Gluten-Free Easy Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake
A moist and citrusy bundt cake made simple with cake mix and enhanced with crunchy poppy seeds. The Betty Crocker lemon cake mix provides consistent results while the poppy seeds add delightful texture and nutty flavor. Finished with warm lemon frosting that drizzles beautifully down the fluted sides, this cake is perfect for spring gatherings, potlucks, or when you want homemade taste without the fuss. The microwave-warmed frosting creates an elegant glaze effect that makes this boxed cake look bakery-worthy.
Ingredients
- 1 box Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist Lemon Cake Mixvanilla cake mix + 2 tbsp lemon zest1:1
more control over lemon flavor
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons poppy seedsesame seeds1:1
similar crunch and nuttiness
- ½ cup Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy Lemon Frosting, from 1 tub (16 oz)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F and grease and flour 12-cup fluted tube cake pan, or spray with baking spray with flour
- 2
Make cake batter as directed on box except stir poppy seed into batter and pour into pan
- 3
Bake as directed on box for fluted tube pan
- 4
Cool in pan 15 minutes, then turn upside down onto heatproof serving plate and remove pan
- 5
Cool cake completely for about 1 hour
- 6
Microwave frosting uncovered on Medium 50% for 15 seconds in microwavable bowl
- 7
Spread frosting over top of cake, allowing some to drizzle down sides
- 8
Store loosely covered
Tips
Warm the frosting just enough to make it pourable but not hot, as too much heat will make it too thin
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the glaze from melting off
Place parchment paper under the serving plate while glazing for easy cleanup
Good to Know
Store loosely covered at room temperature for up to 3 days
Cake can be baked 1 day ahead and stored unfrosted, then glazed before serving
Serve at room temperature, cut with serrated knife for clean slices
Common Mistakes
Don't overheat the frosting or it will be too thin to coat properly
Don't rush cooling time or the frosting will slide off the warm cake
Substitutions
more control over lemon flavor
FAQ
Can I make this without poppy seeds?
Yes, simply omit them or substitute with sesame seeds or chopped nuts for texture
How long does this cake keep?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze unfrosted for up to 3 months
Can I use homemade frosting instead?
Absolutely, use any lemon glaze or cream cheese frosting, just warm slightly for drizzling effect