Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunshine, you’ve come to the right place! These Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze are not only buttery and bite-sized but also bursting with a zesty flavor that brightens any occasion. Whether you want a sweet ending to a family dinner or something special for a gathering with friends, these little cakes are sure to make everyone smile.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious cakes before you know it. Plus, they are perfect for making ahead of time, allowing the glaze to set just right!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 37 minutes, including baking time! Perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these mini treats. They’re fun to eat and full of flavor!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them in advance and store them until you’re ready to glaze. They stay fresh and delicious!
• Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing tang that brightens your day.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weekend treat, these mini cakes fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Mini Lemon Cakes

• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 whole egg
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 Tbsp melted butter
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp milk

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add Fresh Berries: Mix in some blueberries or raspberries into the batter for an extra fruity twist.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try substituting lime or orange zest and juice for a different citrus experience.
• Make It Vegan: Swap the egg for flaxseed meal mixed with water and use dairy-free butter and sour cream.
• Change Up the Glaze: Add vanilla extract to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures your mini cakes rise beautifully and bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Spray your mini muffin pans with non-stick spray. This will help your cakes pop out easily once they’re baked!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda. This combines all your dry ingredients evenly, ensuring each cake has the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Melt your butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add water and bring it to a boil. Pour this hot mixture over your dry ingredients; then beat it together until just blended. It’s important not to overmix – we want those lovely little air pockets for fluffiness! Next, incorporate sour cream, egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin pans and bake at 325° for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; once they’re golden brown and spring back when touched lightly in the center, they’re done! Let them cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to cooling racks.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

Allow your mini cakes to cool completely before glazing them. To make the glaze, whisk together all glaze ingredients in a small mixing bowl. If needed, microwave it briefly until thin; this will make dipping easier!

Step 7: Glaze Those Cakes!

Dip each mini cake bottom side down into the glaze. Allow any excess glaze to drip off back into the bowl before flipping them top side down onto cooling racks lined with waxed paper underneath—a handy trick for easy cleanup!

Enjoy sharing these delightful Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze with family and friends—they’re sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze

Making these delightful mini lemon cakes is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons and quality butter can elevate the flavor of your cakes significantly. Fresh ingredients ensure that the taste is vibrant and zesty, which is essential for lemon desserts.
• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Since baking times may vary by oven, it’s always best to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool completely before glazing: Allowing the cakes to cool fully prevents the glaze from melting into the cakes. This ensures you get that beautiful shiny finish on top.
• Experiment with flavors: While these are classic lemon cakes, feel free to add some vanilla extract or other citrus zest (like lime or orange) to give your cakes a unique twist!

How to Serve Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze

These mini lemon cakes not only taste amazing but also look stunning! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully at your next gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and freshness that complements the lemon flavor perfectly.
• Lemon slices: Thinly sliced lemons placed artfully around your serving plate enhance visual appeal and hint at the tartness within.
• Edible flowers: Adding colorful edible flowers can make your presentation even more eye-catching and elegant, perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

• Berry salad: A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries tossed in a light honey-lime dressing brings sweetness and acidity that pairs well with lemon.
• Greek yogurt parfaits: Layered Greek yogurt with granola and honey adds creaminess and crunch alongside your lemony delights—perfect for brunch!
• Coconut whipped cream: Light, fluffy coconut whipped cream makes an excellent dairy-free accompaniment that balances the tartness of the cakes.
• Herbed quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs offers a savory contrast to sweet desserts while still maintaining a wholesome vibe.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Their delightful flavor and moist texture make them an excellent treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover mini lemon cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• If glazed, consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the mini cakes to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the cakes thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
• Enjoy cold or at room temperature; they’re delicious either way!

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use another type of flour for Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly.

How can I make the glaze thicker for my Mini Lemon Cakes?

To achieve a thicker glaze, simply reduce the amount of lemon juice or increase your powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I add other flavors to my Mini Lemon Cakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding poppy seeds, vanilla extract, or even a hint of lavender for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How do I prevent my Mini Lemon Cakes from sticking to the muffin pan?

Make sure to thoroughly spray your muffin pans with non-stick spray. You could also line them with mini cupcake liners for easy removal.

What is the best way to serve Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze?

These mini cakes are fantastic on their own but pair beautifully with fresh berries or whipped coconut cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delicious Mini Lemon Cakes with Lemon Glaze! They are not only simple to make but also burst with refreshing lemon flavor that brightens any day. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a sweet moment to yourself, these little delights are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy baking!