Italian Cake Recipe

Italian Cake Recipe

A Classic Delight 🇮🇹🎂
This traditional Italian cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a light, fluffy texture and rich flavor, it combines a delicate vanilla base with a hint of citrus and almond, often paired with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional, for a more authentic Italian flavor)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (or orange zest for a different flavor)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)

• For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or orange juice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9x13-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together 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 almond extract (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice for a fresh citrus flavor.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes (for a round pan) or 30-35 minutes (for a rectangular pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly runny.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake and serve! This cake is light, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.