Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe: A Zesty and Decadent Dessert

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Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake Recipe: A Zesty and Decadent Dessert

Are you ready to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert? This Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake is the perfect combination of tangy lemon flavor and a moist, rich texture. Featuring a surprise tunnel of lemon pie filling and topped with a glossy lemon glaze, this dessert is as delicious as it is visually stunning.

Ingredients for Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake

For the Cake:

  • 1 box lemon cake mix (15–16 oz, your favorite brand)
  • 1 box lemon instant pudding mix (small)
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup whole milk (minus 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 can lemon pie filling

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1–3 teaspoons milk

How to Make Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, instant pudding mix, melted butter, milk, and fresh lemon juice.
  • Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, blend the ingredients until just mixed.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

  • Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
  • Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, then mix the batter on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Bundt Pan

  • Grease and flour a Bundt pan or tube pan, or spray it with non-stick cooking spray that includes flour.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Filling

  • Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  • Using a piping bag or spoon, add the lemon pie filling in a ring on top of the batter. Be careful not to spread the filling all the way to the edges or center of the pan.
  • Gently pour the remaining batter over the filling, spreading it to cover the filling completely.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  • Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. (It’s okay if the lemon pie filling sticks to the toothpick, as long as there’s no raw cake batter.)
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert it onto a serving dish to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

  • In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice.
  • Add milk one teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches your desired consistency (thick enough to drizzle).
  • If the glaze becomes too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar to adjust.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

  • Drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Pro Tips for Baking the Perfect Lemon Bundt Cake

  1. Room-Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and butter to ensure a smooth batter and better incorporation.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
  3. Tunnel Placement: Use a piping bag for the pie filling to keep it neatly in the center.

Frequently Asked Question

Q: Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of lemon pie filling?
A: Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd works beautifully in this recipe and adds an extra layer of freshness. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape during baking.

Conclusion

This Tunnel of Lemon Bundt Cake is a citrus lover’s dream come true. The tangy lemon filling, soft cake, and sweet glaze make it an irresistible dessert for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself.

Ready to bake this delightful cake? Try it out today, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends! 🍋✨