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Refreshing Limoncello Cake: A Bright, Moist, and Elegant

Shruthi
Refreshing Limoncello Cake is a buttery lemon cake infused with authentic limoncello.A citrus syrup soaks into the cake, making it exceptionally moist and flavorful.The tangy lemon glaze adds sweetness and a glossy finish.Perfect for brunches, holidays, and elegant gatherings.The flavor deepens as the cake rests overnight.Each slice offers a refreshing burst of sunshine in dessert form.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • ½ cup limoncello liqueur
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Limoncello Syrup

  • ⅓ cup limoncello
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons limoncello
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnish

  • Lemon zest
  • Thin lemon slices
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan.
  • Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Combine yogurt, limoncello, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla.
  • Alternately add the dry ingredients and wet ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Heat limoncello, lemon juice, and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely.
  • Poke holes in the warm cake and brush or spoon the syrup evenly over the surface.
  • Once cooled, drizzle with lemon glaze and garnish with zest and lemon slices.
  • Slice and enjoy with coffee, tea, or fresh berries.

Notes

  • Use authentic limoncello for the best flavor.
  • Fresh lemon zest adds vibrant aroma.
  • Greek yogurt keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • The syrup intensifies the citrus flavor.
  • The cake tastes even better the next day.
  • Alcohol flavor is present but balanced.
  • A Bundt pan creates an elegant presentation.
  • Store covered to maintain moisture.
Keyword citrus dessert, Elegant Dessert, Italian lemon cake, lemon bundt cake, limoncello cake, summer cake