If you love desserts that balance rich creaminess with a bright, refreshing citrus twist, this Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This cake brings together moist, tender layers infused with fresh lemon zest and a dreamy mascarpone cream filling that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a special celebration or just craving a slice of sunshine, this cake hits all the right notes with its delightful texture and perfectly balanced flavors.

Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the cake’s texture, flavor, and that stunning lemony aroma.

All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake its tender crumb and structure.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Sugar: Sweetens and creates that perfect golden crust.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide lift.
Lemon zest: The star ingredient that infuses zesty, fresh lemon flavor throughout.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Heavy cream: Whipped to create the luscious cream filling.
Mascarpone cheese: Adds a silky, creamy texture with subtle tang.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream filling without graininess.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.

How to Make Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect baking temperature. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans generously to prevent sticking and allow the cakes to bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed, which means a fluffy cake every time.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming step is critical as it incorporates air, giving your cake its soft and airy crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Lemon Zest

Add the eggs one at a time to your creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the lemon zest now to infuse the batter with that vibrant citrus aroma.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until everything is smooth without overmixing, which keeps the cake tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool completely before moving on.

Step 7: Whip the Cream Filling

While the cakes cool, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold in the mascarpone cheese to create a lush, smooth filling that perfectly complements the lemony cake layers.

Step 8: Assemble and Chill

Spread a generous layer of the mascarpone cream filling between the two cake layers. Then cover the top with remaining cream. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the filling set beautifully.

How to Serve Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A truly special cake deserves equally special garnishes. For the Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe, fresh lemon slices, delicate edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar elevate its appearance and amplify the lemon theme.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a light cup of tea or a sparkling glass of Prosecco, perfect for balancing the creamy richness. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side can complement the cake’s flavors wonderfully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake in elegant individual portions—layered in glass jars or dessert cups with extra cream on top. It’s a stunning way to impress guests and make each serving feel like a personal treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once made, this cake keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy filling’s texture and the fresh lemon flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers (unfrosted) for up to a month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil; thaw completely before adding the mascarpone cream filling to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the cream slightly. Avoid heating as the cream filling may lose its texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon in this Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While lemon zest is traditional and provides a classic tang, you can experiment with orange or lime zest for a unique twist that still complements the creamy layers beautifully.

Is mascarpone cheese necessary for the cream filling?

Mascarpone gives the cream filling its signature velvety texture and subtle tang, but if you can’t find it, cream cheese is a decent substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s texture and structure.

What is the best way to zest a lemon for this recipe?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the yellow part of the lemon skin, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath for that fresh, bright lemon flavor.

How long does the assembled cake need to chill before serving?

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours so the filling firms up and the flavors come together perfectly, but you can also chill it overnight for even better results.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Lemon Cream Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients and a reminder of how a few key flavors paired perfectly can create something truly unforgettable. I can’t recommend it enough for your next gathering or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special. Go ahead, bake it, and watch everyone fall in love with every luscious bite!