This Lemon Cake to Die For is a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a simple cake mix and an irresistible lemon soaking syrup, this easy-to-make cake bursts with tangy citrus flavor. It’s the ultimate treat for lemon lovers, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert for a family dinner or a show-stopping cake for a special event, this cake is sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
This Lemon Cake to Die For is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a moist, tender yellow cake and infused with a tangy lemon soaking syrup, this cake is bursting with fresh citrus flavor. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this cake a quick favorite that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 box instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
For the Soaking Syrup:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer until well combined. Add the cake mix, lemon pudding mix, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Soaking Syrup: While the cake is baking, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, water, and powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Mix until the syrup is smooth.
- Soak the Cake: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Slowly pour the soaking syrup over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks in evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before serving. Enjoy!
Tips
- For a more intense lemon flavor: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter or the soaking syrup.
- Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Let the cake cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan to prevent it from falling apart when you cut it.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add a glaze: Instead of the soaking syrup, you can drizzle a lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice on top of the cake for a sweet finish.
- Swap out the pudding mix: You can use vanilla pudding mix if you prefer a milder flavor or if lemon pudding mix is unavailable.
- Use a different oil: Swap the vegetable oil for a mild-flavored oil like canola oil, or even use melted coconut oil for a slight coconut flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Just make sure to cover it tightly and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Can I use fresh lemon juice? Yes, fresh lemon juice will work just as well as bottled lemon juice and may add a slightly fresher flavor to the cake.
How do I store leftover cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices or lemon zest for a more decorative touch.
- Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemon-lime soda for a complete lemon-themed meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Cake to Die For is the ultimate treat for lemon lovers. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the soaking syrup, and offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With its quick preparation and easy ingredients, this cake is great for any gathering, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a simple dessert to enjoy after dinner. It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
A Lemon Cake to Die For Recipe
12
servings10
minutes35
minutesIngredients
For the Cake:
1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 box instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz)
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
For the Soaking Syrup:
2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp water
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer until well combined. Add the cake mix, lemon pudding mix, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Soaking Syrup: While the cake is baking, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, water, and powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Mix until the syrup is smooth.
- Soak the Cake: When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Slowly pour the soaking syrup over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks in evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before serving. Enjoy!
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