Are you a lemon lover searching for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in a dessert? This irresistible lemon cake is exactly what you need! Soft, moist, and bursting with citrus flavor, it’s a recipe that’s been cherished for generations. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

The secret to its incredible flavor and texture lies in the instant lemon pudding mix combined with a classic yellow cake mix. The result? A cake that’s super moist, fluffy, and packed with lemony goodness. But wait – it gets even better! A homemade lemon glaze soaks into the cake, ensuring every bite is filled with zesty sweetness.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• ✅ 1 box yellow cake mix – The perfect base for a rich and fluffy cake.
• ✅ 1 small box instant lemon pudding mix – Adds extra moisture and enhances the citrus flavor.
• ✅ ¾ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out.
• ✅ ¾ cup water – Helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• ✅ 4 large eggs, beaten – Adds structure and richness to the cake.

For the Lemon Glaze:

• ✅ 2 cups powdered sugar – Creates a silky-smooth glaze with a touch of sweetness.
• ✅ 2 tablespoons melted butter – Adds richness and a glossy finish.
• ✅ ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice – Gives the glaze its signature tangy kick.
• ✅ 2 tablespoons water – Helps achieve the right consistency for drizzling.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Add the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, vegetable oil, and water. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy batter with no lumps.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should spring back when touched.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the cake is baking, prepare the zesty lemon glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and water until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but slightly thick—just enough to coat the cake without running off completely.

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then, using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke small holes all over the surface of the warm cake. This will allow the glaze to seep into the cake, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Slowly pour the lemon glaze over the warm cake, letting it sink into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every inch is coated with delicious citrus goodness.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the glaze fully sets, creating a moist, flavorful, and slightly sticky texture that’s simply irresistible. Serve as is or top with whipped cream, lemon zest, or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.

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🍋 Expert Tips for the Best Lemon Cake

✔ Use Fresh Lemon Juice – The fresh lemon juice in the glaze brings out the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can have an artificial taste.

✔ Enhance the Flavor – Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for an extra boost of citrusy goodness.

✔ Make it Extra Moist – Substitute half of the water with buttermilk or Greek yogurt for an even richer texture.

✔ Want a Lighter Version? – Swap the vegetable oil for unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat without sacrificing moisture.

✔ Storage Tips – This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature when covered. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.

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🌟 Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This lemon cake is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to elevate it:

🍓 With Fresh Berries – Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.

🍦 With Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet makes it even more indulgent.

☕ With Tea or Coffee – The citrusy sweetness pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or espresso.

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⏳ Quick Recipe Recap

📌 Prep Time: 10 minutes
📌 Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
📌 Total Time: 40-45 minutes
📌 Servings: 12 slices
📌 Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per slice

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cake

✅ Super Moist & Tender – The pudding mix ensures the cake stays soft and fluffy.
✅ Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together in just 40 minutes.
✅ Perfectly Tangy & Sweet – The lemon glaze adds an irresistible citrus burst.
✅ Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dessert, potluck, or holiday treat, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser.

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💛 Final Thoughts

If you love bright, citrusy flavors, this lemon cake will quickly become your new favorite dessert! Easy to make, bursting with fresh lemon goodness, and topped with a luscious glaze, it’s truly a cake to die for.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag it with #LemonCakeLover on social media—I’d love to see your delicious creations!

Happy baking! 🍋🎂✨