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+ servings

Classic Lemon Poke Cake

A refreshingly tangy lemon poke cake perfect for summer gatherings, bursting with citrus flavor and topped with creamy frosting.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Cake Base
  • 1 box yellow cake mix plus ingredients called for on box (eggs, oil, water)
Lemon Syrup
  • 6 ounces frozen lemonade concentrate thawed
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
Topping
  • frosting store-bought or homemade, such as cream cheese or buttercream
  • sprinkles optional for decoration

Method
 

Bake the Cake
  1. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
Make the Lemon Syrup
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the thawed lemonade concentrate and powdered sugar until smooth.
Poke and Soak
  1. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a long-pronged fork, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake.
  2. Slowly pour the lemon syrup evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
  3. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the cake is chilled and has absorbed the syrup.
Decorate and Serve
  1. Frost the cake with your choice of frosting and add sprinkles if desired.
  2. Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy cold.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 380mgSugar: 38g

Notes

For a more intense lemon flavor, use fresh Meyer lemon juice mixed with a little sugar instead of concentrate. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the powdered sugar to 1/2 cup. This cake can be made a day ahead; just refrigerate it covered until serving. Make sure to poke holes deeply enough so the syrup penetrates the entire cake. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a California twist, top with sliced almonds or a dollop of whipped cream.

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