Indulge in pure lemon bliss with this exquisite Lemon Bundt Cake! A triumph of flavor and texture, this moist and tender cake, crafted from a convenient yellow cake mix, features a luscious cream cheese and fresh lemon filling. Crowned with the most heavenly lemon cream cheese frosting, this dessert is so delightful, you’ll be tempted to savor it straight from the spoon!
Prepare to be amazed by this extraordinary lemon bundt cake, boasting a vibrant lemon flavor and a rich cream cheese frosting. It’s an effortless recipe that leverages simple ingredients to deliver an unforgettable dessert experience. While the lemon cream cheese frosting offers a decadent finish, feel free to customize this moist and fluffy bundt cake by opting for a lighter lemon glaze instead, or even serving it unfrosted. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile – easily transform it into a classic 9×13 sheet cake if a bundt pan isn’t available, without compromising on flavor or texture. Baking deliciousness has never been this simple!
This delightful cake recipe was originally inspired by Betty Crocker’s creative list of “what to make with a yellow cake mix,” proving that extraordinary desserts can emerge from the simplest of foundations. It quickly became one of our go-to bundt cake recipes, loved for its vibrant flavor and tender crumb.
Craving more bright and zesty citrus desserts to brighten your day? Be sure to explore my Blueberry Lemon Pull-Apart Bread for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat, or indulge in the tangy sweetness of my classic Glazed Lemon Bars!
We’re thrilled to welcome you to #LemonWeek 2022, a celebration of all things lemon, graciously hosted by Lynn from Fresh April Flours and Rebecca from Devour Dinner. This year, Lemon Week is proudly sponsored by Rodelle and La Tourangelle, who have provided product samples to help inspire these incredible recipes. Rest assured, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own. Join me and a host of fellow Lemon Week bloggers as we share an exciting array of lemon-infused dishes, from appetizers to refreshing drinks, savory entrées, and, of course, tempting desserts! Don’t miss your chance to win an amazing prize package by entering the giveaway details found at the conclusion of this recipe post!
Why This Lemon Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is Simply the Best
This lemon bundt cake stands out as a truly exceptional dessert, perfect for any occasion but particularly delightful during the spring season. What makes it so special is the harmonious blend of uncomplicated, readily available ingredients combined with the convenience of a yellow cake mix. The result is a decadently rich and moist treat that feels incredibly gourmet without the fuss.
It’s an ideal choice for festive gatherings like an Easter brunch, a heartwarming Mother’s Day celebration, or even just a casual sunny afternoon dessert. Beyond its incredible taste, you’ll also adore the inviting, citrusy aroma that fills your home as this lemon pound cake with its creamy cream cheese frosting bakes – a scent that promises pure comfort and joy.
This recipe consistently yields a beautifully dense yet moist cake, making it wonderfully versatile. While I particularly love using a bundt cake pan for its elegant and aesthetically pleasing shape – it truly adds a touch of sophistication – this batter performs equally well in a traditional pound cake loaf pan or even a 9×13 inch baking dish. The preparation couldn’t be simpler: just blend your ingredients until smooth, then effortlessly pour the mixture into your chosen pan. It’s a completely trouble-free process that guarantees a perfect cake every time.
For those who prefer a lighter touch, the rich lemon cream cheese frosting can be easily adjusted. By thinning it with a little extra milk, you can achieve a delicate glaze-like consistency, similar to the one featured in my Lemon Raspberry Bundt Cake recipe. This customization allows you to tailor the sweetness and texture to your preference, offering another layer of versatility to this already fantastic recipe.
Are you a fan of the classic bundt cake form? Then you’ll love exploring more of my delightful bundt cake recipes! Be sure to try my wholesome Blueberry Banana Bundt Cake, the decadent Chocolate Macaroon Tunnel Bundt Cake, or its delicious sibling, the Chocolate Macaroon Tunnel Cake!
Essential Ingredients for Your Luscious Lemon Bundt Cake
This incredible recipe relies on fresh, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand in your refrigerator or pantry. For the precise quantities and detailed instructions, simply scroll down to the full recipe card below.
For the Delightfully Moist Lemon Cake
- Yellow Cake Mix: The secret to making this recipe incredibly simple and consistently perfect. Using a yellow cake mix not only saves time but also imparts a wonderfully creamy, almost custard-like flavor that beautifully complements the tang of lemon and the richness of cream cheese in the filling. It’s an easy shortcut that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
- Cream Cheese: While lemon is undoubtedly the star of this cake, cream cheese plays a crucial supporting role. It’s essential for achieving that signature decadent, fluffy, and supremely moist texture that truly elevates this dessert from good to absolutely irresistible. It adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Milk: Beyond simply adding moisture, milk is vital for the cake’s structure and tenderness. The lactose in milk helps break down into sugars during baking, contributing to a golden crust and a soft, moist crumb. It also interacts with the flour and other ingredients to create a smoother, more cohesive batter.
- Eggs: These are the foundational binding agents for any great cake. Eggs provide structure, help the cake rise, and contribute to its overall form and stability. They emulsify the batter, creating a uniform texture and adding richness that enhances the cake’s flavor and moistness.
- Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: The very heart of this lemon bundt cake! Using both fresh lemon juice and zest infuses the cake with an intense, vibrant citrus flavor that store-bought extracts simply cannot replicate. The zest provides aromatic oils, while the juice delivers that signature bright, tangy punch, making every bite burst with fresh lemon essence.
For the Irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese: The star of any cream cheese frosting! It imparts a wonderfully creamy, tangy, and subtly buttery texture and taste that makes this topping utterly addictive. Its richness is the perfect complement to the bright lemon flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: The foundation for sweetness and texture. When combined with milk and cream cheese, powdered sugar creates a smooth, luscious, and pipeable frosting that beautifully tops cakes, cupcakes, and other pastries. Its fine texture ensures a silky-smooth finish.
- Fresh Lemon Zest & Juice: Essential for giving the frosting that irresistible, zesty citrus flavoring. The zest provides fragrant essential oils for a brighter aroma, while the fresh juice adds a tangy kick that cuts through the sweetness of the sugar and enriches the cream cheese.
- Milk: This ingredient is crucial for achieving the desired consistency. You can use less powdered sugar and slightly more milk to create a thinner, more pourable glaze-like consistency, or keep the original proportions for a thick, creamy frosting. It allows for perfect customization based on your preference.
How to Master the Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
Creating my easy lemon bundt cake is a breeze! This recipe simplifies the baking process without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or that delightful homemade touch. For an even more detailed, step-by-step guide with precise measurements and timings, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down this page. You’ll be enjoying this zesty dessert in no time!
1. Prepare Your Baking Environment
Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the cake goes in, promoting even baking. Next, meticulously prepare a 10-cup bundt pan by coating it thoroughly with a high-quality non-stick cooking spray, ensuring every crevice is covered. This step is crucial for an easy release and perfectly formed cake. Once prepared, set the pan aside, ready for the batter.
2. Mix the Magic Batter
Gather all the cake ingredients and place them together in a large mixing bowl. With an electric mixer set to low speed, gently combine the ingredients for approximately one minute. During this initial mixing, use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, ensuring all components are incorporated. Once partially mixed, increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating the cake batter for a full 2 minutes. This step is essential for developing the cake’s structure and ensuring a light, airy texture.
3. Pour and Bake to Perfection
Carefully pour the thoroughly mixed cake batter into the bundt pan you prepared earlier, distributing it evenly. Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Baking until a clean toothpick emerges ensures the cake is cooked through without being over-baked, retaining its desirable moisture.
4. Cool for Optimal Texture
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in its baking pan for about 15 minutes. This crucial cooling period in the pan helps the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to invert without breaking. After 15 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack. It is vital to let the cake cool completely to room temperature before applying any frosting. Attempting to frost a warm cake will result in a melted, runny mess.
5. Prepare the Dreamy Frosting and Finish
While the cake cools, prepare the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and lemon zest until the mixture is beautifully smooth and lump-free. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and fresh lemon juice, stirring until you achieve a smooth, creamy, and spreadable frosting. Once the cake has completely cooled, generously frost it with this delicious topping, allowing it to cascade beautifully over the bundt’s ridges.
6. Store Leftovers
Should you have any delectable slices remaining (a rare occurrence!), ensure to store them properly to maintain freshness. Cover the leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The cool temperature will preserve the frosting and maintain the cake’s moist texture.
Love This Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Don’t let this incredible citrus dessert recipe slip away! Make sure to save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest so you can easily find it whenever a craving for zesty, moist cake strikes. It’s perfect for future baking inspiration and sharing with friends!
More Delightful Dessert Recipes to Explore
- Easy Lemon Raspberry Bundt Cake
- Pineapple Coconut Tunnel Cake
- Banana Bread Coffee Cake
- Carrot Bundt Cake
- Pumpkin Spiced Coffee Cake with Brown Butter Glaze
- Hamburger Cupcakes
- Cinderella Cake – Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Lemon Rhubarb Bundt Cake
- Carrot Bundt Cake
Thursday #LemonWeek Recipes: Discover More Zesty Delights!
- Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins by Fresh April Flours
- Lemon Chess Pie by Palatable Pastime
- Strawberry Lemonade Bars by Best Cookie Recipes
- Lemon Dump Cake by The Fresh Cooky
- Easy Peasy Lemon Cookies by A Day In The Life On The Farm
- Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake by An Affair From The Heart (That’s this recipe!)
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes by Jen Around The World
Now, let’s get baking and create this unbelievably zesty dessert!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Average Rating: 4.82 from 11 votes
Print Recipe
Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
This simple Lemon Bundt Cake is lemon perfection. A moist cake that starts with a yellow cake mix, filled with cream cheese and fresh lemon, is then topped with the most delicious lemon cream cheese frosting, you will have to resist eating it with a spoon!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Additional Time (Cooling): 1 hr
Total Time: 2 hrs
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12
Calories: 284 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Rubber Spatulas
- Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Hand Mixer
- Nordic Ware Bundt Pan
Ingredients
- FOR THE CAKE:
- 1 yellow cake mix
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 Tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- FOR THE FROSTING:
- 5 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C) and prepare a 10-cup bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Place all of the cake ingredients into a large mixing bowl. With an electric mixer on low speed, combine the ingredients for about one minute, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Turn the mixer to medium speed and beat the cake batter for 2 minutes. Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool the cake in the baking pan for 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a plate or wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: Cream the softened cream cheese and lemon zest together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and fresh lemon juice, stirring until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Frost the completely cooled cake.
- Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to 5 days.
Notes
For this recipe, you will need a total of an 8-ounce block of cream cheese. This will be divided for both the cake batter and the frosting.
This recipe will require approximately 3-4 large lemons to obtain the necessary juice and zest for both the cake and the frosting.
If you prefer a thinner lemon glaze instead of a thick frosting, you can thin the prepared frosting with additional milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition
Enter Our #LemonWeek Giveaway!
We’re excited to offer you a chance to win some fantastic prizes from our generous sponsors, Rodelle and La Tourangelle. Don’t miss out on these incredible culinary bundles!
Prize #1: Rodelle Prize Pack
The Rodelle Prize Pack includes:
- 2 count Gourmet Madagascar Vanilla Beans
- 2oz Almond Extract
- 4oz Natural Baker’s Extract
- 4oz Vanilla Paste
- 8oz Gourmet Vanilla Extract
- 25oz Organic Baking Cocoa
Prize #2: La Tourangelle Prize Pack
The La Tourangelle Prize Pack includes:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Roasted Walnut Oil
- Regenerative Sunflower Oil
- 4oz Vanilla Paste
- Fleur de Sel Almond Butter
To enter the giveaway, please visit the official #LemonWeek giveaway page through the link provided by the hosts (refer to the main Lemon Week announcement on Fresh April Flours or Devour Dinner websites). Good luck!