Description
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Italy with this heavenly homemade Cheesecake Factory-inspired Italian Lemon Cream Cake. A delightful combination of tangy lemon zest, creamy filling, and moist sponge, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling: 1 cup of heavy cream + 1/2 cup of lemon juice + lemon zest (optional)
For the icing: 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 lemon juice, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
Decoration: powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the filling, whip together heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest until thickened.
- For the icing, mix sugar, lemon juice, heavy cream, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Once the cakes are cooled, spread the lemon cream filling between the layers, then frost the top and sides with the lemon icing.
- For an optional finishing touch, dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For a more intense lemon flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon zest or juice.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
You can refrigerate the cake to firm up the filling before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Keywords: Italian Lemon Cream Cake, Cheesecake Factory, homemade dessert, lemon cake recipe, cream cake, baking recipe, Italian cuisine, vegetarian dessert, special occasion recipe.