The Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake recipe is a true Southern classic—light, citrusy, and full of charm. This beloved recipe, once served in the White House, brings a touch of history to the table with every slice.

In this post, I’ll show you how to make it step by step, along with tips, variations, and why this cake still stands the test of time.

Table of Contents

How To Make Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe?

Recipe Time & Yield

Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 1 hour
Cool: ~15 minutes
Yield: 12–16 slices, depending on pan size (10″ Bundt gives ~16)

Equipment Needed

10‑inch Bundt pan (or three 9″ round pans)
Stand or hand mixer
Large mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Cooling rack
Sifter or fine sieve

Ingredients

Cake

¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
8 egg yolks (or whole eggs, if preferred).
2½ cups cake flour
3 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest

Lemon Icing

2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup (57 g) butter, room temperature
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon
1–2 tsp heavy cream or milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

I preheat my oven to 325°F (165 °C). I brush the Bundt pan with melted butter, dust it with flour, and tap out the excess.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar

I cream butter and sugar until fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, I beat egg yolks until they’re pale and lemony. Then I fold them into the butter-sugar mix.

4. Dry Ingredients

I sift flour, baking powder, and salt—then sift again for a fine texture.

5. Combine Batter

Alternating, I add dry ingredients in thirds with milk in halves, beginning and ending with flour. I beat well after each addition.

6. Lemon & Vanilla

I stir in vanilla, lemon juice, and zest, then beat 2 minutes until smooth.

7. Bake

I pour batter into my prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake ~1 hour (or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean).

8. Cool

After baking, I let the cake sit 10–15 minutes in the pan, then invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

9. Ice

I whip together icing ingredients—powdered sugar, butter, lemon juice, zest, and cream until thick and pourable—and drizzle over cooled cake.

Nutrition Facts (per slice, ~1/16 cake) Of Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe

Estimated per slice (169 g):

Calories: ~470 kcal
Fat: 17 g (Sat 9 g)
Carbs: 26 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 36 mg
Sodium: 210 mg

Amazing 3 Serving Suggestions Of Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe

1. Afternoon Tea Pairing

Cut a slice; serve with Earl Grey or jasmine tea. The citrus tang brightens each sip.

2. Berries & Cream

Add a spoonful of whipped cream and fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fresh twist.

3. Celebratory Treat

Top with edible flowers or thin lemon slices—this cake’s perfect for bridal showers or spring brunches.

Tips & Variations Of Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe

Use Whole Eggs: Prefer simplicity? Swap egg yolks for 8 whole eggs—some folks swear by it.
Gluten‑Free Swap: Preserves texture by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
Cupcake Version: Bake in lined muffin tins at 350°F for about 25 minutes—adjust time accordingly.
Heat Citrus: Boost lemon flavor with 2 tsp zest and 2 Tbsp juice—fresh zing!

Health Benefits Of Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe

Vitamin C from fresh lemon juice and zest supports immune health.
Egg yolks deliver essential fat-soluble nutrients (A, D, E).
Butter and milk supply calcium and healthy fats in moderation.
Homemade recipe means no preservatives—just real, wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

I love how this Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake recipe blends old‑school charm with bright lemon flavor. It’s rich yet light enough for sharing with friends.

Whether you’re honoring First Lady Bird Johnson’s legacy or baking for Sunday tea, this cake brings joy to every bite. I hope it becomes one of your cherished recipes, too!

Let me know how your cake turns out—or leave a note below if you make a zesty tweak. Happy baking! Thanks for reading this article on the Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake recipe.

Woman Bird Johnson Lemon Cake Recipe: Amazing 3 Serving Suggestions