Easy Lemon Pudding Bundt Cake

Moist, zesty, and incredibly soft, this Easy Lemon Pudding Bundt Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Made with a simple cake mix and instant lemon pudding, this recipe is a no-fuss way to achieve a bakery-quality cake with minimal effort. The addition of sour cream ensures a rich and tender crumb, while a tangy lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Uses a cake mix and instant pudding for a foolproof dessert.
• Moist and tender – The sour cream and pudding mix keep the cake soft and rich.
• Bright and zesty – Fresh lemon zest and juice give it a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for brunch, tea time, or as a simple dessert.
• Beautiful presentation – A bundt cake always looks impressive with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow cake mix
• Instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz)
• Large eggs
• Sour cream
• Vegetable oil
• Water
• Lemon zest
• Vanilla extract

For the glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Milk

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and instant lemon pudding mix.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, sour cream, oil, water, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
7. Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and let it set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 12 slices
• Calories: 320 kcal per slice

Variations

• Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a few drops of lemon extract for a more intense citrus taste.
• Berry Addition: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the glaze for a rich cream cheese drizzle for added decadence.
• Lighter Version: Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly healthier option.
• Decorative Touch: Sprinkle with powdered sugar or top with lemon zest for extra flair.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days for maximum freshness.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can substitute a white or lemon cake mix for a slightly different flavor.

What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?

The pudding mix adds moisture and flavor, but if omitted, the cake will still bake properly—just slightly less rich.

Can I make this cake in a regular cake pan?

Yes, but adjust the baking time. A 9×13-inch pan will take about 35-40 minutes.

How do I prevent my bundt cake from sticking?

Grease and flour the pan thoroughly, ensuring every crevice is covered. Using a non-stick bundt pan also helps.

Can I double the recipe?

For a larger cake, double the ingredients and bake in two bundt pans or a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.

What is the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the yellow part of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the cake should spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of water in the batter?

Yes, replacing some or all of the water with fresh lemon juice will enhance the lemon flavor.

Is this cake good for layering?

Bundt cakes are best served as a single layer, but you can slice it horizontally and add a layer of frosting or filling if desired.

Can I add poppy seeds to this cake?

Yes, adding 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter will create a delicious lemon poppy seed variation.

Conclusion

This Easy Lemon Pudding Bundt Cake is the perfect dessert for lemon lovers. With its moist texture, bright citrus flavor, and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic choice for both casual and special occasions. Whether served as a teatime treat or a show-stopping dessert, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a slice of zesty goodness!