Lemon Butter Bundt Cake

Lemon Butter Bundt Cake is a moist, buttery cake infused with bright lemon flavor and topped with a zesty glaze. Baked in a beautiful Bundt pan, this cake is as elegant as it is delicious, making it perfect for brunch, tea time, or any special occasion. With its rich texture and refreshing citrus notes, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and uplifting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Butter Bundt Cake is a citrus lover’s dream. It’s rich and tender thanks to plenty of butter, with lemon juice and zest providing a fresh burst of flavor in every bite. The glaze soaks into the cake, adding moisture and extra tang. It’s simple to prepare, easy to slice, and stays moist for days—ideal for gatherings or make-ahead desserts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze)
• Optional: lemon extract for more intense flavor

Directions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and flavoring: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and glaze: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack. Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–16
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Cooling time: 1 hour
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Blueberry Lemon Bundt: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking.
• Lemon poppy seed: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds for texture and visual flair.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend made for baking.
• Lemon-lime twist: Add lime zest and juice for a citrus blend.
• Cream cheese glaze: Use a cream cheese-based glaze for extra richness.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bring to room temperature before serving. If desired, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

What’s the secret to a moist Bundt cake?

Creaming the butter and sugar well, using buttermilk, and not overbaking are key.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Thoroughly grease and flour the Bundt pan, especially in the crevices.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well and can be made a day in advance.

Can I use a different pan?

Yes, a tube pan works, or divide into two loaf pans. Adjust baking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar stirred in.

How thick should the glaze be?

It should be pourable but not too thin. Add more lemon juice or powdered sugar to adjust.

Can I add fruit inside the cake?

Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries work well—just coat in flour before adding.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s balanced—rich and buttery with a sweet-tart glaze. You can reduce sugar slightly if preferred.

How do I make it extra lemony?

Add a teaspoon of lemon extract to intensify the citrus flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Bundt Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s full of sunny flavor and buttery goodness. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a festive occasion, this cake delivers timeless appeal and irresistible taste. With simple ingredients and elegant presentation, it’s a citrus-scented delight that’s sure to impress.

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