Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting

The Ultimate Limoncello Cake with Mascarpone Frosting

Indulge in this rich, zesty, and creamy Limoncello Cake—perfect for any occasion! This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a moist, flavorful cake topped with a luscious mascarpone frosting. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup Limoncello liqueur
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Mascarpone Frosting:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp Limoncello liqueur
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For Garnish:

• Fresh lemon slices
• Lemon zest
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Stir in the Limoncello, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, Limoncello, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and light.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the mascarpone frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
2. Garnish with fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
2. Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success:

✅ Use room-temperature eggs and mascarpone for a smooth batter and frosting. ✅ Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender. ✅ Chill the frosting before spreading for easier application. ✅ For a boozier kick, brush the cake with extra Limoncello before frosting.

This Limoncello Cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, special celebrations, or simply indulging in a sweet treat. Try it today and let us know how it turns out! 🍋✨