Delightful Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake Recipe

Name: Italian Grandma's Lemon Custard Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup whole milk; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

October 20, 2025

Updated:

October 20, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake wafting through the kitchen. Imagine a golden, fluffy cake that teeters between a soft sponge and a luxurious custard, all wrapped in a zesty lemon embrace. The first bite? Pure bliss. It’s like sunshine on a plate, with every forkful making you feel as though you’ve been transported to a rustic Italian villa, sipping limoncello under the warm sun.

This cake is perfect for any occasion – be it birthdays, family gatherings, or just an ordinary Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. I remember the first time I tried my Grandma’s recipe; it was an instant love affair. The way my family devoured it, leaving only crumbs behind, assured me that I needed to master this dish. Each slice is not just dessert; it’s an experience filled with laughter, memories, and the sweet tang of lemon!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful cake is easy to prepare and perfect for novice bakers
Its bright flavor makes it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering
Visually stunning with its golden hue and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on it
Enjoy it as a dessert or delightful afternoon treat paired with coffee or tea

I vividly recall my cousin’s face lighting up when I served this cake at her wedding shower; everyone couldn’t get enough of that lemony goodness!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture in your cake.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for proper rising; check the expiration date!
Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors beautifully.
Fresh Lemons: Zest and juice them for maximum flavor; fresh makes a world of difference.
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; cream it well with sugar until fluffy.
Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; consider buttermilk for added tanginess.
Cream Cheese: Adds depth and richness to the custard layer; make sure it’s softened.
Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; optional but recommended for aesthetic appeal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake

How to Make Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your favorite round baking pan with butter or nonstick spray so nothing gets stuck.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set this aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Cream Butter and Sugar Together: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes should do the trick.

Add Eggs and Lemon Zest/Juice : Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Add lemon zest and juice; mix until everything is well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually add the dry mixture into your creamy butter mixture. Alternate adding milk while mixing until you achieve a smooth batter.

Bake Until Golden Brown : Pour batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Enjoy baking this delightful treat! Each step brings you closer to enjoying those incredible layers of lemony goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!

You Must Know

Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake is a showstopper, brightening your table with its zesty aroma
It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, offering a creamy texture and a deliciously tangy flavor that will have your guests begging for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your lemon custard while the cake bakes, ensuring everything is fresh and warm when served. This sequence maximizes flavor and keeps you organized in the kitchen.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with citrus! Swap lemons for limes or oranges for a unique twist that still shines through in this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds to revive its creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Be sure to use fresh lemons for maximum flavor; bottled juice just won’t cut it
Allow the cake cool completely before slicing for neat pieces
Lastly, dust with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant finish!

This recipe reminds me of family gatherings when my grandma would whip this cake up effortlessly. Her secret was always to sing while mixing—it made everything taste better!

FAQ

How do I know when the custard is ready?

The custard is done when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Can I freeze Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

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