The 12 Spoons Italian Cake is a delightful and easy dessert that brings a taste of Italy to your home. This cake is incredibly simple to make, requiring no scale and using only basic ingredients that are measured with a spoon. The result is a light, fluffy cake with a hint of lemon that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ideal for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike, this recipe is a stress-free way to enjoy a homemade cake. The combination of lemon zest and juice gives it a refreshing flavor, while the light dusting of icing sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it with tea or as a dessert, this cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious taste.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 12 tablespoons sugar
- 12 tablespoons oil
- 12 tablespoons milk
- 12 tablespoons flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Zest of a lemon
- Juice of half a lemon
- Icing sugar for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until they are fluffy.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined.
- Mix in the oil, milk, and lemon zest.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder, then add this to the mixture.
- Finally, stir in the lemon juice until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 20cm cake mold.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, then dust with icing sugar before serving.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake. Beating them well ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s structure and browning.
- Oil: Keeps the cake moist. You can use vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or even olive oil for a slightly different flavor.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together. Whole milk is preferred for a richer taste.
- Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure. All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Provide a fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake. The zest contains essential oils that add a deeper lemon flavor, while the juice adds a bit of tanginess.
- Icing Sugar: Used for decoration, adding a touch of elegance and additional sweetness to the cake.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them to combine more easily and evenly.
- Beating the Eggs: Beat the eggs and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Gentle Mixing: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before dusting it with icing sugar. This prevents the sugar from melting into the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Classic: Simply dust with icing sugar and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
- With Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a burst of freshness.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side can add a luxurious touch.
- Ice Cream: Pairing a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful dessert.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
The 12 Spoons Italian Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Its straightforward ingredient list and simple preparation make it a perfect recipe for both novice bakers and experienced chefs. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your family, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Its light, fluffy texture and refreshing lemon flavor make it a delightful treat that embodies the charm and simplicity of Italian baking.