Limoncello Cake (Italy)

Recipe Overview 🍽️

History of the Recipe ✍️

Limoncello is a traditional liqueur from the Amalfi Coast and the Sorrento region of Italy, made from local lemons. This Limoncello cake is inspired by this famous liqueur and is often prepared during festive meals or celebrations in Italy. It captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in a light and delicious dessert.

Ingredients 🛒

listed in the order of use in the procedure:

• 250 g flour
• 200 g sugar
• 100 g melted butter
• 4 eggs
• 120 ml Limoncello (lemon liqueur)
• 1 packet of baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 50 ml milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Icing sugar (for decoration)

Steps (How to Make ) 🥣

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a cake pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and Limoncello. Mix well.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to form a smooth batter.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick— it should come out clean.
6. Cool and decorate: Let the cake cool before removing it from the pan. Dust with icing sugar, and if desired, add some lemon zest for a decorative touch.

Chef Tips 👨‍🍳

• For a stronger flavor, you can add a little more Limoncello to the cake after baking by gently brushing it on.
• The cake can also be served with whipped cream or a berry coulis for a tart touch.

Possible Variations 🎭

• Limoncello and Berries Cake: Add fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries) to the batter for a fresh twist.
• Limoncello and Mascarpone Cake: Top the cake with sweetened mascarpone mixed with a little Limoncello for a creamy effect.
• Limoncello and Almond Cake: Add sliced almonds to the batter for added crunch and richness.

Bake Time 🔥

Baking takes about 40 to 45 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

How to Store 🥡

Food and Drink Pairings 🥂

This cake pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of Limoncello or an Italian coffee like espresso.

Presentation Suggestion 🍽️

Serve the cake in slices, dusted with icing sugar and decorated with lemon zest or fresh fruit like berries for a fresh and elegant look.

Why It’s Healthy 💚

While this cake is not considered a “light” dessert in the strict sense, it is made with simple ingredients, without preservatives or additives, and provides a dose of vitamin C thanks to the lemons. The Limoncello also adds authenticity without being overly sweet.