Lemon Poke Cake Recipe

Bright, zesty, and impossibly moist, Lemon Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that vanishes before you know it! This recipe transforms a few pantry staples, a splash of lemon, and a simple glaze into a sweet treat that’s both cheerful and crowd-pleasing. Each slice delivers a tender crumb soaked through with tangy lemon flavor, making it a perfect ending for any meal or a sunny pick-me-up snack. If you’ve never tried a poke cake before, this easy bake will have you wondering why you waited so long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Lemon Poke Cake is how its vibrant flavor comes together with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Each item on the list brings something special to the table, whether it’s sweetness, structure, or that signature citrus pop.

• Yellow cake mix: Provides a fluffy, buttery base that’s ready in minutes but tastes homemade.
• Instant lemon pudding mix: Infuses the cake with extra moisture and a bright, lemony punch.
• Water: Keeps the batter light and ensures the cake stays moist.
• Vegetable oil: Adds richness and contributes to the soft texture.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and give your cake structure and lift.
• Lemon juice: The real star of the show—adds tang and flavor both in the glaze and throughout the cake.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Combines with lemon juice for that irresistibly tart, sweet glaze that soaks the cake.

How to Make Lemon Poke Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan—this trick guarantees your Lemon Poke Cake will turn out in one beautiful piece, making slicing and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix and instant lemon pudding mix. Next, add your water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix everything until the batter is smooth, glossy, and no dry streaks remain. You’ll notice the batter gets a sunny hue from the pudding—already smelling wonderful!

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly to the corners. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it toward the end: a toothpick poked into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.

Step 4: Poke and Glaze

While the cake is still piping hot from the oven, use a fork to poke holes all over the top. This is the “poke” part of Lemon Poke Cake magic! In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour the glaze over the hot cake, letting it seep into every nook and cranny for that signature moist, lemony finish.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your cake cool completely—this gives the glaze time to soak in and the flavors to mingle. Once cool, slice and enjoy as is, or finish with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Lemon Poke Cake

Garnishes

Dress up your cake by topping each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh lemon zest, or a few berries instantly takes it from simple to stunning. The glaze alone brings plenty of flavor, but these little extras make every bite a party.

Side Dishes

Lemon Poke Cake is lovely on its own, but if you’re looking to serve it alongside something, try a bowl of mixed fresh fruit or a light fruit salad. For a more indulgent spread, include a scoop of lemon sorbet or pair with hot tea for an afternoon treat that’s as cozy as it is uplifting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into small cubes and layering them in parfait glasses with whipped topping and berries for a showstopping dessert trifle. If you’re hosting, serve Lemon Poke Cake squares on a pretty platter with tiny forks or package individual slices in parchment for picnic-friendly sweets. It’s as versatile as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator. The cake stays incredibly moist for up to 4 days—and some say it gets even better as the glaze continues to infuse the crumb. Keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

Lemon Poke Cake freezes beautifully. Once fully cooled and glazed, cut into squares, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw individual pieces in the fridge or on the counter. It’s a delightful surprise to pull out for last-minute guests or late-night cravings!

Reheating

This cake is wonderful straight from the fridge, but if you prefer it warm, microwave individual servings for 10-15 seconds. The glaze gets slightly gooey, and the cake comes out soft and fragrant—like it’s fresh from the oven all over again. Avoid overheating to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! Lemon or white cake mix will work in place of yellow, though yellow cake mix adds a cozy richness that pairs nicely with the lemon flavor. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or your favorite combinations.

Can I make Lemon Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this cake is even better when made a day in advance because the glaze has more time to soak in and intensify the flavor. Just be sure to refrigerate until serving.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

A regular dinner fork works perfectly, creating just the right size holes for the glaze to seep in. Be generous and poke all over the surface, but don’t go all the way through to the bottom of the pan.

Does Lemon Poke Cake need to be refrigerated?

For the freshest flavor and to keep the glaze just right, store your cake, covered, in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even more refreshing when chilled, especially on warm days.

Can I add extra lemon to make it more tart?

Definitely! For extra pucker, add lemon zest to the glaze or batter, or increase the lemon juice a little in the glaze. Taste and adjust to get just the right level of tang for you.

Final Thoughts

If you love a dessert that brings sunshine to every bite, give this Lemon Poke Cake a try. It’s incredibly easy, always a hit, and sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. Treat yourself and share a slice—or two—with someone special!

Print