Lemon cake with pudding mix recipe is a soft, moist dessert that brings together the bright flavor of fresh lemon and the richness of instant lemon pudding.
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe was created to offer a simple, flavorful cake that delights anyone who enjoys a tangy, sweet treat. The main purpose is to provide a reliable, easy-to-make dessert that can be shared with family, friends, or at gatherings.
While lemon cake with pudding mix recipe have a long history in American baking, adding pudding mix became popular for enhancing moisture and texture.
The following guide presents steps to prepare this lemon cake with pudding mix recipe, serving suggestions, tips, health benefits, variations, preservation ideas, and answers to common questions.
About This Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe offers a bright, tangy flavor balanced by a tender, moist texture. The lemon zest and fresh lemon juice provide a zesty, refreshing taste that complements the sweetness of the cake, while the instant lemon pudding adds richness and softness.
Ingredients include lemon cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, large eggs, vegetable oil, water, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest for the cake.
The glaze is made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of vanilla, creating a sweet, slightly tart topping that enhances the overall flavor.
How To Prepare Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe?
To make this lemon cake with pudding mix recipe perfectly, follow the steps carefully. Clear instructions and helpful tips guide the process, ensuring a moist, flavorful cake.
Basic kitchen tools are suggested to make baking easier, but using what you have will still result in a tender, zesty, and delicious lemon cake.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Small bowl for glaze
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box lemon cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant lemon pudding mix (instant, not “cook and serve”)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by either greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, water, vegetable oil, and fresh lemon juice. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Next, add the lemon cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, and lemon zest to the wet ingredients. Mix everything together on low speed with a hand or electric mixer until the batter is completely smooth and uniform.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
5. While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
6. When the cake is still slightly warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it soak in a bit. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Note: Using instant lemon pudding mix in the batter keeps the cake moist for days. The glaze should be poured over the cake while slightly warm for best absorption.
Nutrition Facts Of Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 36g |
Why My Recipe Works
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe works because the instant pudding mix adds extra moisture and keeps the cake tender, ensuring it does not dry out during baking.
The lemon juice and zest provide a natural, vibrant flavor that balances the sweetness and brightens the overall taste. Using a boxed lemon cake mix as the base guarantees consistent texture and structure, making the recipe easy to follow.
The glaze enhances the flavor by adding a sweet and slightly tangy finish that seeps into the warm cake. The ingredients work together to create a reliably soft, flavorful, and appealing dessert every time.
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe is a must-try because it delivers a tender, moist texture that stays soft for days. Fresh lemon juice and zest create a bright, lively flavor that balances sweetness naturally, while the glaze adds a smooth, sweet finish that enhances taste and appearance.
The lemon cake with pudding mix recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it accessible to bakers of all levels.
The soft crumb, refreshing tang, and long-lasting moisture make this cake a memorable dessert that delights both family and guests.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe can be served in multiple enjoyable ways. Slice it into squares or rectangles and serve on a dessert plate, either plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
It pairs well with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries, adding color and extra tartness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the richness.
For a refreshing twist, drizzle a little extra lemon juice or a fruit caulis over the slices. The cake can also be served alongside tea or coffee for a simple, delightful treat.
Expert Tips And Tricks
1. A measure ingredient accurately to ensure the cake rises properly and maintains a soft texture. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients.
2. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, natural flavor. Bottled juice or pre-grated zest can reduce the intensity of the lemon taste.
3. Beat the eggs, oil, and liquids well before adding them to the dry mix. This ensures the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
4. Avoid over mixing the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients. Over mixing can make the cake dense.
5. Bake the cake in a preheated oven and check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
6. Pour the glaze over the warm cake, not cold. This allows the glaze to soak in, adding flavor and moisture.
Health Benefits
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe provides a source of energy from carbohydrates and contains some protein from eggs. Using fresh lemon juice and zest adds vitamin C and natural antioxidants, which support immunity.
The cake contains fats from vegetable oil, offering essential fatty acids, while the glaze contributes sugars that should be enjoyed in moderation. Serving smaller portions helps balance indulgence with nutrition.
While not a health food, this dessert can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally, offering a refreshing citrus flavor and homemade satisfaction without excessive preparation.
Variations
➤ Blueberry Lemon Cake – Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking for bursts of fruity sweetness that complement the lemon flavor.
➤ Lemon Poppy Seed Cake – Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a subtle crunch and nutty taste that enhances the citrus notes.
➤ Glazed Lemon Bundt Cake – Bake the batter in a bundt pan and pour the glaze over the top for a visually striking cake with the same tender texture.
➤ Lemon Coconut Cake – Mix ½ cup shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle on top before glazing for added flavor and texture.
➤ Cream Cheese Lemon Cake – Swirl a softened cream cheese mixture into the batter before baking to create a rich, creamy layer within the lemon cake.
Preservation Ideas
Store the lemon cake with pudding mix recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days to keep it soft. For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The glaze can be added before freezing or after thawing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Avoid storing in direct sunlight or humid areas, as moisture can make the cake overly soft and affect the texture.
FAQs For Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe
What does pudding mix do in the cake?
Adding instant pudding mix helps the cake stay moist and tender by attracting and holding onto moisture during baking, which improves texture compared to using cake mix alone.
Can the baking time change when pudding is added?
Yes, the extra moisture from the pudding mix can slightly change how long the cake needs to bake. Check for doneness with a toothpick near the end of the recommended baking time.
Can I use a different pudding flavor if lemon isn’t available?
Vanilla instant pudding can be substituted if lemon flavor isn’t available. The cake will still be moist, though the lemon taste might be milder.
Why must I use instant pudding mix, not cook‑and‑serve?
Instant pudding powder mixes easily into the batter and affects moisture properly. Cook‑and‑serve requires extra liquid and can throw off the cake’s balance.
Can this recipe be adapted for cupcakes or a bundt pan?
Yes. The basic batter can be portioned into cupcake tins or baked in a bundt pan, but bake times will vary slightly. Use a toothpick to tell when it’s done.
Conclusion
This lemon cake with pudding mix recipe has been a true delight to prepare and share. My guests and family members enjoyed every slice, and their positive reactions brought me great happiness.
The recipe’s ease and reliable results made the baking experience enjoyable and stress-free, leaving a tender, flavorful cake that impressed everyone. Seeing how much everyone liked it gives confidence to recreate it anytime.
I hope others who try this lemon cake with pudding mix recipe will experience the same joy and satisfaction, creating moments of sweetness and smiles for family and friends.
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Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Small bowl for glaze
- Wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 15.25 oz box lemon cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 3.4 oz package instant lemon pudding mix (instant, not “cook and serve”)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by either greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, water, vegetable oil, and fresh lemon juice. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Next, add the lemon cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, and lemon zest to the wet ingredients. Mix everything together on low speed with a hand or electric mixer until the batter is completely smooth and uniform.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
- While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
- When the cake is still slightly warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it soak in a bit. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Lemon Cake With Pudding Mix Recipe
Calories: 310 | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fat: 11g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 36gHi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.