Name: Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, divided; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs, separated; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup hot water

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If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful treat magically transforms as it bakes, forming a light, fluffy lemon cake layer sitting atop a luscious, silky lemon pudding sauce. The bright citrus tones balance perfectly with the cozy texture, making it an irresistible comfort dessert that shines by itself or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream gently melting on top. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites for its brilliant simplicity and incredible flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. On the board, there are three whole yellow lemons and one lemon cut in half, showing its bright inner flesh. Next to the lemons, a small cube of butter sits in the center. Nearby, a small white bowl is filled with granulated white sugar, and beside it, a white bowl contains thick white cream or yogurt. In front of the board, on the white marbled surface, two light brown eggs rest close together. A metal measuring cup filled with white flour sits nearby, completing the layout of ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All you need for this Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe are simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each item plays an important role, from the tangy fresh lemon juice and zest that brighten the flavor, to the eggs and milk that ensure a tender crumb and smooth pudding beneath.

Granulated sugar (1 cup, divided): Provides the perfect balance of sweetness and helps form the cake and pudding layers.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Adds richness and tenderness to the cake top.
Milk (1 cup): Keeps the batter moist and helps create the pudding texture underneath.
Eggs (2 large, separated): Egg yolks enrich the batter while whipped egg whites lighten the cake for that fluffy top layer.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the lemon’s brightness with a subtle warmth.
Fresh lemon juice (1/3 cup): Delivers vibrant citrus flavor that makes this dessert so refreshing.
Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the lemon aroma and adds little bursts of flavor.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure to the cake layer.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Hot water (1 cup): Poured over the batter to create the pudding layer beneath the cake.

How to Make Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, which will give your cake a perfect non-stick finish and make serving easier.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key as it incorporates air that helps develop a delicate texture for the cake layer.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings

Next, beat in the egg yolks one at a time. Then stir in the milk, vanilla extract, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and zesty lemon peel. This mixture forms the vibrant and moist base for your cake layer.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution, preventing any lumps or uneven rising.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. This will guarantee a consistent texture throughout your lemon cake pudding.

Step 6: Whip Egg Whites to Soft Peaks

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Then, slowly add the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Folding these fluffy whites into the batter is what creates the signature lightness of the cake layer.

Step 7: Fold Egg Whites Into Batter

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them. This delicate folding keeps your cake airy and tender once baked.

Step 8: Pour Batter and Add Hot Water

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Now, here’s the magic part: carefully pour 1 cup of hot water evenly over the top of the batter without stirring. This technique causes the pudding layer to form beneath the cake as it bakes.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is lightly golden and set. You’ll notice the pudding has thickened underneath, offering a perfect balance of fluffy and creamy in every bite.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe is best enjoyed right out of the oven. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s bright, comforting, and downright delicious.

How to Serve Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe

Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty snowy finish, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon pudding cake. Fresh mint leaves or thin lemon slices can also brighten up the presentation and add a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a light cup of tea or coffee, offering a perfect balance to its moist sweetness. If you want to create a fuller dessert experience, consider fresh berries on the side to complement the citrus notes or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe in individual ramekins instead of a large baking dish. This makes it feel extra special for guests or intimate dinners. You can also drizzle a little honey or lemon syrup on top before serving for an added luscious finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days. Just know the pudding layer will thicken a bit as it sits, making it almost custard-like.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. It’s important to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly different, but it’s still a delightful treat.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, gently heat in the microwave or oven at a low temperature, just until warmed through. Avoid overheating as it may cause the pudding layer to dry out or become uneven. A quick sprinkle of lemon zest after reheating can freshen the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest and most vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s pure lemon juice without added sugars or preservatives.

Why do I pour hot water on the batter?

The hot water is essential to create the pudding layer underneath the cake. When poured carefully on top, it sinks below the batter during baking and reacts with the ingredients to form the silky puddingly texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or similar binders to maintain the cake’s structure.

Is it necessary to separate the eggs?

Separating the eggs allows you to whip the egg whites to stiff peaks, which adds airiness and fluff to the cake layer. It’s a key step for achieving the signature light texture.

How long does the cake stay moist?

This dessert is best served warm and fresh, as the pudding layer gives it a moist texture. Leftovers stored in the fridge may thicken and lose some of the delicate contrast, so warming gently before serving helps restore its creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Warm Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels both cozy and refreshing at the same time. It’s a joy to make and an absolute delight to eat, with its two-layer wonder of fluffy cake and smooth pudding hidden beneath. I truly encourage you to try it the next time you want to impress yourself or loved ones with something brilliantly simple, bright, and supremely comforting.