Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a lemon lover’s dream, combining a tender crumb with a tangy glaze that enhances its citrusy essence. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether for a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Optional Garnish:
- Thin lemon slices
- Fresh mint leaves
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, 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 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream and lemon juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Set aside.
- Cool and Glaze: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Garnish: If desired, decorate with thin lemon slices and fresh mint leaves.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12-16 slices, depending on thickness.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 45-55 minutes
- Cooling Time: Approximately 1 hour
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or lime zest for a mixed citrus flavor.
- Berry Addition: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity surprise.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
How can I ensure my Bundt cake doesn’t stick to the pan?
Thoroughly grease and flour the Bundt pan, ensuring all crevices are coated. Using a non-stick baking spray with flour can also be effective.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice provides superior flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the yellow outer layer of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
Yes, adjust the baking time to 18-22 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Why is my cake dense and not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
Can I add poppy seeds to this recipe?
Absolutely, adding 2-3 tablespoons of poppy seeds can create a delightful lemon-poppy seed cake.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the recipe, but salted butter can be used if that’s what you have; consider reducing added salt.
Extreme Lemon Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Extreme Lemon Bundt Cake, a moist, zesty dessert infused with fresh lemon juice and zest. Topped with a tangy glaze, it’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or weeknight treats.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Optional Garnish:
- Thin lemon slices
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs & Flavorings: Incorporate eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Combine Batter: Alternate adding dry ingredients with sour cream and lemon juice, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Cool & Glaze: Cool cake in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a rack. Once completely cooled, drizzle glaze over the cake.
- Garnish: Decorate with lemon slices and mint leaves, if desired.
Notes
- For added citrus flavor, substitute part of the lemon zest with orange or lime zest.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
- Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American