Lemon Refrigerator Cake is a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want a sweet and tangy treat. This no-bake cake combines layers of angel food cake, lemon pudding, yogurt, lemon curd, and whipped topping for a delightful and easy-to-make dessert. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 large angel food cake (baked)
- 1 (3.5 ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 12 oz vanilla or lemon yogurt
- 11 oz jar lemon curd
- 1 (12 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Angel Food Cake
- Tear the Cake:
- Tear the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Pudding
- Mix Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until the pudding is smooth and thickened. This usually takes about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Pudding and Yogurt
- Add Yogurt:
- Fold the 12 oz of vanilla or lemon yogurt into the prepared lemon pudding until well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Cake
- First Layer:
- In a large trifle dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the torn angel food cake pieces to cover the bottom.
- Second Layer:
- Spread half of the lemon pudding and yogurt mixture over the layer of cake pieces.
- Third Layer:
- Drop spoonfuls of half the lemon curd over the pudding mixture and gently spread to create an even layer.
- Fourth Layer:
- Spread half of the Cool Whip over the lemon curd layer.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining cake pieces, pudding mixture, lemon curd, and Cool Whip, finishing with a layer of Cool Whip on top.
Step 5: Chill the Cake
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cake is well chilled, slice and serve. Enjoy this light and refreshing lemon refrigerator cake with family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Angel Food Cake: You can use store-bought or homemade angel food cake for this recipe.
- Yogurt: Vanilla or lemon-flavored yogurt works best, but you can use plain yogurt with a touch of extra lemon zest for more flavor.
- Lemon Curd: Ensure the lemon curd is well spread for even flavor distribution.
Variations
Berry Lemon Refrigerator Cake
- Add Berries:
- Add a layer of fresh berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries between the cake and pudding layers for added flavor and texture.
Coconut Lemon Refrigerator Cake
- Add Coconut:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut between the layers and on top of the cake for a tropical twist.
Gluten-Free Lemon Refrigerator Cake
- Use Gluten-Free Cake:
- Substitute the angel food cake with a gluten-free cake for a gluten-free version of this dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Desserts
- With Fresh Fruit:
- Serve the lemon refrigerator cake with a side of fresh fruit for a complete dessert.
Beverages
- With Iced Tea:
- Pair the cake with a glass of iced tea for a refreshing combination.
- With Lemonade:
- Serve with a cold glass of lemonade for an extra lemony treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, this cake is best made ahead of time to allow it to chill and set properly. Prepare it the night before or at least 4 hours before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover lemon refrigerator cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use homemade lemon curd? A: Yes, homemade lemon curd can be used in place of store-bought for a more homemade touch.
Q: Can I use a different flavor of pudding? A: While lemon pudding complements the lemon curd best, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or coconut pudding for a different twist.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: This cake is best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator, but you can freeze it if needed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Lemon Refrigerator Cake is a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of angel food cake, lemon pudding, yogurt, lemon curd, and whipped topping, this cake is sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dessert is easy to make and always delightful. Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat with your family and friends!