Sour cream lemon pound cake is a rich, moist dessert that blends the tanginess of sour cream with the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon.
The sour ream lemon pound cake has a dense, tender crumb that makes sour cream lemon pound cake a comforting treat for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or weekend indulgence.
The main purpose of creating this sour cream lemon pound cake is to offer a dessert that balances sweetness and citrusy freshness while remaining soft and buttery.
Traditionally, pound cakes date back to 18th-century Europe, made with equal parts butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This version introduces sour cream and lemon for a modern, flavorful twist.
The following steps show how to prepare this sour cream lemon pound cake along with serving ideas, tips, health benefits, extra delicious variations, preservation methods, and answers to common questions.
Why Peoples Like Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake Recipe?
People enjoy sour cream lemon pound cake for several reasons. The cake is incredibly moist and tender because sour cream adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
The fresh lemon juice and zest give a bright, refreshing flavor that cuts through the dense texture of a traditional pound cake, making sour ream lemon pound cake slice feel light yet indulgent.
Sour ream lemon pound cake buttery taste and soft crumb create a comforting experience, while the glaze adds a sweet, slightly tart finish.
This sour cream lemon pound cake is versatile, appealing to both those who enjoy classic desserts and those who appreciate a citrus twist in their baked treats.
How To Prepare Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake?
To make this sour cream lemon pound cake perfectly, follow each step carefully. I’ve provided clear instructions and tips to help you achieve a moist, flavorful cake every time.
Simple kitchen tools are all that’s needed, though certain items can make the process easier. Even without every tool, you can still bake a delicious, tangy, tender lemon cake.
Recipe Preparation Details
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Zester or grater
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Cooling rack
- Small bowl for glaze
- Sifter

Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest (packed)
- 1 cup buttermilk (low-fat is fine)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
How to Make Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour, or line it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Keep this mixture aside for later.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until the texture becomes light and airy, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two and starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently on low speed until just combined to avoid over mixing.
5. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, and then move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and melted butter, whisking until smooth. Add more lemon juice if needed to reach the desired consistency.
7. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before cutting and serving.
Special Notes: For extra lemon flavor, add ½ teaspoon of lemon extract. Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If using a loaf pan, baking time may vary slightly check doneness with a toothpick.
Nutrition Facts Of Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 57g |
| Sugar | 36g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sour cream lemon pound cake stands out for its moist, tender texture and vibrant, tangy flavor. The sour cream keeps the cake soft while adding a subtle richness, and the fresh lemon juice and zest brighten every slice.
The balance between sweetness and citrus makes it refreshing yet comforting, appealing to many tastes. It is easy to prepare, using simple ingredients found in most kitchens, and the glaze adds an extra touch of flavor without being overwhelming.
The sour ream lemon pound cake slices beautifully, holds well, and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.
Why My Recipe Works
This sour cream lemon pound cake recipe works because of the balance between wet and dry ingredients, which creates a tender, moist crumb.
Sour cream adds richness and acidity that reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise perfectly. Beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy incorporates air, giving the cake structure while keeping it soft.
Alternating the addition of flour and sour cream-buttermilk ensures even mixing without overworking the batter, preventing a dense texture.
The fresh lemon juice and zest provide natural flavor, while the glaze adds sweetness and a slight tang, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
Serving Ideas This Recipe
1. Fresh Berries Platter: Arrange slices on a plate with a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the fruit complements the tangy lemon flavor, creating a vibrant and refreshing bite.
2. Whipped Cream or Creamy Yogurt: Add a generous dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt on top of each slice. The creaminess balances the cake’s citrus notes and enhances the moist texture.
3. With Ice Cream: Serve slices slightly warm alongside a scoop of ice cream. Vanilla, lemon, or mixed berry flavors pair beautifully, turning the cake into a decadent dessert.
4. Tea or Coffee Companion: Present the cake as part of an afternoon tea spread or with a steaming cup of coffee. The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the butter and sour cream, making each sip and bite harmonious.
5. Layered Dessert Trifle: Cube the cake and layer it in a glass dish with lemon curd and whipped cream. This presentation is visually appealing and adds textural contrast, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Variations Of Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
1. Blueberry Lemon Pound Cake: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist.
2. Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds into the batter for a fun, crunchy texture. Top with a glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar.
3. Lemon Coconut Pound Cake: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical variation that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
4. Chocolate Chip Lemon Pound Cake: For those who love chocolate, fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips. The combination of chocolate and lemon is surprisingly delicious!
5. Almond Lemon Pound Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract in place of the vanilla extract for a subtle almond flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon.
How To Make More Delicious
1. Add Lemon Extract: Boost the lemon flavor by adding a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.
2. Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Fresh zest from ripe lemons will give the cake a vibrant, aromatic flavor that dried zest can’t match.
3. Incorporate Blueberries: Gently fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
4. Make a Lemon Syrup: Drizzle a simple lemon syrup over the warm cake to infuse it with more citrus sweetness and moisture.
5. Top with Candied Lemon Peel: For an elegant finish, top the cake with thin strips of candied lemon peel for a sweet, crunchy contrast.
Expert Tips For Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
1. Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to create a smoother, fluffier batter.
2. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to prevent a dense cake.
3. Only use the yellow part of the peel for zest to avoid the bitter white pith.
4. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s done.
5. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Keep it covered at room temperature.
Storage Instructions
To store sour cream lemon pound cake, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container.
At room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for two to three days. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to one week, allowing it to come to room temperature before serving.
The sour cream lemon pound cake can also be frozen for up to two months by wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil. If already glazed, store in a single layer to prevent the topping from sticking.
FAQs About Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
Can I use low-fat sour cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat sour cream, though it may slightly alter the texture. The cake may be a bit less rich, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve overnight!
How can I make the glaze thicker?
To make the glaze thicker, simply add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Can I use a different type of fruit instead of lemon?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits, like orange or lime, to create variations of this pound cake with different flavors.
Conclusion
This sour cream lemon pound cake is a recipe that everyone enjoys, with its moist texture and bright, tangy flavor making it a favorite at any table.
I created this sour cream lemon pound cake for special serving moments, and every time I make it, I take pleasure in the process and the smiles it brings. By sharing my easy, step-by-step method, I hope to inspire you to try making it yourself.
The simple ingredients and approachable technique allow anyone to create a sour cream lemon pound cake that is delicious and memorable, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Sour Cream Lemon Pound Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Zester or grater
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Cooling rack
- Small bowl (for glaze)
- Sifter
Ingredients Â
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 sticks 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest packed
- 1 cup buttermilk low-fat is fine
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1½ cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2 –3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
InstructionsÂ
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour, or line it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Keep this mixture aside for later.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until the texture becomes light and airy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two and starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently on low speed until just combined to avoid over mixing.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, and then move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and melted butter, whisking until smooth. Add more lemon juice if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before cutting and serving.