Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!

Name: Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:56:54.489Z

These delightful treats are perfect for any gathering, and they disappeared before I could even enter them into the contest!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor and freshness
Easy to make and quick to disappear
Ideal for sharing at any event

      

A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

These delightful treats are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a church potluck, family barbecue, or birthday celebration. Their light and fluffy texture, combined with a zesty lemon topping, makes them a hit with both kids and adults. The vibrant flavors will leave your guests raving, and you might just find that they disappear faster than you can serve them.

What makes these treats even more appealing is their versatility. Feel free to modify the topping or add in your favorite mix-ins, such as berries or chocolate chips, to create your own unique spin. They're as delicious as they are adaptable, ensuring that you can enjoy them throughout the year, no matter the season or occasion.

Easy Steps to Deliciousness

Making these treats is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time. The combination of wet and dry ingredients comes together seamlessly, creating a batter that's both easy to mix and delightful to bake. Even novice bakers will find success with this straightforward recipe.

Once you master the basic recipe, you can experiment with different flavors and toppings. Consider incorporating citrus zest or spices to enhance the taste further. The options are endless, and each variation offers a chance to impress your friends and family with your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Sharing

These treats are ideal for sharing at any event. Their individual servings make them easy to hand out, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or attending one, bringing these treats ensures that you’ll have something delicious to share. The bright lemon topping adds an attractive finish, making them not only tasty but visually appealing.

Additionally, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen. Simply bake, cool, and drizzle the topping before you head out, and you’ll be ready to impress with minimal effort. Your friends will be asking for the recipe before the evening ends!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

Mix and match ingredients for your perfect flavor profile!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare Topping

While the cake is baking, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool before drizzling the topping over it. Cut into servings and enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor!

Variations You Can Try

While the classic lemon topping is a fan favorite, there are numerous ways to switch things up. Try substituting orange juice and zest for a citrus twist that’s equally refreshing. Alternatively, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate ganache to elevate the flavor profile and presentation.

For a more decadent treat, you can also experiment with cream cheese frosting instead of the lemon glaze. This rich, tangy topping pairs well with the light cake base and adds a creamy texture that complements the overall dish perfectly.

Storage Tips

To keep your treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors will be more pronounced when they’re not chilled.

If you have leftovers, you can also freeze the unglazed cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature and add your lemon glaze for a fresh taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option.

→ How long can I store these treats?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and they can last up to a month in the freezer.