Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Creaming Process: Using an electric mixer, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Incorporate Lemon and Vanilla: Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and airy.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cake is completely cool, dust with powdered sugar.
- Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
The Italian Lemon Cake is a testament to the beauty of Italian desserts—simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This cake is not overly sweet, making it the perfect canvas for the robust lemon flavor to shine through. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family, accompanied by a cup of espresso or a glass of limoncello for a truly Italian experience.