Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is a bright, refreshing dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with a rich, buttery texture. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, citrusy treat. It’s gooey, buttery, and absolutely delicious—an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lemon cake mix
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the lemon cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Pour the cake batter into a greased baking dish.
- Prepare the butter mixture according to the package instructions.
- Pour the butter mixture over the cake batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and the top is set.
- Serve warm and enjoy your gooey lemon butter cake!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
- Berry Twist: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries on top before baking for a fruity variation.
- Cream Cheese: Mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese for added richness and a tangy flavor contrast.
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) over the cake after baking for an extra lemony touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different twist.
- Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon zest? While lemon juice will add flavor, zest gives a stronger lemon flavor. You can use a combination of both for an even more intense lemon flavor.
- Can I prepare the cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. Store it at room temperature and reheat before serving.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven after thawing.
- Is this cake gluten-free? No, this cake is made with a regular cake mix. You could use a gluten-free cake mix to make it gluten-free.
- How do I know when the cake is done? The cake is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- What if I don’t have lemon zest? You can substitute lemon zest with a small amount of lemon extract, but the flavor will be less intense.
- Can I add frosting to this cake? While the cake is gooey and flavorful on its own, you could add a light lemon frosting or whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- How can I make the cake more gooey? To achieve a gooier texture, make sure you use the butter mixture according to the package instructions and pour it evenly over the batter.
- What should I serve this cake with? Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Gooey Lemon Butter Cake is a simple, indulgent dessert that’s bursting with the fresh flavor of lemon. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for a special occasion or a quick dessert for a weeknight, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. The gooey texture and bright lemon flavor make it a delightful choice for any lemon lover. Enjoy!