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Portillo's Lemon Cake Recipe

Portillo’s Lemon Cake Recipe

Lipia
Recreate the magic of Portillo's Lemon Cake at home with this easy recipe! Fluffy lemon cake layers are frosted with a tangy lemon glaze, capturing the signature Portillo's flavor. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon pick-me-up.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Zester
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • Juice of 2 lemons

For the glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until evenly incorporated into the batter.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes (for the 9×13-inch pan) or 25-30 minutes (for round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  • Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  • Poke holes all over the top of the cake using a skewer or fork, then pour the glaze evenly over the warm cake.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Keyword Portillo’s Lemon Cake Recipe