Lemon Drop Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Cuisine: American

A zesty lemon-flavored cake featuring bright citrus notes and moist texture, perfect for gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a sweet, tangy dessert favorite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box Duncan Hines Deluxe lemon cake mix
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 package lemon Jell-O
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 1/4 cups water

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and mix well.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
  4. Remove from oven, prick the cake all over with a fork, and pour the topping over immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can substitute the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. If you want to enhance the lemon flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the batter. Ensure you mix the Jell-O thoroughly to avoid clumps. This cake pairs wonderfully with Grandma'S Homemade Ice Cream for a delightful dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon Drop Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish. It pairs well with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider drizzling a lemon glaze over the top. This cake is a delightful addition to brunch or dessert tables, complementing dishes like Mama'S 7-Up Salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Lemon Drop Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until warmed through, being careful not to dry it out. Alternatively, serve it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Drop Cake contains roughly 868 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 78g fat.

868 kcal 43% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.5g 7% DV
Total Fat 78.2g 100% DV
Carbs 41.4g 15% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 141.1mg 6% DV
Potassium 270mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 129mg 43% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.5mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 117mg 9% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with any flavored cake mix, but keep in mind that the overall lemon flavor will change. A vanilla or yellow cake mix works well if you want a more subtle taste. Just adjust the Jell-O flavor accordingly to maintain a citrus profile.

What can I use instead of lemon Jell-O?

If you don't have lemon Jell-O, you can use an equivalent amount of lemon pudding mix or even a homemade lemon syrup for a fresh taste. Just ensure it maintains the sweetness and acidity to complement the cake's flavor.

How can I make this cake more decadent?

To elevate the cake, consider adding a cream cheese frosting or a lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice. You can also layer the cake with fresh berries or serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream for added richness and flavor.

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).

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