Tangy Lemon Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A light and tangy lemon cake featuring the bright flavors of lemon extract and creamy yogurt, perfect for dessert or teatime. Its moist texture and zesty taste make it a delightful treat for lemon lovers and suitable for casual gatherings or family desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. light white cake mix
  • 8 oz. plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp. lemon extract
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3/4 cup cholesterol free egg product or 3 eggs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Grease and flour a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
  3. Put all ingredients in a bowl and mix well for 2 to 3 minutes.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure your yogurt is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a subtle flavor twist. If you don't have lemon extract, fresh lemon juice can work in a pinch, but reduce the water slightly. For added zest, consider incorporating lemon zest into the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Tangy Lemon Cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple lemon glaze. Serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect addition to afternoon gatherings. For a more indulgent dessert, consider serving alongside a slice of Dreamy Pumpkin Pie.

Storage & Reheating

Once the cake is completely cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tangy Lemon Cake contains roughly 127 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.

127 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 4.8g 6% DV
Carbs 19.8g 7% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 100.1mg 4% DV
Potassium 123.5mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 47.7mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 55.5mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 58.2mg 4% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk 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 type of cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different cake mixes, but keep in mind that flavor profiles will change. A vanilla or even a lemon cake mix would complement the lemon flavor well. Just ensure the mix is light and fluffy for the best results.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this cake gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the yogurt, are also gluten-free. The baking time may remain similar, but always check for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I make this cake more moist?

For an even moister cake, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of yogurt or a few tablespoons of applesauce to the batter. Additionally, you can brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water to enhance moisture.

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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