Description
This exquisite Italian layer cake features a bright, bold lemon flavor balanced by a decadent yet airy cream cheese filling and a cloud-like whipped cream frosting. Utilizing buttermilk for a tender crumb, this cake is the perfect impressive centerpiece for any celebration or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Zest and juice of 2 large lemons, divided
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for filling)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for topping)
- White chocolate curls, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans and line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture looks pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter equally between your pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on wire racks.
- To make the filling, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and juice until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the lemon mixture.
- To make the topping, whip the remaining heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assembly: Slice the cooled cakes horizontally to create four thin layers, if desired. Spread the filling generously between layers, then frost the outside of the cake with the whipped topping.
- Finish the cake with white chocolate curls and extra lemon zest for garnish.
Notes
For the smoothest possible texture in both the cake batter and the cream cheese filling, ensure that your dairy ingredients—butter, eggs, cream cheese, and buttermilk—are truly at room temperature before mixing. Additionally, wait until the cake is fully assembled and chilled before slicing for serving; this prevents the delicate whipped cream from melting and ensures sharp, clean wedges.
- Prep Time: 40 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Layer Cake
- Cuisine: Italian