Limoncello Mascarpone Cake – A Citrus Delight! – Page 2

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect Limoncello Mascarpone Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest (for an extra burst of lemon flavor)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup limoncello (this will infuse the cake with a delicious citrusy flavor)

For the Limoncello Syrup:

1/4 cup limoncello
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Mascarpone Filling:

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons limoncello (optional, to enhance the flavor)

For Garnish:

Lemon zest (for a fresh, zesty topping)
Fresh berries or candied lemon peel (optional, for added decoration)

How to Make Limoncello Mascarpone Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and fresh lemon juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the limoncello, ensuring the batter is smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Limoncello Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine the limoncello, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the syrup is heated through (about 3-4 minutes). Set aside to cool.

Step 5: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
If you prefer a stronger limoncello flavor, fold in the limoncello to the mascarpone mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes if necessary.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Brush the top with the limoncello syrup, ensuring it is evenly moistened.
Spread a generous amount of mascarpone filling on top of the first cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process—brushing with the limoncello syrup and adding the remaining mascarpone filling.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the top of the cake with a dusting of lemon zest and optional fresh berries or candied lemon peel for a pop of color.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and for the filling to set.

Tips for the Perfect Limoncello Mascarpone Cake

1. Use Fresh Lemon Juice

For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled lemon juice. Fresh lemon juice provides a more vibrant and aromatic flavor that will enhance the overall taste of the cake.

2. Don’t Skimp on the Limoncello Syrup

The limoncello syrup is what infuses the cake with a tangy, citrusy kick. Make sure to generously brush each layer of cake with the syrup for the best flavor.

3. Let the Cake Chill

Allowing the cake to chill for a while after assembling will help it set and make it easier to slice. It also helps the flavors come together for a more balanced and cohesive taste.

4. Experiment with Toppings

Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Fresh berries, whipped cream, or candied lemon peel are all great options for garnishing. You could even drizzle a little more limoncello over the top for an extra citrusy finish.

Why Limoncello Mascarpone Cake is the Perfect Dessert

The Limoncello Mascarpone Cake is a showstopper dessert that combines creamy indulgence with refreshing citrus notes. The combination of tangy lemon, smooth mascarpone, and fragrant limoncello creates a balanced and sophisticated flavor profile that will leave your guests impressed. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something special, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Its elegant appearance, delicate flavors, and luxurious texture make it the perfect dessert for all sorts of celebrations, from birthdays to holidays to intimate gatherings. Best of all, it’s relatively easy to make, allowing you to indulge in a little slice of Italian paradise with minimal effort.

Conclusion: A Slice of Citrus Heaven

If you’re a fan of bright, citrusy desserts with a rich and creamy twist, the Limoncello Mascarpone Cake is the perfect treat for you. With its irresistible combination of mascarpone filling, moist cake layers, and a hint of limoncello, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress every time. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of this citrusy delight—you won’t regret it!

←Previous Next→