Lemon Cake from Italy

Why Make This Recipe

Italian Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the bright flavors of lemon with a perfectly moist texture. This cake is not only delicious but also easy to make. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, you may also enjoy the lemon drizzle cake with pistachio and blood orange.

How to Make Italian Lemon Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

The light flavor of lemon in this cake makes it a great choice for gatherings. For another fresh and fruity cake, consider trying the lemon-lime cherry pistachio cheesecake.

How to Serve Italian Lemon Cake

This cake can be served plain or topped with a light glaze. You can enhance the flavor by pairing it with fresh fruits like berries. Additionally, it can be complemented with a serving of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, similar to options found in rose pistachio cheesecake ice cream.

How to Store Italian Lemon Cake

To store your leftover Italian Lemon Cake, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. You may also find Italian Apple Cake Recipe useful.

Tips to Make Italian Lemon Cake

  1. Use fresh lemons for the best taste. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will elevate the flavor of the cake.
  2. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
  3. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the batter.

Variation

If you want to change things up, try adding poppy seeds to your batter to create a lemon-poppy seed cake. Alternatively, you could use a different citrus, like oranges or limes, for a unique twist. You may also find Tasty Italian Love Cake useful.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor may differ slightly.

Is it necessary to use milk?
Milk enhances the texture of the cake, but you can substitute with any non-dairy milk if preferred.

Can I freeze the Italian Lemon Cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic and store for up to three months.

Conclusion

Making your own Italian Lemon Cake is a simple yet rewarding endeavor. For those looking for more recipes, consider trying the Italian Lemon Olive Oil Cake or another classic with the Tablespoon Italian Lemon Cake Recipe. Enjoy your baking!

Print
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Italian Lemon Cake


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  • Author: anna
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful dessert combining bright lemon flavors with a moist texture, perfect for any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  5. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For the best taste, use fresh lemons and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Variations include adding poppy seeds or using other citrus fruits.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
Chef Anna

Written by Chef Anna

I'm Anna - a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, recipe developer, and the voice behind Chef Johns Gourmet. After a decade in professional kitchens, I now spend my mornings testing recipes and my afternoons writing them down so you can make them perfectly in your own kitchen. Every one of the 1,100+ recipes on this site has been personally cooked, tasted, and refined. I write like I'm standing next to you, walking you through every step. Simple recipes. Bold flavors. Made for real kitchens.

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