Name: Lemon Cake To Die For
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (for the cake); 1 box instant lemon pudding mix (for the cake); 2/3 cup vegetable oil (for the cake); 3 large eggs (for the cake); 2/3 cup water (for the cake); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cake); 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for the cake); 2 cups powdered sugar (for the glaze); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for the glaze); 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for the glaze); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (for the glaze); Pinch lemon zest (for the glaze)

This Lemon Cake is a luscious combination of citrusy brightness and tender, moist texture. With a refreshing lemon glaze poured over a warm cake, each bite is bursting with fresh lemon flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with a light, tangy, and absolutely irresistible dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cake:

Zesty and Tangy Flavor: The addition of lemon zest and juice makes every bite deliciously citrusy and refreshing.
Moist and Tender Texture: Using a boxed cake mix and pudding mix guarantees a soft, moist cake every time.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake comes together quickly.
Versatile Dessert: This cake works wonderfully for any occasion, from birthdays to brunch gatherings.
Beautiful Glaze: The lemon glaze adds a gorgeous finish and an extra layer of flavor that takes this cake to the next level.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away!

Key Ingredients:

1. Yellow Cake Mix

Base for Ease and Consistency: A boxed yellow cake mix provides a reliable, soft base that’s easy to enhance with additional flavors.
Flavor Boosts: The added lemon pudding mix and zest will make the cake taste homemade and give it a bright citrus flavor.
Alternative: You can also use a lemon-flavored cake mix if you want an extra lemony punch.

2. Instant Lemon Pudding Mix

Keeps the Cake Moist: Adding pudding mix to the batter ensures a tender, moist texture.
Enhances Lemon Flavor: It also intensifies the lemon flavor, making the cake taste vibrant and fresh.
Tip: Make sure to use instant pudding mix rather than cook-and-serve, as instant mixes better with the other ingredients.

3. Lemon Zest and Fresh Lemon Juice

Adds Freshness: Lemon zest in the batter and lemon juice in the glaze provide a pure, tangy flavor that only fresh lemon can offer.
Zesting Tip: When zesting, avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter. Use a fine grater or microplane to get only the vibrant yellow zest.

4. Heavy Cream for the Glaze

Creates a Smooth Texture: Heavy cream adds richness to the glaze and helps it set with a silky finish.
Substitutions: If you prefer, you can use milk instead, but heavy cream creates a thicker, richer glaze.

5. Powdered Sugar for the Glaze

Perfectly Sweet: Powdered sugar dissolves easily, creating a smooth, pourable glaze.
Adjusting Consistency: For a thinner glaze, add a little extra lemon juice; for a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix, lemon pudding mix, oil, eggs, water, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
Mix: Stir the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix for a tender cake texture.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly on a wire rack, which helps it set and makes it easier to glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more lemon juice if needed for a pourable glaze.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Glaze the Cake: Pour the glaze over the warm cake, spreading it evenly. Let the glaze set slightly before slicing and serving.
Serve: Enjoy your lemon cake warm or at room temperature for a deliciously tangy treat.

Serving Suggestions:

Take this Lemon Cake to the next level with these serving ideas:

Serve with Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and balances the citrusy flavor.
Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy, light contrast to the tangy cake.
Pair with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: If you prefer a little less glaze, dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

This cake is perfect for making ahead and can be stored easily:

Room Temperature: Cover the cake tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh glaze before serving.
Make-Ahead Option: Bake the cake a day ahead and glaze just before serving for optimal freshness.

Variations to Try:

Switch things up with these fun variations to make this Lemon Cake your own:

Blueberry Lemon Cake: Add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic combination.
Coconut Lemon Cake: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical take on this lemon cake.
Lemon Drizzle Cake: For a more subtle topping, skip the glaze and drizzle a simple lemon syrup (lemon juice and sugar) over the warm cake.

Conclusion:

This Lemon Cake To Die For is the ultimate dessert for lemon lovers! Its soft, moist texture combined with a bright lemon glaze makes every bite tangy and delightful. Simple to make and absolutely delicious, it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering or family meal. Enjoy each refreshing, citrusy slice!