There’s something truly magical about the bright, tangy flavor of a Lemon Bundt Cake. This dessert is the perfect marriage of sweet and tart, with a soft, moist crumb and a vibrant citrus glaze that adds just the right amount of zing. Whether you’re baking for a springtime gathering, a summer barbecue, or just to satisfy a citrus craving, this Lemon Bundt Cake is sure to be the highlight of any occasion.
Bright and Beautiful Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe
Lemon Bundt Cake is a timeless dessert, loved for its rich flavor and simple elegance. The bundt pan creates a beautiful shape, making it a centerpiece-worthy dessert, while the combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and a luscious glaze ensures every bite bursts with citrusy goodness.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bake something both easy and impressive. It’s made with pantry staples and fresh lemons, delivering a homemade treat that tastes far better than anything store-bought. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this Lemon Bundt Cake is a foolproof recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients for Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe
Creating this showstopping Lemon Bundt Cake requires just a few simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the cake. Be sure to measure it accurately for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lemons.
- Unsalted Butter – Softened butter gives the cake a rich, moist crumb.
- Eggs – These add structure and contribute to the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Fresh Lemons – Both the juice and zest are used to infuse the cake with bright citrus flavor.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises perfectly in the oven.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk – Adds a tangy richness while keeping the cake tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Vanilla Extract – Complements the lemon flavor for a well-rounded taste.
For the glaze:
- Powdered Sugar – The base for the glaze that adds sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Lemon Juice – Mixed with powdered sugar to create a bright and tangy drizzle.
- Lemon Zest – For an extra pop of citrus flavor and garnish.
How to Make Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe
Baking this Lemon Bundt Cake is as easy as it is satisfying. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a perfectly golden, fragrant cake ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a bundt pan with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures a tender cake texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs, One at a Time
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until combined.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Step 6: Pour Batter Into Pan
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. While the cake cools, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of color and flavor.
How Long to Bake Lemon Bundt Cake
Getting the bake time right is key to achieving a perfectly moist Lemon Bundt Cake. Here are some helpful guidelines:
- Standard Bundt Pan (10-12 cup capacity) – Bake for 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Mini Bundt Pans – If you’re making smaller, individual cakes, bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Always check the cake a few minutes before the recommended bake time to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Remember, every oven is slightly different, so baking times may vary.
How to Store Lemon Bundt Cake
This Lemon Bundt Cake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Room Temperature – Store the cake covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator – If you prefer, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer – For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before enjoying.
Tips for a Perfect Lemon Bundt Cake
Follow these tips to ensure your Lemon Bundt Cake turns out flawless every time:
- Grease the Pan Thoroughly – Bundt pans have intricate designs that can make cakes stick. Use plenty of butter or cooking spray and dust with flour to ensure the cake releases cleanly.
- Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential for the bright, vibrant flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it doesn’t provide the same zing.
- Don’t Overmix – When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough.
- Let It Cool Before Glazing – Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting and running off.
- Experiment with Add-Ins – For extra flavor, try folding in poppy seeds, blueberries, or shredded coconut to the batter.
This Lemon Bundt Cake is a showstopper, whether you’re serving it at a party, gifting it to a friend, or indulging in a slice with your afternoon coffee. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet, buttery goodness!
PrintLemon Bundt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Lemon Bundt Cake is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a moist crumb and a bright lemon glaze. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its stunning presentation and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-12 cup bundt pan generously with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. - Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. - Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. - Fill the Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top. Tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. - Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare and Apply Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides. Garnish with lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Notes
- Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
- Add-Ins: Fold in blueberries, raspberries, or poppy seeds for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Substitute the glaze with a cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes