Lemon Bundt Cake

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dessert that sings with sunshine and zest, look no further than this luscious Lemon Bundt Cake. Bursting with citrus flavor, this cake combines the convenience of a cake mix with a rich, homemade taste. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a springtime celebration, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. The creamy lemon glaze drizzled on top adds the final touch, making this cake not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen smell like a lemon orchard!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Lemon Bundt Cake is not just another cake; it’s a celebration of flavors. The combination of lemon cake mix and instant lemon pudding creates a moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Topped with a creamy lemon glaze, this cake is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. It is easy to make, requires minimal effort, and brings a burst of flavor that will leave your guests raving. Plus, with the addition of sour cream, it adds a delightful richness that elevates the overall taste. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this cake will surely impress.

Gather These Ingredients

To create this zesty masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 standard size package lemon cake mix
• 1 cup sour cream (regular or full-fat works best)
• 1 (3.4 oz) size package instant lemon pudding mix (just the dry mix!)
• 1 cup oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon pure lemon extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened (1/2 stick)
• 2 teaspoons pure lemon extract
• 3 1/2 – 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1-3 tablespoons milk
• 1-3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

What’s in the Gear List

Before we get started, make sure you have the following tools handy:

• Bundt cake pan – this is essential for that classic shape.
• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer – to ensure a smooth batter.
• Spatula – for scraping down the sides and folding in ingredients.
• Cooling rack – to cool the cake before glazing.

Cooking Lemon Bundt Cake: The Process

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your Lemon Bundt Cake.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect baking environment for your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Grease your bundt pan with butter or baking spray, making sure to cover all the crevices. This helps the cake release easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, sour cream, instant lemon pudding mix, oil, eggs, warm water, lemon zest, and lemon extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until well blended and smooth.

Step 4: Pour into the Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the cake is cooling, let’s prepare the glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the confectioners sugar, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Allow it to drip down the sides for that beautiful presentation. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for added flair.

Dietary Customizations

If you’re looking to customize this Lemon Bundt Cake, here are some options:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and use dairy-free butter.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of confectioners sugar in the glaze or use a sugar substitute.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese and butter.

What I Learned Testing

Through my journey of testing this Lemon Bundt Cake, I discovered some delightful tips:

• Adding the warm water helps to create a moist cake, so don’t skip this step!
• Using full-fat sour cream really enhances the richness and flavor.
• Letting the cake cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting off.
• Experimenting with the glaze consistency can yield different looks – a thicker glaze for a rustic touch or a thinner one for a more elegant finish.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Lemon Bundt Cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Refrigerator: If you prefer a chilled cake, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
• Freezer: This cake freezes wonderfully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of a store-bought one?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade lemon cake recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure that you keep the proportions similar for the best results.

What can I substitute for the cream cheese in the glaze?

If you want a lighter glaze or need a dairy-free option, you can use cashew cream, silken tofu, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How can I make this cake more lemony?

To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding more lemon zest or using freshly squeezed lemon juice in both the batter and glaze. You can also add a bit of lemon juice to the cake batter for an extra zing.

Can I make mini bundt cakes with this recipe?

Yes! This recipe can be adapted for mini bundt pans. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Reader Favorites

If you’re looking for more lemony delights, check out these reader favorites:

• Lemon Glazed Zucchini Bread Muffins
• No Bake Lemon Icebox Cake

Make It Tonight

There’s no better time than now to whip up this Lemon Bundt Cake. It’s a simple recipe that yields impressive results, perfect for impressing your family and friends. The bright lemon flavor and the creamy glaze will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients and gear, and let’s create a cake that brings joy and sweetness to your table!

This Lemon Bundt Cake is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with flavor and memories. Enjoy every slice!