Introduction
If you love zesty lemon desserts with a rich, velvety texture, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is the perfect treat for you. With its moist crumb, tangy lemon flavor, and luscious cream cheese filling, this cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake—from ingredients and baking tips to storage and serving suggestions. Get ready to impress your family and guests with this decadent, bakery-quality dessert!
What Makes a Bundt Cake Special?
Unlike regular cakes, Bundt cakes are baked in a Bundt pan, which gives them a distinct ring shape with beautiful ridges. The Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake takes this up a notch by adding a deliciously creamy filling inside, making each bite a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bundt Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-12 cup Bundt pan with butter and flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter, avoiding the edges.
- Add the remaining cake batter on top, smoothing it out.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the cake (not the filling) comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- If too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk to adjust consistency.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Expert Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
- Use fresh lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing – This prevents the glaze from melting into the cake.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and a uniform texture.
- Refrigerate for a firmer texture – Cooling the cake enhances its flavors and sets the filling.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake pairs well with:
- Fresh berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast.
- Whipped cream – Adds a light, airy texture.
- Coffee or tea – Perfect for an afternoon treat.
Storing and Freezing Tips
How to Store
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 5-6 days in an airtight container.
How to Freeze
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Variations to Try
1. Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake
- Fold 1 cup of fresh blueberries into the batter for a berry-infused twist.
2. Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake
- Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for extra crunch.
3. Lemon Almond Bundt Cake
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cake pan?
Yes, but baking times may vary. A loaf pan or round cake pan may require adjustments.
2. Can I make this cake without cream cheese?
Yes, simply omit the cream cheese filling and increase the cake batter.
3. What’s the best way to prevent a Bundt cake from sticking?
Thoroughly grease the pan with butter and flour or use a non-stick baking spray.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container.
5. How can I make the glaze thicker?
Add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
Conclusion
The Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is a perfectly balanced dessert that brings together zesty lemon, rich cream cheese, and a buttery cake base. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this moist, tangy, and delicious cake is guaranteed to impress. Try different variations, experiment with toppings, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible homemade treat!
Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake: The Ultimate Guide to a Tangy and Creamy Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 10-20 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
Make this Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake! Moist, tangy, and creamy with a luscious filling. A perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bundt Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-12 cup Bundt pan with butter and flour or non-stick baking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter, avoiding the edges.
- Add the remaining cake batter, smoothing it out over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the filling) comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- If too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk to adjust consistency.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the drizzle.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap.
- Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra delicious touch.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes