Go Back
Homemade Easy Lemon Cake with Marshmallow Frosting + Toasted Coconut. recipe photo

Easy Lemon Cake with Marshmallow Frosting + Toasted Coconut.

This Easy Lemon Cake is a zesty delight! Topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and toasted coconut, it's perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cake, Easy, Frosting, Lemon, Toasted Coconut
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 lemons zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
  • 3 tablespoons milk

For the Marshmallow Frosting:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for frosting)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened flaked coconut (toasted if desired)

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
    Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them lightly with butter and dusting with flour to prevent sticking.
  • Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled unsalted butter with the granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
  • Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  • Step 5: Bake the Cake
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  • Step 6: Make the Marshmallow Frosting
    In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and cream of tartar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  • Step 7: Frost the Cake
    Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of marshmallow frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
  • Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
    Slice the cake into pieces and serve it to your eagerly awaiting guests. Watch as they delight in the sweet and zesty flavors of this Easy Lemon Cake with Marshmallow Frosting + Toasted Coconut.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch round cake pans
  • Cooling rack
  • Spatula

Notes

  • Make sure your butter is cooled before adding it to the batter to avoid cooking the eggs.
  • Room temperature eggs and butter help create a smoother batter.
  • To toast coconut, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
  • If you want to prep ahead, the cakes can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
QR Code linking back to recipe