Name: Lemon Sunshine Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pkg (18.25 oz) yellow cake mix; 1 pkg (3 oz) lemon gelatin; ¾ cup cooking oil; 4 eggs; ¾ cup water; 2 cups powdered sugar; Juice and grated rind of 2 lemons.

Jump to Recipe

This Lemon Sunshine Cake is a cheerful dessert that’s bursting with citrus flavor. Made with yellow cake mix and lemon gelatin, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. The cake is moist and fluffy, with a refreshing lemony kick, thanks to the combination of lemon gelatin in the batter and a tangy lemon icing poured over the top. The icing seeps into the cake through small fork holes, creating a sweet and tart flavor that brightens every bite.

Perfect for spring and summer gatherings or whenever you need a little burst of sunshine, this cake is simple to make but big on flavor. Serve it with whipped cream or a dollop of lemon curd for an extra indulgent treat.

Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.

Links to find other recipes:

Lemon Sunshine Cake

Food History

Lemon-flavored desserts have been popular for centuries, especially in European baking, where lemons were highly prized for their tangy brightness. By the 20th century, cake mixes and gelatin desserts became staples in American households, making it easier than ever to create lemon-flavored cakes without starting from scratch.

The practice of poking holes in cakes and pouring glaze or syrup over them became popular in the mid-20th century, as it ensured extra moisture and intense flavor. This Lemon Sunshine Cake reflects the trend of combining convenience ingredients like cake mix and gelatin with fresh elements like lemon juice and zest to create homemade desserts with bold flavors.

Timeline

1700s: Lemons are widely used in European baking for their tart flavor.
1940s-1950s: Boxed cake mixes and gelatin become widely available, revolutionizing home baking.
Mid-20th century: “Poke cakes” gain popularity as a way to infuse cakes with flavor and moisture.
Present day: Lemon cakes remain a classic and beloved dessert for all occasions.

Recipe Discussion

This Lemon Sunshine Cake is closest to a lemon poke cake or glazed lemon sheet cake. The use of yellow cake mix and lemon gelatin creates a moist, flavorful cake with a vibrant lemon flavor. The technique of poking holes into the baked cake and pouring icing over the top ensures that every bite is infused with the tangy sweetness of the lemon glaze.

The icing, made with powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements the richness of the cake. The result is a dessert that’s light, airy, and packed with citrusy goodness. It’s baked in a 9×13-inch pan, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.

Preparation Tips

Grease the pan well: Ensure the cake doesn’t stick by thoroughly greasing and flouring your 9×13-inch pan.
Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give the icing the best flavor.
Make the icing immediately: Prepare the icing while the cake is still hot so it can seep into the cake properly.
Poke evenly: Use a fork or skewer to evenly poke holes across the entire surface of the cake for even absorption of the icing.
Cool before serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts and better texture.
Add whipped cream: Serve slices with whipped cream or lemon curd for extra indulgence.

Recommended Kitchen Products

The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.

9×13-Inch Baking Pan: A high-quality non-stick pan ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Citrus Juicer: Perfect for squeezing fresh lemon juice quickly and efficiently.
Microplane Zester: Great for grating lemon zest finely for the icing.
Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking, preventing soggy edges.

Serving Suggestions

With whipped cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and creamy addition.
Fresh fruit garnish: Serve with fresh berries or lemon slices for extra color and flavor.
As a picnic dessert: Pack this cake for a refreshing treat at summer picnics or barbecues.
For a birthday cake: Decorate with candied lemon slices or extra zest for a festive touch.
Make it indulgent: Drizzle with additional lemon glaze or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

A Slice of Sunshine for Any Occasion

This Lemon Sunshine Cake is the perfect dessert to brighten your day. Its vibrant lemon flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for all kinds of occasions, from casual get-togethers to celebratory meals. With its easy preparation and delicious results, this cake is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection. Try it today and enjoy the sweet taste of sunshine!

Start Your Recipe Box

Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
View Recipe Cards and Templates
View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves

Vintage Goodies

Lemon Sunshine Cake Recipe

12-15 Servings

Lemon Sunshine Cake

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

A moist and flavorful Lemon Sunshine Cake made with yellow cake mix, lemon gelatin, and a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a refreshing dessert any time.

No Ratings

Ingredients

1 pkg (18.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 pkg (3 oz) lemon gelatin
¾ cup cooking oil
4 eggs
¾ cup water

Icing:

2 cups powdered sugar
Juice and grated rind of 2 lemons.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl beat first 5 ingredients with electric mixer at low speed until moistened.
Beat at medium speed 3 minutes more.
Pour into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
Bake in a preheated electric oven at 350° for 35 to 40 minutes or until cake tests done.
Immediately poke holes into top of hot cake with fork.
Mix powdered sugar, lemon juice & rind.
Pour icing over hot cake.
Serve with whipped cream or as is.