Introduction
Super Easy Lemonade Cake is the perfect dessert when you want something light, refreshing, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. This cake delivers a vibrant lemon taste using simple ingredients and an uncomplicated method that even beginner bakers can master. What makes this recipe especially appealing is how reliably moist it turns out every time, thanks to the lemonade-infused batter and glaze. I first made this cake for a casual afternoon gathering, and it disappeared faster than expected. The balance between sweetness and tang makes it enjoyable after a heavy meal or as a standalone treat with tea or coffee. It is the kind of recipe you keep on hand for last-minute occasions because it requires minimal preparation and delivers consistent results. Whether baked in a bundt pan or a simple cake tin, this lemonade cake offers sunshine-like flavor in every slice.
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Super Easy Lemonade Cake Recipe That Is Bright, Moist, and Effortless
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Super Easy Lemonade Cake is a bright, moist dessert made with simple ingredients and a fresh lemon flavor, perfect for quick baking with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup lemonade (fresh or bottled)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, lemonade, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze.
- While the cake is still warm, drizzle glaze evenly over the top.
- Allow cake to cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use pink lemonade for a fun twist.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Serve with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is quick, foolproof, and packed with bright lemon flavor. It uses everyday pantry ingredients, stays moist for days, and works beautifully for both casual and special occasions. The glaze adds a refreshing finish without being overly sweet.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cake and ensures a soft yet stable crumb.
Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the lemonade.
Baking powder helps the cake rise evenly, creating a light and tender texture.
Salt enhances the lemon flavor and prevents the cake from tasting flat.
Vegetable oil adds moisture and keeps the cake soft even after refrigeration.
Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute richness.
Lemonade concentrate or fresh lemonade delivers the signature tangy flavor that defines this cake.
Fresh lemon zest intensifies the citrus aroma and adds brightness.
Powdered sugar forms the base of the glaze, creating a smooth and lightly sweet topping.
Lemon juice is used in the glaze to reinforce the fresh lemon taste.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven to 180°C and greasing a bundt pan or cake tin thoroughly. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the oil, eggs, lemonade, and lemon zest until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth and lump-free. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake cools slightly, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves ten people comfortably. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with a baking time of approximately 40 minutes, making the total time around 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store Lemonade Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to five days. This cake does not require reheating and is best enjoyed at room temperature.
Variations and Customizations
Super Easy Lemonade Cake adapts easily to different preferences. I have tested a version using pink lemonade, which adds a subtle berry note and a light blush color to the cake. For extra richness, a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt can be added to the batter, resulting in an even softer crumb. You can also fold in poppy seeds for texture and visual appeal. For a more indulgent finish, replace the glaze with a cream cheese frosting, though the cake itself is flavorful enough to stand on its own. Orange or lime juice can be substituted for lemonade to create citrus variations while maintaining the same simple method.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This cake is a light dessert option compared to heavier frosted cakes. It contains carbohydrates and moderate fats, making it suitable for balanced enjoyment. Portion control helps keep it within a mindful eating plan.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do not overmix
Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
Proper glazing
Glaze the cake while slightly warm so it absorbs better.
Fresh zest
Always zest lemons before juicing for maximum flavor.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemonade?
Yes, bottled lemonade works well if it is not overly sweet.
Is lemonade concentrate better than fresh?
Both work, but concentrate provides a stronger lemon flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
What pan works best?
A bundt pan provides an elegant presentation, but a loaf or round pan also works.
Can I freeze Lemonade Cake?
Yes, freeze without glaze and add it after thawing.
Is this cake very sweet?
No, it has a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar?
A slight reduction is possible without affecting texture.
Does this cake stay moist?
Yes, it remains moist for several days.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe contains no dairy as written.
What can I serve with this cake?
Fresh berries or whipped cream pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Super Easy Lemonade Cake is a bright, refreshing dessert that proves simple recipes can deliver impressive flavor. With its moist texture, tangy glaze, and effortless preparation, it is a reliable choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to last-minute celebrations.
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