Italian Lemon Cream Cake

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Making the Cake: ---

2. 2

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

3. 3

   In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

4. 4

   In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

5. 5

   Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

6. 6

   Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

7. 7

   Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until smooth.

8. 8

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.

9. 9

   Check doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.

10. 10

    Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

11. 11

    --- Making the Lemon Cream Filling: ---

12. 12

    In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.

13. 13

    Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest, mixing until creamy and well combined.

14. 14

    Making the Frosting:

15. 15

    In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

16. 16

    --- Assembling the Cake: ---

17. 17

    Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the lemon cream filling evenly over it.

18. 18

    Add the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining filling.

19. 19

    Frost the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting.

20. 20

    Garnish with lemon slices, zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

21. 21

    Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.