This Ritz-Carlton Lemon Pound Cake is pure elegance in dessert form — a recipe that’s been cherished for decades by guests of the luxury hotel chain. Tender, buttery, and delicately tangy, it captures that signature blend of sophistication and comfort the Ritz-Carlton is known for.
The balance of fresh lemon juice, zest, and rich butter gives this cake its iconic golden crumb and subtle citrus aroma. It’s a simple recipe with stunning results — perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or an effortlessly refined dessert.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Buttery & rich: The perfect classic pound cake texture.
- Bright lemon flavor: Fresh juice and zest bring the perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
- Versatile: Delicious plain, dusted with sugar, or topped with berries and whipped cream.
- Timeless luxury: A hotel-quality dessert that feels special but is easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup salted butter, softened at room temperature
- ½ cup shortening
- 3 cups white sugar
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6½ tbsps freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest from one lemon
- Confectioners’ sugar (optional, for dusting)
How to Make the Ritz-Carlton's Lemon Pound Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan to ensure an easy release.
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy — about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest for that signature citrus flavor.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before running a knife around the edges and inverting it onto a cooling rack. Cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar for a classic finish.
How to Store
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can keep it covered in the fridge for up to 1 week. Warm slices in the microwave for 10 seconds for that “freshly baked” feel.
How to Freeze
Cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsalted butter instead?
Yes — just add ¼ teaspoon of salt to balance the flavor.
What makes this cake so moist?
The combination of butter, shortening, and milk creates a rich, tender crumb that keeps the cake soft for days.
Can I make this with other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Try orange juice and zest for a sunny twist, or lime for a tropical note.
Should I glaze it instead of using powdered sugar?
You can make a quick lemon glaze by whisking 1 cup confectioners’ sugar with 2–3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Why use both lemon juice and zest?
The juice adds tangy brightness, while the zest enhances aroma and depth of flavor — together they create that signature Ritz-Carlton citrus richness.
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