Name: Irresistible Italian Lemon Cream Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 2½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1½ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for topping); ¼ cup powdered sugar (for topping); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for topping); Optional garnish: lemon zest, powdered sugar, white chocolate curls

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as elegant as it is irresistible, this Italian Lemon Cream Cake is the ultimate treat. Layers of soft, vanilla-scented cake are paired with a tangy lemon cream cheese filling and topped with fluffy whipped cream, creating a dessert that tastes as heavenly as it looks. Inspired by the famous Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake, this homemade version is fresh, zesty, and surprisingly easy to make.

Perfect for brunch, birthdays, or a cozy dinner finale, this lemon velvet cream cake is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require you to be a pastry chef. Just follow these steps and enjoy a dessert that’s creamy, airy, and bursting with lemon flavor. The combination of soft cake layers, rich filling, and fluffy topping makes this dessert a standout at any gathering.

Imagine the moment your guests take their first bite—their eyes light up as they relish the balance of sweet and tart flavors. Not only is this Italian Lemon Cream Cake pleasing to the palate, but it also makes for a stunning presentation with its layers elegantly stacked, begging to be devoured. Let’s dive in and discover why this cake deserves a spot on your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Lemon Cream Cake

Refreshing Flavor: The zestiness of lemon adds a refreshing touch that lightens up any meal.
Simple Ingredients: Create this cake using basic pantry staples without any complicated steps.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this cake is perfect for all occasions.
Delicate Texture: The soft vanilla cake layers combined with creamy filling make it a delight to eat.
Customizable: Add your own flair with garnishes and variations tailored to your preference.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, begin by preparing your workspace. Gather all your ingredients and tools before you start. You’ll need two round 9-inch cake pans, which will be key for layering the cake. Ensure these are greased and floured properly to prevent sticking. Next, bring out your electric mixer or stand mixer—this will be essential for whipping up the cake batter and cream fillings effortlessly.

Organize your mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons, so you can easily access them as you go along. A whisk and spatula will help in blending your mixtures, while an offset spatula is perfect for frosting your cake smoothly. Don’t forget to have your cooling racks ready, as allowing the cakes to cool properly will maintain their texture. For zesting lemons, a microplane zester will do the trick, ensuring you get the freshest flavor.

Ingredients

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup heavy whipping cream (for topping)
¼ cup powdered sugar (for topping)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for topping)
Optional garnish: lemon zest, powdered sugar, white chocolate curls

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to avoid any sticking. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside, as it will provide structure to your cake layers.

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, whipping them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the cake’s flavor.

Next, alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Start with a third of the dry mixture, followed by half the buttermilk, continuing to alternate until all ingredients are combined, being careful not to overmix.

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake in the oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s important to ensure there are no lumps in your cream cheese, so take your time during this process.

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese filling until well combined. This will give the filling its airy, creamy texture, perfect for layering.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Topping

For the whipped topping, whip together another cup of heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This topping will add that luxurious finish to your cake. Set it aside in the refrigerator to keep it chilled until you are ready to frost your cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

If you desire thinner layers, you can slice each cooled cake layer horizontally in half. Begin by placing one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the lemon cream filling over the first cake layer, then carefully place the next layer on top.

Repeat this process for additional layers, if any, until all cake layers are stacked. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the entire cake with the whipped topping. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra lemon zest, a dusting of powdered sugar, or decorative white chocolate curls. Chill the assembled cake for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Variations

Protein: Add slices of lemon-flavored chicken or shrimp as a savory accompaniment to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Vegetables: Serve with fresh salads featuring lemon vinaigrettes that echo the lemon notes in the cake.
Spices: Experiment with a pinch of cardamom or a twist of ginger for extra warmth and complexity.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for the best results.
Do not overmix your batter, as this can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
If you want to save time, consider using a boxed cake mix for the cake layers and adding your lemon cream filling and topping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Italian Lemon Cream Cake with a light fruit salad for a refreshing finish.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato to complement the citrus flavors.

Tips

For a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of lemon zest or juice.
Try using a lemon-flavored cake mix to enhance the cake’s lemon flavor even further.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where the cake can stay fresh for about three days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 280 per slice
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers up to a day in advance. Store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge until you are ready to assemble.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative or a rich coconut cream for the filling.

How should I store leftover cake?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about three days.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Italian Lemon Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Its creamy filling and light texture balance out the sweetness, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a special dinner, this cake will add a touch of elegance to your table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the garnishes and variations to make the cake your own. After trying this recipe, we’d love to hear your thoughts and any twists you added. Share your experiences, comments, and photos, and let’s celebrate the joy of baking together!