Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
¼ cup Limoncello liqueur
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ cup whole milk
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp Limoncello liqueur
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
For Garnish:
Fresh lemon slices
Lemon zest
Powdered sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Stir in the Limoncello, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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 it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, Limoncello, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and light.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the mascarpone frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
Garnish with fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.