Description
This Luscious Lemon Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert combining a moist lemon cake base with a rich lemon pudding topping that forms a luscious layer during baking. Perfectly balanced with bright citrus flavors and a light, airy texture, it’s finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh mint, and lemon slices for an elegant presentation. Ideal for gatherings or a refreshing treat on a warm day.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Batter
- 1 lemon cake mix (9×13 size)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup canola oil
- 3 large eggs
Lemon Pudding Topping
- 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 with baking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon cake mix, 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup canola oil, and 3 large eggs until fully combined and smooth. Pour this batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare pudding mixture: In a separate large bowl, beat together the ⅓ cup sugar, both boxes of instant lemon pudding mix, 2 cups whole milk, and 1 ¼ cups cold water. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and is well combined.
- Layer pudding: Spoon dollops of the pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter in the baking dish. The pudding will create a luscious topping layer once baked.
- Prepare for baking: Place the baking dish on a cookie sheet to catch any drips or spills during baking for easy cleanup.
- Bake: Transfer the cookie sheet with the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the dish for about 30 minutes. Before serving, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, garnish with fresh mint sprigs, and lemon slices for an attractive presentation. Enjoy this refreshing lemon dessert!
Notes
- Make sure to whisk the pudding mixture thoroughly to allow it to thicken properly before layering on the cake batter.
- Using the cookie sheet for baking prevents messy drips in your oven and makes cleanup easier.
- Allowing the cake to cool slightly before serving helps the pudding layer set for perfect slicing.
- This cake is best served within a day or two for optimal freshness.
- You can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil or melted butter if preferred for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American