This Italian lemon cream cake is a true delight. With its soft shortcrust pastry, creamy filling, and delicate lemon flavor, it’s perfect for a refined afternoon snack or an elegant dessert. Simple to make, yet impressive in taste and appearance, it’s sure to delight every palate.
Ingredients
For the shortcrust pastry:
1 egg
Zest of one lemon (preferably organic)
125 g sugar (1/2 cup)
310 g flour (2 1/2 cups)
5 g baking powder (1 tsp)
140 g softened butter
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
For the lemon curd:
500 ml whole milk
100 g sugar
60 g flour
2 whole eggs
Juice and zest of one lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the shortcrust pastry
In a large bowl, whisk the egg, sugar, and lemon zest.
Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix.
Add the softened butter, cut into small pieces. Knead lightly until smooth.
Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and let rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Curd
In a saucepan, combine the eggs, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the milk, lemon juice, and zest while whisking.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll out two-thirds of the batter and line a 24 cm (9.5 in) springform pan.
Pour the cooled cream over the pastry base.
Roll out the remaining batter and cover the cake. Seal the edges.
Lightly prick the top with a fork.
Step 4: Baking
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown.
Let cool completely before removing from the pan.
Step 5: Decoration
Sprinkle with icing sugar and garnish with thin lemon slices for an elegant touch.
Tips for Success
For an even more moist crust, add a tablespoon of almond flour.
Let the cream cool completely before using to prevent it from making the crust soggy.
This cake is even better the next day after refrigerating.
Preparation Time
Preparation: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Conclusion
This Italian lemon cream cake is an invitation to a culinary journey. Perfectly balanced between sweetness and acidity, it will delight lovers of light, fruity desserts. Serve it for brunch, dinner, or simply as an everyday treat.