Pin it
Transform ordinary cake mix into a vibrant summer treat packed with tangy lemon goodness. This cool, delightful cake blends sweet and tart flavors beneath creamy cheese frosting. What makes it special? The frozen lemonade concentrate that packs a zesty punch in every mouthful.
I've tested so many lemon cakes before settling on this one. Using concentrated lemonade really does the trick, giving you bold citrus taste that works every time.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Lemon cake mix (15.25 ounces): Go for Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker brands. Check that it has a fresh, zesty scent.
- Fresh eggs (3): Room temperature large grade A eggs give the best results.
- Vegetable oil (½ cup): Newly opened canola or standard vegetable oil works great.
- Water (1 cup): Use filtered water to avoid unwanted tastes.
- Frozen lemonade concentrate: Minute Maid or Simply Lemonade brands deliver top flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Sift it first for a velvety frosting texture.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces): Pick full-fat Philadelphia for the silkiest topping.
- Butter (½ cup): Choose European style for extra creaminess.
- Salt: A tiny bit cuts through sweetness nicely.
- Optional toppings: Fresh grated lemon peel or sugar-coated lemon slices add extra charm.
Crafting Your Zingy Lemonade Cake
- First Steps
- Bring everything to room temperature. Warm your oven to 350°F and put parchment in your pan with edges hanging out.
- Blending Your Batter
- Combine cake mix, eggs, oil and water in your mixing bowl. Mix for 2 minutes until everything looks smooth and well-blended.
- Into The Oven
- Empty batter into your lined pan and even out the surface. Tap the pan firmly on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake until a toothpick shows just a few crumbs.
- Flavor Boost
- While still hot, poke holes throughout the cake using a fork. Stir together lemonade concentrate with powdered sugar till smooth.
- The Soak
- Gradually pour your lemonade mixture over the hot cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes.
- Frosting Creation
- Whip cream cheese until fluffy, then add butter. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, lemonade concentrate and salt.
- Final Touches
- After cake cools fully, spread frosting using flowing motions. Create decorative swirls if you want.
Pin it
My grandma always told me warm cake drinks up flavor best. If you wait too long, the lemonade will just pool on top instead of soaking through.
Enjoying Your Creation
Chill the cake at least 4 hours or overnight. Take it out 20 minutes before you eat it. Cut with a warmed knife for tidy slices. For get-togethers, use a cold platter. Add some fresh mint for a pretty look.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with different lemonade types. Try pink lemonade for a sweeter, rosy cake. Add some mashed raspberries for fruity kick. Put fresh strawberry slices between layers for a summery treat.
Keeping It Fresh
Unfrosted cake stays good wrapped tight at room temp for a day. In the fridge, it lasts five days in a sealed container. Double wrap and freeze up to three months. Frosted cake must stay in the fridge up to five days covered. Single slices can freeze for one month. Don't leave cream cheese frosting out at room temperature.
Advance Preparation
Make and soak your cake up to 3 days early, Whip up the frosting 2 days before, Finish assembly within 4 hours of when you'll serve it.
After making this cake countless times, I've learned that proper cooling creates the best texture. Watching the tangy lemonade sink into each layer brings back memories of sunny afternoons making fresh-squeezed lemonade with my little ones.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will it stay fresh?
- It lasts 3 days in the fridge while staying moist from the lemonade.
- → What if I don't have frozen concentrate?
- You can reduce fresh lemonade as a substitute. Frozen concentrate gives the best flavor though.
- → Why poke holes in the cake?
- This helps the lemonade soak evenly through all the layers for added flavor.
- → Can I try a different cake mix?
- Absolutely! Yellow or white mixes are great, while lemon mix gives extra zest.
- → Should this be served cold?
- Yes, chilled makes it tastier! The frosting and lemonade work best cold.