Lovely Lemon Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist lemon cake with tangy glaze, perfect for spring gatherings or afternoon tea, featuring bright citrus flavors and a tender crumb that appeals to all ages.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. lemon cake mix
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 pkg. lemon Jell-O
  • 1 c. oil
  • 3/4 c. water
  • 2 c. powdered sugar
  • 1/2 c. lemon juice

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, eggs, lemon Jell-O, oil, and water. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Pour the batter into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
  3. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 minutes.
  4. Remove from oven and pierce the top all over with a fork.
  5. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to make the glaze.
  6. Pour the glaze over the hot cake while it is still in the pan.
  7. Allow the cake to stand so the flavors meld before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff peaks form before gently folding them into the batter. If you don’t have lemon Jell-O, try using a similar flavor or omit it entirely for a more subtle lemon taste. Consider adding lemon zest for extra flavor or substituting the oil with applesauce for a healthier twist, which is great for those exploring vegetarian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a side of Apple Salad With Cheese for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it at gatherings or as a sweet finish to a meal, making it a versatile dessert option for any occasion.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat. This cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months, just ensure it is well wrapped.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lovely Lemon Cake contains roughly 357 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 19g fat.

357 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 19g 24% DV
Carbs 46.6g 17% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 19.8g 40% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 91.9mg 4% DV
Potassium 131.4mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 43mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 47.4mg 4% DV
Iron 0.6mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute the lemon cake mix with vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the lemon Jell-O will still provide that zesty kick, so it will still taste lemony even with a different base.

How can I make this cake more moist?

To enhance moisture, you can add an extra egg or incorporate a 1/4 cup of sour cream or yogurt into the batter. These additions will not only make the cake more moist but will also contribute to a richer flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free lemon cake mix as a substitute for the regular mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the lemon Jell-O and powdered sugar, are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe while accommodating gluten-sensitive individuals.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →