The moment you try this Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become one of those effortlessly charming desserts to keep in your repertoire. It’s a heavenly combination of tender lemon cake and creamy pudding that magically bake together to form a dessert that’s both light and indulgent. With every spoonful, you get that zesty brightness balanced by a silky texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite for gatherings or a special treat any time you crave something delightful and refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays an essential role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden hue. From the citrusy sparkle of lemon cake mix to the smooth richness of pudding, every element comes together in harmony.
- Lemon cake mix (9×13 size): Provides the light, citrusy base with built-in lemon flavor to keep things easy and consistent.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture, crucial for both the cake and pudding components.
- Canola oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering the delicate lemon taste.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together while lending structure to the cake.
- Instant lemon pudding mix (2 boxes, 3.4 ounces each): Brings creamy lemon flavor and that signature custard-like texture.
- Sugar (⅓ cup): Sweetens the pudding layer and balances the tartness of the lemon.
- Cold water (1 ¼ cups): Lightens the pudding mixture to ensure it doesn’t overpower the cake.
- Powdered sugar: For dusting, adding a pretty finishing touch and a hint of sweetness.
- Whipped cream: For serving, delivering a cloud-like creaminess that pairs perfectly.
- Fresh mint sprigs and lemon slices: Serve as aromatic and visually stunning garnishes.
How to Make Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spraying your 9×13 baking dish with baking spray helps prevent sticking and ensures your cake lifts out beautifully after baking. A well-prepped pan sets the tone for success.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 cup whole milk, canola oil, and eggs. Whisk until everything is smooth and fully incorporated. This batter transforms into the luscious, flavorful foundation of the dessert when baked.
Step 3: Pour and Spread the Batter
Transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This even layer ensures uniform baking and a consistent texture throughout the cake.
Step 4: Mix the Lemon Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, instant lemon pudding mixes, 2 cups whole milk, and 1 ¼ cups cold water. Beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. This luscious pudding is what makes this recipe so uniquely dreamy.
Step 5: Drop Dollops of Pudding Over the Batter
Spoon dollops of the pudding mixture over the cake batter. Don’t worry about perfection here; those irregular drops create the signature pudding pockets that bake into the cake for a delightful texture contrast.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking with a Cookie Sheet
Set your baking dish on a cookie sheet to catch any drips that might bubble over during baking. This simple step saves you from oven messes and makes cleanup far easier.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, the pudding sinks slightly, creating that luscious, creamy layer beneath the moist lemon cake.
Step 8: Cool and Get Ready to Serve
Let your cake cool for about 30 minutes. This resting time allows the layers to set perfectly so each slice holds together while revealing those gorgeous pudding streams within.
How to Serve Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this dessert’s fresh and vibrant personality with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a swirl of whipped cream, a bright lemon slice, and a sprig of fresh mint. These small touches bring elegance and a refreshing aroma that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a simple fruit salad featuring berries or citrus segments to complement the lemon’s brightness. A cup of hot tea or a light sparkling wine also works beautifully alongside for a balanced dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the cake in individual clear glass bowls or trifle cups to showcase the luscious lemon layers, topped with garnishes. You can also cut it into mini squares and arrange on a platter with mint leaves scattered around for an inviting party spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover luscious lemon pudding cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish stays moist and flavorful, and you’ll find that the flavors develop even more as it chills.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
To warm leftover cake slices, heat gently in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to keep the pudding layer creamy and luscious. Serving with fresh whipped cream elevates the pleasure.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade lemon cake mix instead of boxed?
Absolutely! Using a homemade lemon cake batter can add a unique touch. Just be sure it has a similar consistency to boxed cake mixes so the pudding layer bakes properly alongside it.
Is it necessary to use whole milk for this recipe?
Whole milk provides the best richness and texture, especially for the pudding. However, you can try 2% milk if needed, but the final dessert might be slightly less creamy.
Can I substitute lemon pudding with another flavor?
While lemon pudding is key to achieving that bright, fresh lemon taste, you could experiment with other citrus flavors like orange or lime pudding mixes for a fun twist, though it will change the classic essence of the dish.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers are delicious cold right from the fridge or lightly warmed. Adding a dollop of whipped cream before serving refreshes the experience and adds extra indulgence.
Why does the pudding layer sink into the cake?
This is exactly what you want! The pudding slowly sinks during baking, creating delightful pockets of creamy, lemony custard inside the fluffy cake, which makes this dessert so irresistibly luscious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe that makes it a standout dessert to cherish. Its simplicity combined with its extraordinary creamy and zesty layers makes it perfect for both weeknight treats and impressive gatherings. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this cake as much as I do—once you taste it, you’ll understand why it easily earns a top spot in your dessert favorites!
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Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert combining a moist lemon cake base with a creamy lemon pudding topping, all baked together to create a unique texture and flavor. Perfect for spring or summer gatherings, this cake is topped with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh lemon slices, and mint sprigs for an elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 lemon cake mix (9×13 size)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup canola oil
- 3 large eggs
Pudding Mixture
- 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant lemon pudding mix
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 ¼ cups cold water
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Whipped cream
- Fresh mint sprigs
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon cake mix, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup canola oil, and 3 large eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare pudding mixture: In a separate large bowl, beat together the sugar, instant lemon pudding mixes, 2 cups whole milk, and 1 ¼ cups cold water. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 2 minutes until it thickens and becomes well combined.
- Layer pudding: Spoon dollops of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter in the baking dish.
- Prepare for baking: Place the baking dish on a cookie sheet to catch any drips while baking, ensuring a clean oven.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The pudding mixture will set and create a luscious topping while baking.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool for about 30 minutes to set properly. Dust with powdered sugar, garnish with whipped cream, fresh lemon slices, and mint sprigs before serving. Enjoy your luscious lemon pudding cake!
Notes
- Ensure the baking dish is placed on a cookie sheet to catch drips and prevent spills in the oven.
- Use cold water for the pudding mixture to help it thicken properly.
- Let the cake cool sufficiently before serving to allow the pudding topping to set.
- For an extra zing, add a little lemon zest to the cake batter or pudding mixture.
- This cake can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, stored covered.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
