If you’ve been searching for a delightfully zesty yet comforting dessert, then this Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Packed with fresh lemon zest and juice, this cake boasts a tender crumb and buttery richness that feels both classic and refreshingly bright. It’s an ideal treat to enjoy any time you crave something sweet with a citrus twist, offering a perfect balance of flavors that feel lovingly homemade. Once you make this cake, you’ll understand why it’s cherished in Italian kitchens and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that builds the cake’s moist texture to the fresh lemon zest that infuses vibrant flavor. Here’s everything you need to gather before starting:

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups): Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
Large eggs (4, at room temperature): Bind the cake and add structure.
Lemon zest (2 tablespoons): Brings bright, aromatic citrus notes.
Fresh lemon juice (1/4 cup): Delivers fresh tartness that lifts the flavor.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall richness.
Whole milk or sour cream (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The base that gives the cake structure.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Leavens the cake for a light texture.

How to Make Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, and then grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step ensures your cake will come out easily without sticking. Having all your ingredients at room temperature, especially the eggs and butter, makes for a smoother batter and better rise.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, essential for a tender crumb and slight lift in your pound cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Beat in the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This gradual incorporation helps maintain the airy texture while preventing curdling.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest, Juice, and Vanilla

Mix in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. This is where your cake starts to shine with that gorgeous, fresh lemon aroma that makes this recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Milk and Dry Ingredients

Combine the all-purpose flour with salt and baking powder in a separate bowl. Then, alternating between adding the milk and the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, begin and end with the flour. Mix just until smooth to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top evenly. Bake for 65 to 75 minutes. If the cake’s top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare to Enjoy

Let your cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures your loaf firms up nicely and slices beautifully.

How to Serve Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes enhance the Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe’s vibrant citrus flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish. For an extra pop, drizzle a quick lemon glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice directly over the cooled cake.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries. These sides complement the cake’s tangy lemon flavor, making every bite feel indulgent yet fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve slices of Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe alongside a small bowl of mixed citrus segments or a spoonful of lemon curd. You can also cut the cake into smaller cubes for an elegant dessert platter or toast slices lightly for a warm treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it covered preserves its moisture and freshness so you can enjoy it as if just baked.

Freezing

Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

To gently warm your cake, place slices in a low oven (around 300°F) for about 10 minutes or microwave individual pieces for 15–20 seconds. Warming brings out the buttery aroma and fresh lemon notes to life again.

FAQs

Can I substitute sour cream for milk in this recipe?

Absolutely! Sour cream adds a slight tang and extra moisture, enhancing the cake’s tender crumb, so using it instead of milk is a great option.

How can I get a stronger lemon flavor?

For a bolder lemon punch, brush the warm cake with a homemade lemon syrup made from equal parts lemon juice and sugar, or add a light lemon glaze after baking.

Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs and butter?

Yes, room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and evenly, which leads to better texture and rise in your cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary. Adding a binder like xanthan gum can help maintain the structure similar to the original.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for about three days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Lemon Pound Cake Recipe is a joyous blend of tradition and bright citrus flavor that’s sure to brighten your baking repertoire. Its tender texture and vibrant lemon notes make it a delightful treat for any occasion. I can’t recommend it enough for sharing with loved ones or simply indulging yourself with a slice and a cup of tea. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s such a beloved classic!