Easy Lemon Cake
A light, zesty lemon cake with citrus flavors, perfect for spring gatherings or dessert. Easy to prepare with cake mix and lemon pudding for a moist, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the lemon cake mix, salad oil, orange juice or Tang, and instant lemon pudding in a large bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 55 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra zing, consider adding the zest of one lemon to the batter. If you don't have orange juice, you can substitute it with water or any citrus juice. Using a high-quality lemon cake mix will enhance the flavor. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture. Remember, beating the eggs well helps incorporate air for a light cake.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon cake pairs beautifully with Sweet Frosting for a delightful finish. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the citrus flavor perfectly. It also makes a great dessert for gatherings alongside Southern-Style Baked Macaroni And Cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Lemon Cake contains roughly 700 calories, with 4g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 571mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other cake mix flavors such as vanilla or yellow cake mix. However, this will alter the flavor profile of your lemon cake. To maintain a citrus touch, consider adding a bit of lemon juice or zest to the batter, ensuring a bright taste.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking and check every 5 minutes until done.
Can I freeze the lemon cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your lemon cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).