When it comes to Italian desserts, simplicity and flavor are key. This Lemon Cake is no exception, boasting a rich and creamy filling paired with a tender, buttery cake. The bright zest of lemon infuses the entire dessert with a refreshing citrus flavor that is both light and satisfying. With a luxurious mascarpone or Philadelphia cream, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a Sunday family gathering or a treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. Get ready to make this delightful cake a weekly tradition in your home!
Ingredients:
For the Cream Filling:
- Milk: 500 ml (about 2 cups)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Cornstarch: 4 tablespoons
- Sugar: 6 tablespoons
- Mascarpone or Philadelphia Cream Cheese: 80 g (about 3 oz)
- Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
For the Cake:
- Egg: 1 large
- Sugar: 120 g (about 1/2 cup)
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
- Flour: 320 g (about 2 1/2 cups)
- Baking Powder: 6 g (about 1 teaspoon)
- Butter: 140 g (about 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons), softened
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s just about to boil. Remove from the heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the mascarpone or Philadelphia cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue whisking until the cream is smooth and well combined.
- Transfer the cream filling to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until cool.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest and mix until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Add the softened butter and mix until the batter is smooth and creamy. The dough will be thick, more like a cookie dough than a typical cake batter.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Press one half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with your fingers or a spatula.
- Pour the cooled cream filling over the dough layer, spreading it evenly to the edges.
- On a floured surface, roll out the remaining dough into a circle the size of your cake pan. Carefully place it over the cream filling, pressing the edges to seal.
- Bake:
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the dough (not the cream) comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Once the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Serve slices with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful Italian-inspired treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Lemon Zest: Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor. Be sure to avoid the bitter white pith when zesting the lemon.
- Mascarpone Substitution: If you don’t have mascarpone, Philadelphia cream cheese is a great alternative, providing a similar creamy texture and slight tanginess.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be thick and pliable, but not sticky. If it’s too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up before rolling.
Nutritional Benefits:
This Lemon Cake is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a dessert that brings some nutritional benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune function and skin health. While the cake does contain sugar and butter, these can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The mascarpone or Philadelphia cheese adds calcium and protein, making this dessert slightly more nourishing than your average cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and juice gives this cake a fresh, vibrant flavor that is both sweet and tangy.
- Creamy Filling: The luscious cream filling adds a luxurious texture and richness that complements the light, buttery cake.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making this an easy go-to recipe when you’re in the mood for something sweet.
- Versatile: This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dessert, a tea-time treat, or a contribution to a potluck.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This cake is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products.
- Contains Dairy: The recipe includes milk, butter, and cheese, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
- Contains Gluten: The cake is made with regular flour, so it is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may differ.
Why This Recipe Works:
The secret to this cake’s success lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, tangy filling is encased in a buttery, tender cake that provides the perfect contrast. The lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the mascarpone, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. The dough, though rich with butter, is lightened by the baking powder, creating a delicate crumb that complements the smooth filling. Baking the cake until golden ensures a slight crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and luscious.
Conclusion:
This Italian Lemon Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings the taste of Italy right into your home. With its bright citrus flavor, creamy filling, and tender cake layers, it’s no wonder this cake is beloved in Italy and beyond. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it week after week, as it quickly becomes a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. So grab your lemons and get ready to bake—you’re about to discover your new favorite cake!