Limoncello Cake With Lemon Glaze

Name: Limoncello Cake With Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup limoncello; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; ½ cup milk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon limoncello

Highlighted under: From the Oven

I absolutely love creating desserts that capture the essence of bright, citrusy flavors, and this Limoncello Cake with Lemon Glaze is a prime example. The refreshing taste of limoncello paired with light and fluffy cake creates a delightful experience for the palate. The rich lemon glaze adds an extra burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the zesty layers. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this cake has become our go-to when we're craving something fresh and invigorating.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:31:15.308Z

When I first made this Limoncello Cake, I was blown away by how the flavors combined. Using homemade limoncello really elevated the taste, giving it a unique and authentic richness. I was surprised at how easy it was to create such a flavorful cake with just a few simple ingredients.

My favorite tip for this recipe is to brush the cake with extra limoncello after it comes out of the oven. This adds moisture and enhances the lemon flavor, creating a beautiful harmony of sweetness and tang. It's definitely a step you don’t want to skip!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty limoncello flavor that brightens every bite
Moist cake with a delightful balance of sweetness
Perfect for any gathering or as a light dessert

Understanding Limoncello's Role

Limoncello plays a pivotal role in this cake, offering not just a delightful lemon flavor but also contributing to the moistness of the cake. The alcohol in limoncello cooks off during baking, leaving behind a rich, zesty flavor that permeates the cake. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider using lemon juice and a touch of lemon extract to replicate the citrus essence. However, the depth of flavor provided by limoncello is hard to match, making it a standout ingredient.

This recipe invites you to experiment with flavor. Limoncello’s sweetness is beautifully balanced by the acidity of lemon zest, enriching the overall flavor profile. The freshness from the zest brightens the cake, while the limoncello facilitates a moist crumb. Don’t skip the zest; it's crucial as it enhances the cake's aromatic qualities, which can be diminished when using limoncello alone. Ensure to use fresh lemons for zesting as they provide the most impact.

Tips for a Perfect Bake

To achieve a cake with a perfect rise and texture, it's crucial to ensure your baking powder is fresh. Baking powder loses its potency over time. A quick test: toss a teaspoon in hot water; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s still good to use. Remember to measure flour correctly, spoons first and then levelling it off with a knife. This avoids incorporating too much flour, which could lead to a dense cake.

Pay close attention while baking; ovens can vary. Start checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes and check again. Once out of the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps the cake maintain its structure and prevents it from breaking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup limoncello
2 tablespoons lemon zest
½ cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon limoncello

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother baking experience.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Limocello

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the limoncello and lemon zest.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk to the mixture, alternating between them, until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and limoncello to make the glaze.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for 10 minutes, brush it with limoncello and drizzle the glaze over the top before serving.

Allow the cake to set for a few minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding poppy seeds to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and glazed, this limoncello cake can be stored at room temperature under a covered cake dome for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To serve, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Enjoy it plain, or pair it with fresh whipped cream and berries for an added touch of elegance and flavor.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor, try serving the cake with a side of lemon curd or a scoop of lemon sorbet. These additions can create a delightful citrus experience for your guests. For gatherings, consider cutting the cake into smaller squares for easy serving, allowing guests to enjoy multiple desserts without feeling overloaded.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with your Limoncello Cake. Adding poppy seeds to the batter not only enhances the texture but also brings a subtle crunch that complements the soft cake beautifully. You might also consider infusing the cake with other citrus flavors such as orange or grapefruit for a unique twist; simply swap the limoncello with an equivalent amount of the alternative citrus liqueur.

For those who prefer a stronger lemon flavor, consider increasing the lemon zest or even adding a few drops of concentrated lemon extract into the batter. If you want to elevate the experience further, drizzle some limoncello over the glaze once applied. This not only provides an extra citrus kick but also adds a beautiful sheen to the cake, making it appealing for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the limoncello with something else?

Yes, you can use lemon juice or a lemon extract, but the flavor will be less intense.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to a week for the best preservation.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day prior and glaze it the day of serving.

→ How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when its edges start to pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.