If you’re a fan of tangy yet sweet desserts, this “Lemon Cake to Die For” will instantly become a favorite. With its moist, fluffy texture and zesty lemon glaze that seeps into every bite, this cake is a citrus lover’s dream. Perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or just indulging at home, it’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cake
Bursting with Lemon Flavor: The combination of lemon pudding mix in the cake batter and the citrusy glaze creates a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy.
Moist and Tender: Thanks to the oil and pudding mix, this cake stays incredibly moist.
Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it an accessible treat for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: This recipe uses a boxed cake mix as a base, saving time while still delivering homemade quality.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box of yellow cake mix
1 small box of instant lemon pudding mix (approx. 3.4 oz)
¾ cup of oil
¾ cup of water
4 large eggs, beaten
For the Lemon Glaze:
2 cups of powdered sugar
2 tablespoons of melted butter
2 tablespoons of water
⅓ cup of fresh lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until frothy.
Add the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, oil, and water to the beaten eggs.
Mix until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
While the cake is baking, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, water, and lemon juice in a medium bowl.
Whisk the ingredients together until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: Poke and Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan.
Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
Slowly pour the prepared glaze over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan so the glaze sets.
Slice into squares and serve.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Cake
Zest It Up: Add some lemon zest to the batter or glaze for extra citrusy flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the glaze for the best taste. Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and lack freshness.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to ensure the cake stays light and fluffy.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the eggs come to room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
Garnish with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries to add a touch of color and flavor.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Why This Lemon Cake Works
The addition of instant lemon pudding mix transforms a simple boxed cake into a rich, flavorful dessert. The oil ensures that the cake remains moist, while the glaze infuses the cake with bright citrus notes. Together, these elements create a dessert that’s irresistibly tangy, sweet, and decadent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Use a Lemon Cake Mix Instead of Yellow Cake?
Yes, you can substitute a lemon cake mix for even more lemon flavor.
- How Should I Store the Cake?
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Can I Freeze This Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I Use Butter Instead of Oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used in place of oil, but it may slightly alter the cake’s texture.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 4g
Final Thoughts
This “Lemon Cake to Die For” lives up to its name with every bite. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds.
So, preheat your oven and let the tangy, sweet aroma of lemon fill your kitchen. It’s time to create a dessert masterpiece!