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Lemoncello cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty freshness of lemons with the sweetness of a moist, tender cake.

Topped with a light lemony icing and fresh lemon zest, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

The bright, citrus flavors make it a refreshing treat that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the cake:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup lemoncello liqueur
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the icing:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For garnish:
  • Additional lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the dry ingredients (5 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar (5 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemoncello liqueur, milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients (5 minutes): Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Bake the cake (25-30 minutes): Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Prepare the icing (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. If the icing is too thick, add more lemon juice a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Stir in the lemon zest.
  7. Ice the cake (5 minutes): Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the lemony icing over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle additional lemon zest over the top for garnish.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Lemoncello Cake with Light Lemony Icing as a refreshing and delightful dessert!

Notes

For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can brush the cake with additional lemoncello liqueur before icing it.

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors of this lemoncello cake as a perfect finish to any meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition