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Best Ever Lemon Cake To Die For – Ina Garten’s Ultimate Recipe


  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 55 min

Description

This ultra-moist, vibrant lemon cake is bursting with citrus flavor, thanks to a rich lemon pudding mix and a tangy-sweet glaze. It’s quick to prepare with a boxed mix but tastes completely homemade—perfect for brunch, potlucks, or just a sweet treat.


Ingredients

For the cake:
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant lemon pudding mix
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• ¾ cup water
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp lemon extract

For the glaze:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest


Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or loaf pan.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, lemon pudding mix, vegetable oil, water, eggs, and lemon extract. Beat for 2–3 minutes until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
4️⃣ Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5️⃣ While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl to make the glaze.
6️⃣ Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack.
7️⃣ While the cake is still warm, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in.
8️⃣ Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Moist & Fluffy: The instant lemon pudding mix adds extra moisture and a rich lemon flavor.

  • Bright Citrus Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest in the glaze give the cake a zesty kick.

  • Time Saver: Starts with a boxed cake mix—perfect for when you need a quick, impressive dessert.

  • Best Served Cool: Let the glaze fully set before slicing for cleaner cuts and better flavor.

  • Versatile: Can be made in a bundt pan, loaf pan, or even as cupcakes—just adjust baking time accordingly.

  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 45 min