Limoncello Cake With Lemon Glaze

Name: Limoncello Cake With Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 cup limoncello; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments

I absolutely love baking this Limoncello Cake, especially when I'm looking for a refreshing dessert that brightens up any gathering. The zesty lemon flavor combined with the sweet kick of limoncello creates a delightful taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. This cake is not just about the flavors; the process of making it is equally enjoyable. Drizzling the lemon glaze over the cake right as it comes out of the oven is my favorite part—it adds the perfect finishing touch and makes the cake irresistibly moist.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:49:18.290Z

As I embarked on creating this Limoncello Cake, I experimented with different ratios of lemon juice and limoncello to find the perfect balance. Each time I baked this cake, the citrus aroma filled my kitchen, making it feel like a sunny day regardless of the weather. The trick I discovered was to let the cake cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack; it helps maintain its moistness.

When it comes time to drizzle the lemon glaze, I’ve found that pouring it over a still-warm cake allows the glaze to seep in slightly, enhancing the flavor. This approach creates a nice shine and adds an inviting glaze that complements the cake beautifully. Trust me, the first slice will leave your guests craving more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing citrus flavor that lifts your spirits
Moist and tender crumb thanks to the limoncello
Perfect dessert for summer gatherings or special occasions

Understanding the Flavors

The combination of limoncello and fresh lemon juice creates a bright and zesty cake that stands out. Limoncello, which is a sweet Italian lemon liqueur, brings a unique depth that complements the tartness of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. This harmony between sweet and tart elevates the cake, making each bite refreshing and invigorating. When selecting limoncello, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure the best flavor in your final product.

In addition to enhancing the cake’s flavor, the lemon zest enhances its aroma, making the baking process even more enjoyable. The essential oils in the zest contribute to the overall citrus experience, making the cake a sensory delight. Remember not to skip the zest; it is what provides that aromatic punch that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

For an ideal cake texture, take care when creaming the butter and sugar. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cake rise. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve the right consistency. Avoid overmixing once you add the flour mixture; this can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and tender crumb. Mix just until you see no dry flour to maintain that desirable texture.

Baking time is another key aspect to monitor closely. Ovens can vary widely, so check the cake at the 35-minute mark. The cake is done when it springs back lightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Overbaking will dry out the cake, losing its luscious moisture that limoncello brings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start baking:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 cup limoncello
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Limoncello Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the limoncello, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once out of the oven, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cake.

Serve

Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Limoncello Cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some poppy seeds to the cake for a delightful crunch.

Storage Tips

To store your Limoncello Cake, wait until it has completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh, or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to extend its lifespan, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

If you have leftover lemon glaze, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It can be easily reactivated and used by whisking it again—add a few drops of lemon juice if it thickens after sitting.

Serving Suggestions

This Limoncello Cake pairs beautifully with summer fruits such as berries or a scoop of lemon sorbet. The tartness of the fruits complements the cake’s sweetness perfectly. For a richer experience, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy texture that balances the cake's moist crumb.

For a more adult-themed gathering, consider serving slices of cake alongside a small glass of limoncello. The flavors meld beautifully, and it acts as a lovely digestif after a meal. Alternatively, dusting the top of the cake with additional powdered sugar just before serving not only adds sweetness but also a lovely visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought limoncello?

Yes, store-bought limoncello works great for this recipe!

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Is it possible to make this cake without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can replace limoncello with additional lemon juice or a lemon-flavored soda.

→ Can I freeze the Limoncello Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cooled cake without the glaze. Wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months.