A Lemon Cake to Die For – Moist, Zesty & Irresistible!

If you’re a lemon lover, this Lemon Cake to Die For is the ultimate dessert! Made with moist, fluffy cake layers, a creamy lemon pudding filling, and a luscious whipped topping, this cake is bright, tangy, and bursting with citrus flavor.

Perfect for spring gatherings, birthdays, or any time you crave a refreshing dessert, this easy lemon cake is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients for Lemon Cake to Die For

the Cake Base:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or lemon cake mix
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs

the Lemon Pudding Layer:

• 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk

the Whipped Topping:

• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Garnishing (Optional):

• Fresh lemon slices
• Extra lemon zest
• White chocolate shavings

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
3. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until smooth.
4. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely before adding the pudding layer.

2. Prepare the Lemon Pudding Layer

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes, until thickened.
2. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.

3. Add the Whipped Topping

1. Gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
2. Sprinkle with lemon zest and powdered sugar for an extra pop of flavor.

4. Chill & Serve!

• Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
• Garnish with fresh lemon slices, zest, or white chocolate shavings for a beautiful presentation.
• Slice, serve, and enjoy!

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Expert Tips for the Best Lemon Cake

Use a lemon cake mix for an even stronger lemon flavor.
Chill before serving – This helps the layers set and enhances the flavor.
Add extra lemon juice to the cake batter for a citrus boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the cake cool completely – Warm cake can cause the pudding to melt.
Overmixing the batter – This can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
Skipping the chilling step – This cake tastes best when fully set and cold.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a cup of hot tea or iced lemonade.
• Top with fresh berries for added color and sweetness.
• Drizzle with a light lemon glaze for extra tang.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut milk and a non-dairy whipped topping.
• Swap the pudding flavor – Try vanilla or cheesecake pudding for a different twist.
• Add a crunchy layer – Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers between the layers.

What to Serve with Lemon Cake

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Lemon curd drizzled on top
• Whipped cream and fresh raspberries

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade cake instead of a cake mix?

Yes! Use your favorite from-scratch lemon cake recipe instead of a boxed mix.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Use 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream, whipped with 2 tablespoons of sugar until fluffy.

Conclusion

This Lemon Cake to Die For is the perfect combination of light, fluffy cake, creamy pudding, and refreshing citrus flavor. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, party, or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress!

Try it today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy and delicious dessert recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 320 kcal per slice (based on 12 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)

Serves: 12

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