Indulge in the rich tradition of Italian baking with this beloved Italian cake that has captured the hearts and palates of people worldwide. This cake is celebrated for its simplicity, requiring just a few basic ingredients that come together to create a dessert that’s both elegant and utterly delicious. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delectable treat in no time. With a crumbly, buttery crust and a creamy, lemon-infused filling, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 130g sugar
- Grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 125g cold butter
- 350g flour
- 5g baking powder
For the Cream Filling:
- 500ml hot milk
- Zest from half a lemon
- 2 eggs
- 60g sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until they are slightly frothy.
- Add the sugar and grated lemon zest to the eggs, mixing until well combined. The lemon zest adds a fresh citrus aroma that’s essential to the flavor of the cake.
- Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the mixture. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the mixture, continuing to mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth but not sticky.
- Form the Crust:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first half on a lightly floured surface to fit your baking pan. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to your pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom and up the sides to form the crust.
- Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk with the lemon zest until it’s warm but not boiling. The lemon zest infuses the milk with a subtle citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cream.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the cream thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove the cream from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour the prepared cream filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Roll out the second half of the dough and carefully place it over the cream filling. Seal the edges by pressing them together, ensuring the cream is fully enclosed.
- Use a fork to poke a few holes in the top of the dough, allowing steam to escape as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan before slicing.
- Serve:
- Once cooled, slice the cake into pieces and serve. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and is best enjoyed with loved ones.
Cooking Tips:
- Cold Butter: Using cold butter is crucial for achieving a crumbly, tender crust. If the butter is too soft, the dough may become greasy and lose its structure.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest is key to the cake’s flavor. Make sure to only grate the yellow part of the lemon peel, as the white pith can be bitter.
- Cream Consistency: The cream filling should be thick enough to hold its shape when sliced but still creamy and smooth. Be sure to stir continuously while cooking to avoid lumps.
Nutritional Benefits:
While this cake is undeniably indulgent, it also contains some nutritional benefits. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as vitamin D and B12. Lemon zest adds a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for immune health. The use of whole ingredients like milk, butter, and flour ensures that this cake is more wholesome compared to those made with processed or artificial ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll fall in love with this Italian cake because of its delightful balance of textures and flavors. The buttery, crumbly crust complements the smooth, creamy lemon filling, creating a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing. Its simplicity makes it accessible for all levels of bakers, yet the result is impressive enough to serve on special occasions. The bright lemon flavor is perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that is sweet without being overly sugary, and the recipe can easily be adapted with different fillings to suit your taste.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat or gelatin.
- Contains Dairy: The recipe includes butter and milk, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
- Contains Gluten: The flour used in the crust contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe works because it combines simple, high-quality ingredients in a way that highlights their natural flavors. The cold butter is cut into the flour to create a flaky, tender crust, while the lemon zest adds a fragrant citrus note that brightens the entire cake. The cream filling, made with milk, eggs, and sugar, is cooked to a perfect consistency, providing a rich, custard-like center that contrasts beautifully with the crisp crust. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the contrast between the crumbly exterior and the creamy filling, makes this cake an irresistible treat.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Italian cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, traditional baking. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that is deeply satisfying, both in flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to impress. Its quick preparation and minimal ingredient list make it an easy choice for busy bakers who still want to deliver something truly special. Try this recipe and experience the joy of baking a cake that is loved by so many around the world.