Limoncello Mascarpone Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Delight Recipe
Limoncello Mascarpone Cake is a luscious, moist layered cake infused with the bright citrus flavor of limoncello and fresh lemon zest. The cake layers are tender and fluffy, complemented by a rich and creamy mascarpone frosting with a hint of sweetness and tang. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful afternoon treat, this cake offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and zesty brightness.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup limoncello
- Zest of 2 lemons
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Optional
- Additional limoncello for soaking
- Fresh berries or lemon slices for garnish
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cakes once baked.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy in texture, which helps to aerate the batter for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Then add the vanilla extract for flavor enhancing.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter mixture in portions, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients and mix until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Add Limoncello and Zest: Stir in the limoncello and freshly grated lemon zest until combined evenly to infuse the cake with citrus flavor and moisture.
- Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared 9-inch cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 30 minutes to set, then carefully transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely to room temperature.
- Make the Mascarpone Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the heavy cream and powdered sugar, continuing to beat until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy frosting.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Optionally, brush the top layer lightly with additional limoncello for extra moisture and flavor. Spread a generous amount of mascarpone frosting evenly over this layer.
- Top with Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and use the remaining mascarpone frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake smoothly and evenly.
- Garnish: Decorate the finished cake with fresh berries or lemon slices to add color, freshness, and a visual appeal.
- Serve: Cut the cake into slices and enjoy the bright, creamy, and indulgent slices of Limoncello Mascarpone Cake.
Notes
- This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the creamy mascarpone frosting fully.
- For a stronger limoncello flavor, soak each cake layer with limoncello before frosting.
- Ensure mascarpone and heavy cream are cold before whipping for best texture in frosting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Use fresh lemons for zest to get the brightest flavor.
Keywords: Limoncello cake, mascarpone frosting, lemon cake, Italian dessert, layered cake