lemon Bundt cake is a must-try. Moist, bright, and full of lemon flavor, this cake surprises with a tangy “tunnel” of lemon goodness right in the center. Light but rich in citrus character, it’s the perfect dessert for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or any time you want a refreshing sweet treat.
The secret to this cake’s charm lies in its layered structure — a tender lemon cake on the outside and a lemony burst in the center that adds extra zing with every bite. Best of all, you don’t need advanced baking skills to make it; with clear steps and familiar ingredients, even beginning bakers can create a dessert that looks and tastes impressive.
Scroll down for the ingredient breakdown and step-by-step directions so you can enjoy a delightful lemon Bundt cake at home.
Ingredients :
For the Lemon Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the cake’s light, tender structure.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Works with the baking soda for lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream – Adds creaminess and keeps the cake moist.
- ¾ cup vegetable oil – Helps the cake stay tender.
- 4 eggs, at room temperature – Provides structure and richness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest – Intensifies lemon flavor.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice – Adds tangy brightness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds subtle sweetness.
For the Tangy Lemon Center
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup water
For the Lemon Glaze (Optional but recommended)
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Step-by-Step Directions :
1. Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 10- to 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray or butter, then dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Lemon Filling (Tunnel Base)
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes somewhat gelatinous — about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
This tangy filling will form the surprise lemon center.
3. Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the yogurt (or sour cream), vegetable oil, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined — be careful not to overmix.
4. Layer the Cake
Spoon about half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
Carefully pour the cooled lemon-filling mixture down the center — don’t spread it to the edges. This will create your lemon tunnel.
Top with the remaining cake batter, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake portion (not the filling) comes out clean.
Once done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Add Lemon Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and melted butter until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or a splash more lemon juice for a thinner glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it gloss the top and drip down the sides.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Citrus Punch: Add lime zest or orange zest for a citrus trio effect.
- Blueberry Boost: Fold 1 cup of fresh blueberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For a creamy interior, swirl a few dollops of sweetened cream cheese above and below the lemon center.
- Make Ahead: Bake the cake a day in advance and keep it in an airtight container — the flavors deepen and become even more delicious.
Conclusion :
This lemon Bundt cake with a tangy lemon center is a standout dessert — sunny, moist, and full of lively citrus flavor. Its playful “tunnel” surprise adds a fun twist that makes every slice feel special. Whether you serve it for a celebration, brunch, or simply to brighten someone’s day, this cake delivers both visual appeal and delicious taste.
Thanks to its straightforward method and familiar ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels elegant without being complicated. The bright lemon notes, soft texture, and optional glaze make it a memorable treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Try it with a cup of tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream — either way, this lemon Bundt cake is a shining example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.
