If you’re wondering if this treat tastes as amazing as it sounds, let me tell you—it does! I’ve tried a few different “butter cake” recipes over the years, and while I enjoyed them all, I’ve never been obsessed with any of them until this one. The Lemon Buttercake. It’s a simple batter with a simple cream cheese topping, but it bakes up into something wonderfully delicious.

It’s juicy, thick, and full of lemon flavor. I cannot stress enough how important it is that you make this dish as soon as possible. You’ll start with the cake batter. It’s created with all of the normal baking ingredients, plus the zest of two lemons and the juice of one. Transfer the batter to a cake round or pie dish, and set away while you prepare the cream layer.

Mix a softened block of cream cheese until smooth, then add the powdered sugar, egg, and zest from the second lemon. Pour the cream over the batter and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top turns brown. Allow the cake to cool completely and set before slicing.

I understand it’s difficult, but it’s worth the wait! Lemon-flavored desserts often make me think of summer, but this dessert is guaranteed to be popular year-round. Whether it’s for a holiday breakfast, a church potluck, or an after-dinner dessert, expect people to admire you and ask for the recipe. Luckily, it is simple enough for everyone to create!