Italian Lemon Cream Cake
A perfectly tangy dessert with a wonderful mix of sweetness and zest, ideal for celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Serves as the base for the cake, creating a soft and sturdy texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise and stay light.
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda Another leavening agent that ensures the cake is fluffy.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Adds richness and moisture.
- 1.25 cups granulated sugar Balances the other flavors.
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil Contributes to a moist and tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature Binds the ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For a deep, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature Adds moisture.
Crumb Topping
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour Acts as the base for the topping.
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold Helps create the crumbly texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon lemon zest For extra lemon flavor.
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract Complements the lemon flavor.
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Whipped into stiff peaks.
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature Forms the base of the filling.
- 2 cups powdered sugar For sweetness and thickening.
- 0.5 teaspoon lemon zest Adds zesty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Balances the richness.
Instructions
Cake Preparation
- Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar, then add oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine with the dry ingredients, alternating with milk.
Prepare Crumb Topping
- In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and lemon zest.
- Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
Prepare Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whip cream until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Fold in whipped cream gently.
Assemble Cake
- Layer the cake, filling it with lemon mascarpone cream, and topping with the crumb mixture.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Don't overmix the batter to keep the cake fluffy. Adjust the lemon zest according to your taste preference. For a twist, try adding fresh berries.