A dessert that’s zesty, moist, and utterly irresistible, this Lemon Cake to Die For is the perfect blend of tart lemon flavor and sweet glaze. Quick to prepare and bursting with citrus goodness, it’s a treat you’ll crave time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Lemon Flavor: The combination of lemon pudding and a tangy glaze ensures every bite is citrusy perfection.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a cake mix for ease.

Effortlessly Moist: The pudding mix and glaze ensure the cake stays soft and tender.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or celebration, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box of yellow cake mix
1 small box of instant lemon pudding mix
3/4 cup of oil

3/4 cup of water
4 beaten eggs
2 cups of powdered sugar

2 tablespoons of melted butter
2 tablespoons of water
1/3 cup of lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the cake mix, lemon pudding mix, oil, and water. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake bakes, mix the powdered sugar, melted butter, water, and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 5 minutes. Then, poke holes all over the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon.

Pour the glaze over the warm cake, spreading it to ensure it seeps into the holes.

Serve

Let the cake cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Lemon-Blueberry Cake: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and pudding mix for a gluten-free version.
Extra Glaze: Double the glaze recipe for an even more indulgent treat.

Layered Cake: Bake the batter in two 8-inch round pans and layer with lemon frosting for a more elegant presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a white cake mix instead of yellow?

Yes, a white cake mix works just as well, though the cake’s flavor may be slightly less rich.

2. What if I don’t have lemon pudding mix?

Vanilla pudding mix can be used as a substitute, but the lemon flavor will be milder.

3. Can I make the glaze less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar to 1 1/2 cups for a slightly less sweet glaze.

4. Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.

5. How can I prevent the glaze from pooling on top?

Ensure the holes in the cake are deep and evenly spaced to help the glaze absorb fully.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

7. How do I ensure my cake is moist?

Be sure not to overbake the cake, and poke plenty of holes to allow the glaze to soak in.

8. Can I add zest to the batter?

Yes, adding lemon zest to the batter enhances the citrus flavor.

9. What’s the best way to grease the pan?

Use butter or nonstick spray, and consider adding a dusting of flour to prevent sticking.

10. Can I use a bundt pan instead of a 9×13 pan?

Yes, adjust the baking time to 40-45 minutes and test for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

This Lemon Cake to Die For is a must-try for lemon lovers! With its moist texture and tangy glaze, it’s a dessert that’s simple to make yet incredibly delicious. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and brighten your day with a burst of citrusy delight!