Lemon Butter Bundt Cake

The Lemon Butter Bundt Cake is a vibrant, citrus-forward dessert with a soft, velvety crumb and a rich buttery flavor. Baked in a classic spiral Bundt pan and finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is simple, elegant, and perfect for any occasion—from brunches and garden parties to casual family desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake brings together the tang of fresh lemon and the richness of real butter for a refreshing yet indulgent bite. The Bundt pan creates a beautiful shape that requires minimal decorating effort. With its bright flavor, golden crust, and tender interior, it’s a reliable and impressive recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter (softened)

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Lemon zest

• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• Whole milk or buttermilk

• Vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10–12 cup Bundt pan, especially along the detailed ridges.

2. Sift together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.

5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.

6. Pour batter into the prepared pan, tapping it gently to remove air bubbles.

7. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

8. Cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and cool completely.

9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 50 minutes

• Cooling time: 1 hour

• Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Lemon glaze: Drizzle with a lemon icing made from lemon juice and powdered sugar.

• Blueberry addition: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter.

• Almond twist: Add a touch of almond extract and slivered almonds for texture.

• Poppy seeds: Mix in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for a lemon-poppy variation.

Storage/reheating

Store at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. To serve, bring to room temperature or warm individual slices briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds). The cake can also be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the brightest flavor and aroma.

Why did my Bundt cake stick to the pan?

Be sure to grease and flour thoroughly, reaching every groove of the pan.

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, it will yield a slightly lighter crumb. Reduce the amount slightly by 2 tablespoons per cup.

How do I get a perfect shape when unmolding?

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack while still slightly warm.

Can I use a different pan?

Yes, two 9-inch round pans or a 9×13-inch pan can be used; adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane zester and avoid the white pith, which can be bitter.

Can I frost this cake instead of using powdered sugar?

Absolutely. A lemon glaze or cream cheese frosting works well.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it has a balanced sweetness that complements the tang of lemon.

How long will the lemon flavor stay fresh?

It’s best within 3 days when the lemon aroma is strongest. Store in an airtight container to preserve it.

Conclusion

The Lemon Butter Bundt Cake is a timeless classic with bright citrus flavor and buttery richness. Its elegant shape and simplicity make it ideal for both casual and formal occasions. Whether served with tea, topped with fruit, or enjoyed plain, this cake offers refreshing satisfaction in every slice.

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