Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the ingredients until smooth and no lumps remain (about 2 minutes).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes (for a 9×13 pan) or 35–40 minutes (for a bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze).
- Stir in the lemon zest for an added burst of flavor.
Step 5: Glaze the Cake
- Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as-is for a simple yet flavorful dessert.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Tips for Success
- Zest First: Always zest your lemons before juicing them for easier handling.
- Extra Moisture: For a super moist cake, poke small holes in the warm cake with a skewer and brush it with a mix of lemon juice and powdered sugar before adding the glaze.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
This Very Easy Lemon Cake is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Its bright, tangy flavor and moist texture make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy!