3-Ingredient Lemon Cake
If you’re on a Weight Watchers journey and craving something sweet yet simple, this 3-Ingredient Lemon Cake is the perfect treat. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward recipe, you can enjoy a delicious, tangy dessert without compromising your dietary goals. This cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delightful vanilla glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weekday treat, this cake will surely satisfy your lemon cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 15.25 ounces lemon cake mix (1 box)
- 5.3 ounces lemon Greek yogurt
- 1 cup water
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you place your cake inside, allowing for even baking.
- Prepare the Bundt Pan: Grease the inside of a bundt pan thoroughly. This prevents the cake from sticking and helps in achieving a smooth release once baked. You can use cooking spray or a small amount of oil for this purpose.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, lemon Greek yogurt, and water. Mix until the batter is smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. This cooling process is crucial for the cake to set properly and for the glaze to adhere well.
Making the Vanilla Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for more precise drizzling.
Serving
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into 12 equal slices and serve. Each slice is packed with lemony goodness and topped with the perfect amount of glaze.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cake
Ingredient Tips
- Lemon Cake Mix: Choose a good quality lemon cake mix for the best flavor. Brands vary in taste and texture, so pick one you enjoy.
- Lemon Greek Yogurt: If lemon Greek yogurt isn’t available, you can use plain Greek yogurt and add a teaspoon of lemon zest for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar before making the glaze to ensure it’s smooth and lump-free.
Baking Tips
- Even Mixing: Make sure all the ingredients are mixed thoroughly to avoid any lumps in the batter.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so check for doneness at the 30-minute mark.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, garnish the cake with lemon zest or thin slices of lemon.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake, but this may dry it out slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Yes, you can use plain Greek yogurt if lemon Greek yogurt is unavailable. Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to maintain the lemon flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have a bundt pan?
You can use a regular cake pan, but the baking time may vary. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark.
How can I make the cake more lemony?
For an extra lemony flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter or a tablespoon of lemon juice.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free lemon cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease the bundt pan thoroughly with cooking spray or oil. You can also lightly dust it with flour after greasing.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
This Weight Watchers 3-Ingredient Lemon Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that fits perfectly into a healthy eating plan. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a homemade treat that’s both delicious and satisfying. Happy baking!