Simple Italian Cake with 12 tablespoons

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small cake pan (around 8 inches) or line it with parchment paper. The simplicity of this cake means it bakes quickly, so make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the batter inside.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg, olive oil, milk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. The olive oil adds a lovely richness to the cake while keeping it light, and the lemon juice and zest give it a fresh, citrusy flavor that will transport you straight to Italy.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. The sifting process ensures the dry ingredients are well-mixed and prevents clumping, which helps the cake rise evenly.
4. Bring It All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—just fold everything together until the batter is smooth and well-blended. The batter will be somewhat thick, but that’s perfectly fine!
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
6. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. After it has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.

Why This Cake Is So Great:

• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With just 12 tablespoons of key ingredients, this cake is proof that sometimes, less really is more. The combination of olive oil and lemon creates a moist, flavorful cake with a light texture. It’s not too sweet but perfectly balanced, making it the ideal treat for any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re having a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together, or craving a quick dessert, this Simple Italian Cake is versatile enough to fit any event. Serve it with coffee in the morning, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert after a hearty meal.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is as simple as it gets! No complicated steps or fancy techniques—just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. It’s a great recipe for beginner bakers or anyone who’s looking to whip up something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Light Yet Satisfying: Unlike some heavy cakes, this one is light and fluffy, making it a perfect choice if you want a dessert that doesn’t feel too filling. The lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that keeps the cake light on the palate.
• Customizable: While this cake is wonderful on its own, you can easily personalize it by adding different flavorings or toppings. Try adding a handful of fresh berries on top for added texture, or drizzle a bit of honey over the cake for extra sweetness. You can even experiment with adding almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve the cake with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to enhance the fruity flavors. The combination of the cake’s citrusy notes and the tartness of fresh fruit makes for a delightful dessert.
• Top with Whipped Cream or Gelato: For an indulgent treat, top the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy Italian gelato. This will elevate the dessert into something truly special.
• Enjoy with Coffee or Tea: The lightness of this cake pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or tea. It’s the perfect way to round off a meal, especially if you’re looking for a sweet but not-too-heavy option.

Final Thoughts:

This Simple Italian Cake with 12 Tablespoons proves that sometimes the best things come in small, simple packages. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this cake is a testament to the beauty of Italian baking: light, flavorful, and always satisfying. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or looking for a dessert that’s easy to whip up for guests, this cake will definitely hit the mark.

So next time you find yourself in the mood for something sweet and effortless, give this simple Italian cake a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, and who knows—you might even end up making it again and again!