A Zesty Slice of Sunshine: Texas Lemon Cream Roll Cake Recipe

When the warm Texas sun shines down on you, there’s no better way to embrace the day than with a dessert that matches its brightness. Introducing the Lemon Cream Roll Cake with Glaze, a vibrant treat that captures the essence of Texas citrus and adds a sweet, creamy twist. This cake isn't just a dessert—it's a celebration of flavor that blends tangy lemons with the comfort of a homemade roll cake. Whether you’re in the heart of Houston or enjoying a sunset in Dallas, this cake brings a fresh, zesty taste of the Lone Star State to your table.

Photo byNick Davies

The Texan Twist on a Citrus Classic

This Lemon Cream Roll Cake is more than just a dessert—it's a refreshing burst of citrus balanced by a creamy filling, topped with a silky glaze. In Texas, where lemon trees thrive in the southern regions, it’s easy to understand why this cake is a beloved treat. From backyard BBQs to family gatherings, this lemony delight stands out as a fresh alternative to heavier, traditional desserts.

Bakers across the state are putting their own spin on this roll cake, incorporating locally sourced lemons to give the dessert an authentic Texan flavor. The bright, tangy citrus is complemented by a smooth cream filling, all wrapped in a fluffy, sponge-like cake, and finished off with a sugary glaze that sparkles in the Texas sunlight.

Recipe: Texan Lemon Cream Roll Cake with Glaze

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup lemon curd
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly greasing it.
2. Make the Sponge Cake: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth it out. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden. Once baked, immediately roll the cake in a clean kitchen towel and let it cool completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Filling: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the whipped cream and lemon curd.
5. Assemble the Cake: Unroll the cooled sponge cake and spread the lemon cream filling evenly across the surface. Gently roll the cake back up and place it seam-side down.
6. Make the Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over the roll cake.
7. Chill and Serve: Allow the cake to chill for at least an hour before slicing into it.

Bringing the Lone Star State to Your Dessert Table

There’s something about the combination of bright citrus and smooth cream that feels right in the heat of Texas. Whether you're enjoying this cake on a hot summer day or serving it at a cozy family gathering, the Lemon Cream Roll Cake adds a burst of freshness to any occasion. The tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the rich cream, offering a balance of flavors that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity—it’s light, refreshing, and easy to prepare, yet it brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The sweet glaze on top adds just the right amount of indulgence, making each slice feel like a little piece of Texas sunshine. So, whether you’re a local or just someone with a love for all things citrus, this Lemon Cream Roll Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Sources:

• (optimal recipes)​(My Country Table)
• My Country Table - Lemon Cake Roll