When life hands you lemons, make Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting. This delightful dessert is not just a cake; it’s a burst of sunshine that dances on your taste buds, whispering sweet nothings with every forkful. Picture this: a moist lemony sponge that melts in your mouth, topped with creamy, dreamy mascarpone frosting that feels like a hug from your grandmother. herb roasted chicken and potatoes creamy chicken fettuccine recipe zesty lemon poppy seed muffins Each bite is like a mini-vacation to the Amalfi Coast, where the sun shines, and the lemons grow plump and juicy.
Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable summer BBQ last year when I first dazzled my friends with this showstopper. As I served up slices of my Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting, the room filled with gasps of delight and forks clinking against plates. It was as if I’d cracked the code to happiness itself! The laughter and joy shared around that table made me realize that this cake isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating memories. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting is impressively easy to whip up for any occasion
- Its refreshing and zesty flavor profile will leave everyone wanting more
- The stunning presentation makes it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or celebrations
- Versatile enough to be served at brunch or as a light dessert after dinner
I once brought this cake to a family reunion where it was devoured faster than Aunt Edna could tell her infamous potato salad story!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cake Flour: For the fluffiest texture, use cake flour; it helps achieve that delicate crumb we all love.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten things up! Look for fine sugar that dissolves easily into the batter.
- Lemons: Fresh lemons are key here for their vibrant zest and juice; organic is best if you can find them.
- Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy delight adds richness; don’t skimp on quality for the frosting! creamy orange truffles.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for optimal binding and moisture in the cake.
- Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for a perfect rise.
- Unsalted Butter: Always use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in your cake.
- Heavy Cream: For whipping into fluffy peaks in your frosting; it adds an airy texture.
- Limoncello Liqueur: Adds depth of flavor; feel free to adjust the amount depending on how zesty you want it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them well and lining with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes will do. The mixture should be pale and smooth.
Add Eggs and Lemon Juice: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each one fully incorporates before adding the next. Pour in fresh lemon juice and mix until combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually: Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while alternating with milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender crumb!
Bake Your Cakes!: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth out tops using a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown; they should spring back when gently pressed.
Prepare Mascarpone Frosting : In a large mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream while continuing to beat until soft peaks form, add sugar as desired for sweetness.
The aroma of baking cakes is irresistible! Once cooled completely, layer them generously with mascarpone frosting between them and on top, let it shine!
And there you have it! A slice of Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting ready to brighten your day or turn any gathering into an unforgettable event! Enjoy every zesty bite!
You Must Know
- This Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting is a delightful dessert that balances sweetness with a zing of lemon
- The rich mascarpone adds creaminess, while the limoncello provides a refreshing kick
- Perfect for any celebration or just because you need a slice of happiness!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake base while preparing the mascarpone frosting. Once cooled, frost generously for a luscious finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap limoncello with lemonade if you want a non-alcoholic version. Add fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise
- Don’t skip chilling the frosted cake; it helps set the flavors beautifully
- Always taste your frosting and adjust sweetness as needed for your preference
Baking this cake reminds me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air and desserts disappear faster than you can say “Limoncello.” The joy on everyone’s faces after their first bite is priceless!
FAQ
Can I use another type of alcohol instead of limoncello?
Yes, vodka or any citrus-flavored liqueur can work as substitutes.
How long does the Limoncello Cake last in the fridge?
The cake stays fresh in an airtight container for about five days.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for delicious results.
Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting
Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting is a zesty, refreshing dessert that captures the essence of summer with every bite. This delightful cake features a moist lemon sponge topped with rich mascarpone frosting, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Ideal for any occasion, this showstopper will brighten up your gatherings and leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup limoncello liqueur (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two greased and parchment-lined 9-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the lemon juice and zest.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with milk until just combined.
- Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the frosting, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth, then gradually add heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Once cooled, layer cakes with frosting in between and on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg