Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 Cups All-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- Zest of two lemons
- 1 1/2 Cups Sugar (300g)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Milk (120ml)
- 1/2 Cup Limoncello (120ml)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (30ml)
- 2 Large Eggs, at room temperature
- 1 Cup Olive oil (240ml)
Additional
- 1 recipe Mascarpone frosting (prepared separately)
- 1 recipe Lemon curd (prepared separately)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Line a nine-inch cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides. Preheat your oven to 345°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation into the batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a measuring cup, mix the milk, limoncello, and lemon juice. This will add moisture and a bright citrus flavor to your cake.
- Incorporate Lemon Zest into Sugar and Eggs: Rub the lemon zest into the sugar to release its oils, then beat the sugar and eggs on medium-high speed for about one minute until smooth and slightly fluffy.
- Add Olive Oil and Wet Mix: With the mixer still on medium-high speed, gradually drizzle in the olive oil followed by the milk, limoncello, and lemon juice mixture. Beat until everything is well combined.
- Blend Dry Ingredients Gently: Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40-50 minutes. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent the cake from sinking. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Assemble: Let the cake cool completely and chill if possible. Place the cake onto a serving plate.
- Apply Mascarpone Frosting: Dollop the prepared mascarpone frosting onto the cake and use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly over the surface.
- Add Lemon Curd: Finish by dolloping or drizzling the prepared lemon curd over the mascarpone frosting for added citrus intensity and moisture.
Notes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute limoncello with equal parts milk or lemon syrup.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to achieve a lighter batter.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent the cake from collapsing.
- You can prepare mascarpone frosting and lemon curd a day ahead to save time.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor impact.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian