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Limoncello Mascarpone Cake

A bright, creamy, and impressive dessert that features a moist lemon sponge and silky mascarpone frosting.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Layers
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup Oil For moisture
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 3 large Eggs Room temperature
  • 1 cup Whole milk or buttermilk
  • 2 large Lemons For zest and juice
  • 1/2 cup Limoncello Divided between syrup and frosting
Mascarpone Frosting
  • 16 oz Mascarpone cheese Room temperature
  • 1 cup Heavy cream For lightness in the filling
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar For the frosting
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line two 8 or 9 inch round pans with parchment and lightly grease. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add oil for extra moisture.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing in lemon zest and vanilla after.
  5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the dry. Mix gently until just combined.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter between the prepared pans, smooth the tops, and bake for 22 to 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool slightly, then brush with a mixture of limoncello, sugar, and lemon juice. Let cool completely.
Making the Frosting
  1. Beat the mascarpone with powdered sugar, a splash of limoncello, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream gently.
Assembling the Cake
  1. Place the first layer on a plate, spread a generous layer of frosting, then add the second layer.
  2. Frost the top and sides. Chill for 30 to 60 minutes to set.
  3. Garnish with extra lemon zest, thin lemon slices, or berries.

Notes

Use fresh lemons for best flavor. Room temperature ingredients help create a smoother batter and frosting. Consider a simple decorative touch with fruit or zest.