Italian Lemon Cream Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the lemon cream filling, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the lemon cream filling over the top. Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining filling over the top and sides of the cake.
- To prepare the lemon glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: Approx. 350 kcal per slice
