Name: Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp baking soda; Pinch of salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup water; ¼ cup sour cream (at room temperature); 1 large egg (at room temperature); Zest from 1 lemon; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; 4 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp butter (softened to room temperature); 1 tbsp lemon zest

If you’re looking for a bright, zesty treat that bursts with fresh citrus charm, this Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe is an absolute must-try. These tiny delights pack all the sunshine of a classic lemon cake into perfectly bite-sized portions, making them ideal for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply whenever you crave something sweet and tangy. The balance of tart lemon zest and smooth, buttery cake is simply irresistible, and the lemon glaze adds that perfect finishing touch that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with several layers of ingredients. At the bottom is a smooth, light yellow batter with a slightly thick texture. On top of that, near the center, is a whole raw egg yolk with a bright yellow-orange color. Next to the egg yolk is a dollop of white creamy material with a soft, fluffy texture. Sprinkled over parts of the batter and near the cream are small amounts of a brownish powder, adding specks of color. A silver electric mixer with whisk attachments is held above the bowl by a woman's hand, ready to blend the layers together. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe plays a vital role, from creating a tender crumb to delivering that signature lemon pop that makes these cakes so memorable. You’ll find the list refreshingly simple yet thoughtfully chosen to bring out the best in every bite.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cakes, providing structure without heaviness.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while balancing the tartness of lemon.
Baking soda: Ensures the cakes rise beautifully and develop a light texture.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
Unsalted butter: Offers richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Water: Helps dissolve ingredients and creates steam that keeps the cakes moist.
Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that complements the lemon.
Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds structure while enriching flavor.
Lemon zest: Provides concentrated lemon oils that deliver vibrant citrus aroma.
Lemon juice: Infuses fresh lemon flavor and helps activate the baking soda.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, subtle sweetness.
Powdered sugar: The base for the glaze, for that smooth and sweet coating.
Butter (for glaze): Adds silkiness and richness to the lemon glaze.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and greasing your mini muffin tin with non-stick spray. This ensures your Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe will have a perfect, golden exterior and won’t stick when you try to take them out.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stirring these together helps distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly, setting the stage for a consistent and tasty cake.

Step 3: Make the Butter-Water Mixture

Melt your butter in a saucepan and add water, bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring. This hot mixture is then poured over the dry ingredients to create a surprisingly moist batter that gives the cakes an irresistible texture.

Step 4: Beat and Combine

Using an electric mixer on low speed, beat the mixture just to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Then add sour cream, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing gently to maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can make cakes tough, so be careful here.

Step 5: Bake the Mini Cakes

Fill each mini muffin cup about one tablespoon full and bake for 12 to 16 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when they turn a lovely golden color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Allow your mini cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled to room temperature, dip them or drizzle the lemon glaze made from powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and softened butter. This glaze adds a shiny, tangy, and sweet finish.

How to Serve Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe

The image shows small round yellow cakes arranged on a black cooling rack over a white marbled surface. Some cakes are plain with a smooth golden-yellow surface, while a few have a shiny white glaze on top that covers the whole upper layer, creating a soft, smooth texture. The cakes are evenly spaced and look fresh and light. On the left side of the image, there is a metallic bowl partially in frame containing a creamy white mixture, adding contrast. The background includes a soft gray cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The simplest way to elevate these mini cakes is with a little extra lemon zest sprinkled on top or a thin lemon slice for decoration. If you want a touch of color, fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries make the perfect companion and add a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

Mini Lemon Drop Cakes are excellent alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee, especially during afternoon gatherings. For brunch, pair them with fresh fruit platters or a light salad to keep the meal feeling fresh and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these beauties on a tiered dessert stand for parties, or place each cake in colorful paper liners for a festive touch. You can even drizzle additional glaze in artistic zigzags on the plate or dust a little powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers, no worries! Store your mini cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness and texture without drying them out.

Freezing

Mini Lemon Drop Cakes freeze beautifully. Just wrap them individually or in batches tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then pop them in the freezer for up to two months. They’ll be ready for a quick thaw when you want that lemony goodness again.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen mini cakes, thaw them at room temperature for around 30 minutes. Warm them gently in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes if you like them slightly warm and freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice and zest?

While lemon extract can add lemon flavor, it doesn’t provide the fresh, bright zest and acidity that makes this Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe so special. For best results, stick to fresh lemon juice and zest.

Are these cakes gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary in texture.

How do I make sure the cakes are moist and not dry?

Using sour cream and not overmixing the batter helps keep the cakes moist. Also, avoid overbaking them by checking with a toothpick toward the end of the baking time.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! This Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe scales well, just be sure to adjust your baking time slightly and use multiple pans if needed to avoid overcrowding your oven.

What’s the best tool to glaze the cakes?

You can dip the cakes directly into the glaze for full coverage or use a small spoon to drizzle it on. Both methods work wonderfully depending on how much glaze you prefer.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking and sharing these Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe treats. They capture that perfect sunny lemon flavor in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth package that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day. I encourage you to give this recipe a go—the ease, the flavor, and the smile it brings are truly worth every bite.

Mini Lemon Drop Cakes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need