Lemon Bundt Cake

Name: Lemon Bundt Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-483407H40S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 4 large eggs; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt may be substituted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (for icing); 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for icing)

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 16, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bundt Cake

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both light and flavorful, then Lemon Bundt Cake is just the treat you need! Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of this cake, where the refreshing zing of lemon dances on your tongue, balanced perfectly by a tender crumb. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon at home, this cake is incredibly simple to make yet looks impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Plus, the drizzling of zesty lemon icing on top adds a beautiful finish that’s hard to resist. So grab your apron and let’s get baking—this Lemon Bundt Cake will have your friends and family asking for the recipe!

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What is a Lemon Bundt Cake

Lemon Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert characterized by its unique shape, thanks to the bundt pan. This cake captures the brightness of fresh lemons, creating a sweet yet tangy flavor profile that makes every bite memorable. The smooth, moist texture of the cake combines well with the lightness of the icing. It’s a versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to formal gatherings.

Ingredients for Lemon Bundt Cake

To create this heavenly Lemon Bundt Cake, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon zest
4 large eggs
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt may be substituted)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (for icing)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for icing)

Gathering these ingredients will set you up for a delicious baking adventure.

Preparing Your Lemon Bundt Cake

Preheat the Oven

Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cake bakes evenly, so don’t skip it!

Cream the Butter and Sugar

Next, grab a stand mixer or handheld mixer and beat the softened butter for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Then, gradually add the granulated sugar along with the lemon zest. Mix until everything is well combined.

Add the Eggs

It’s time to introduce the eggs! Add them one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. This helps create a smooth and homogenous batter.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, baking powder, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch. This mixture will provide structure to your cake, so set it aside for a bit.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the milk, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients ensures a balanced flavor throughout your batter.

Alternate Mixing

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so be gentle here!

Fold in the Sour Cream

Gently fold in the sour cream until it’s just incorporated. This ingredient is key for adding moisture, making your cake irresistible.

Prepare Your Bundt Pan

Before your batter goes in, it’s important to prepare your bundt cake pan. Grease it generously with butter or non-stick spray to keep the cake from sticking.

Pour and Bake

Now, pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a cake tester into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs—those are okay!

Cool Down

After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully flip it out and transfer it to a wire rack or plate so it can cool completely.

Prepare the Lemon Icing

While the cake cools, let’s whip up that delicious icing! In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step adds an extra zing to your cake.

Drizzle and Serve

Once your cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon icing over the top. Allow it to set for about 5 minutes. Then, it’s time to slice and enjoy every delightful bite!

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Bundt Cake is wonderful on its own but can be enhanced even more. Enjoy slices with a dollop of whipped cream or serve it alongside fresh berries. These additions complement the vibrant lemon flavor beautifully and make for a stunning presentation.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Avoid Overmixing: Mixing just enough maintains the light and fluffy texture we love in cakes.
Fresh Juice Rules: Always use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor; bottled juice can’t compare!

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Lemon Bundt Cake! Here are a few ideas:

Add poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch.
Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
For a richer flavor, try using browned butter instead of regular unsalted butter.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though it might be hard!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For anything beyond that, you can refrigerate the cake or wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to three months.

Pairing Ideas

This zesty Lemon Bundt Cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. It makes for a wonderful afternoon treat or a lovely dessert following dinner!

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, if opting for salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe.

2. How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it and store it covered for up to two days before frosting it.

4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream and will work beautifully.

5. How can I make my cake more lemony?
Add extra lemon zest to the batter and increase the lemon juice in the icing for an extra burst of flavor.

Lemon Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that brings sunshine and cheer to any occasion. With its light and fluffy texture, enhanced by the bright flavors of fresh lemon juice and zest, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this cake is a delightful treat that satisfies the sweet tooth while offering a refreshing twist. Try it today and enjoy the burst of citrus sunshine in every slice!

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Lemon Bundt Cake

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bundt Cake

What is a Lemon Bundt Cake

Ingredients for Lemon Bundt Cake