This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemons with the sweetness of ripe raspberries. Perfect for any occasion, this cake features a crumbly streusel topping that adds texture and richness. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just want to indulge in something sweet, this cake will impress your guests and have them asking for the recipe!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake Base
- For the Crumb Topping
- How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Add Lemon Flavor
- Step 6: Prepare Raspberries
- Step 7: Make Streusel Topping
- Step 8: Bake Your Cake
- How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream
- Garnished with Mint Leaves
- Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- Served with Fresh Berries
- Paired with Herbal Tea
- How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make the Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping gluten-free?
- Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
- What can I replace sour cream with in this recipe?
- How do I enhance the lemon flavor?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can bake this cake without any hassle.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The balance of zesty lemon and juicy raspberries creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for dessert.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering, this cake fits right in.
- Beautiful Presentation: The bright colors of the raspberries and golden crumb topping make for an eye-catching dessert.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and butter, every slice is delightfully moist.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and ensures better results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time by thoroughly mixing ingredients quickly and effortlessly.
- Springform pan: Ideal for cakes with delicate toppings, it allows easy removal without damaging the cake.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
This easy Lemon Raspberry Cake is topped with delicious streusel and filled with juicy raspberries! Your guests will be begging you for the recipe.
For the Cake Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 large lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
For the Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350˚F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add:
– eggs,
– sour cream,
– vanilla extract.
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Combine cake flour,
2. baking powder,
3. baking soda,
4. salt.
Add this mixture to your batter and whisk until just combined.
Step 5: Add Lemon Flavor
Stir in:
– lemon juice,
– freshly grated lemon zest.
Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 6: Prepare Raspberries
Pour batter into prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Top with:
– Freshly washed raspberries.
Ensure they are distributed in a single layer for even baking.
Step 7: Make Streusel Topping
To prepare the streusel:
1. In a bowl, combine:
– all-purpose flour,
– sugar,
– lemon zest,
– butter.
-
Mix for 2-3 minutes until fully combined; it should resemble crumbly dough.
-
Distribute the streusel evenly over the raspberries.
Step 8: Bake Your Cake
Bake for about 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before removing the springform ring. Allow your cake to cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Serving your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping can elevate the experience for your guests. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, these serving suggestions will ensure your cake gets the attention it deserves.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the cake.
Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cake, making for a delightful dessert pairing.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a refreshing flavor contrast.
Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice brings an extra zing to each slice.
Served with Fresh Berries
- Additional fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side complement the flavors and make for an attractive presentation.
Paired with Herbal Tea
- A cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, creates a soothing experience that pairs well with the citrus notes of the cake.

How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
To achieve the best results with your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake, consider these helpful tips.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation and texture.
-
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
-
Fresh Raspberries Are Key: Use fresh raspberries for optimal flavor; frozen ones can make the batter too wet.
-
Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your cake around 50 minutes; every oven varies slightly in baking time.
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Let Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool fully helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.
-
Experiment with Citrus Zest: Try adding orange or lime zest for a unique twist on flavor in your cake.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Enhance your dessert table by pairing your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:
-
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast.
-
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses like brie and goat cheese offers rich flavors that balance the sweetness of the cake.
-
Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows makes for an indulgent treat alongside your cake.
-
Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet echoes the flavors in your cake, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
-
Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer a nutty crunch that pairs nicely against the soft crumb topping.
-
Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts adds a savory element that contrasts beautifully with sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a delightful dessert like the Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
-
Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
-
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can make the cake tough. Blend until just combined for a light and airy texture.
-
Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour results in a dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method to accurately measure your flour.
-
Ignoring oven calibration: Every oven is different. Always check if your oven temperature is accurate for even baking.
-
Crowding the raspberries: Placing too many raspberries in one spot may cause sogginess. Distribute them evenly to maintain a nice texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- The Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Keep it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- You can freeze this cake for up to 3 months.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm each slice gently for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping gluten-free?
You can substitute regular cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first, as excess moisture may affect the cake’s texture.
What can I replace sour cream with in this recipe?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for sour cream while adding creaminess and tanginess.
How do I enhance the lemon flavor?
For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest or add more lemon juice according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different fruits or spices. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping. Combining the zing of fresh lemons with the sweetness of ripe raspberries, this cake is perfect for any gathering, from birthday celebrations to casual brunches. The moist cake base, enriched by sour cream, is topped with a buttery streusel that adds a satisfying crunch. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma will have your guests clamoring for the recipe. This simple yet elegant dessert not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- For crumb topping: 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla; mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest before folding in raspberries gently.
- For the crumb topping, mix flour, sugar, lemon zest, and butter until crumbly; sprinkle over batter.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg