Bright Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe

A well-made lemon Bundt cake should be fragrant before it’s even sliced,bright, balanced, and quietly elegant. This recipe is built on classical technique, using fresh lemon zest and juice to create depth rather than sharpness. The result is a tender, finely textured cake with a clean citrus finish that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients List

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp lemon zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bundt Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter and flour a 10–12 cup Bundt pan, ensuring all crevices are well coated.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes. This step ensures a light, even crumb.

4. Incorporate Eggs and Flavor

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Blend in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.

5. Combine Batter

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until smooth.

6. Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

7. Glaze the Cake

Whisk glaze ingredients until silky. Drizzle over the warm cake once unmolded, allowing it to gently soak in.

Cook Time

Total: 55–60 minutes
Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 45–50 minutes

Servings

Serves 10–12

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: ~340
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Protein: ~5g
• Fat: ~16g
• Sugar: ~28g
• Fiber: ~1g

Storage Instructions

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 6 days for extended freshness. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Suggestions

• Brush the warm cake with a light lemon syrup before glazing for extra moisture.
• Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for subtle texture.
• Serve with lightly whipped cream or fresh berries for an elegant presentation.
• For deeper citrus notes, combine lemon zest with a small amount of orange zest.

Seasonal Relevance

This lemon Bundt cake shines in spring and summer when citrus flavors feel especially refreshing, yet it remains a welcome contrast to richer desserts during fall and winter gatherings. Its brightness makes it versatile across seasons and occasions.

Conclusion

The Bright Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe is a study in restraint and refinement,soft crumb, clear citrus flavor, and a graceful finish. Crafted with professional technique and thoughtful balance, it’s a cake designed to impress without excess. Whether served at brunch, afternoon tea, or as a refined dessert, it delivers consistent elegance.