Go Back

Lemon Mascarpone Cake

This delightful cake combines light, fluffy layers with the richness of mascarpone cheese and the refreshing zing of lemon, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Reduce sugar for a healthier version if desired.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can be replaced with almond milk and vinegar for a dairy-free version.
  • 3 large eggs Can substitute with flaxseed meal mix for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest Use fresh lemons for best flavor.
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice Preferably freshly squeezed.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Mascarpone Filling

  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese Can be replaced with dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Use coconut cream for dairy-free.
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

For Decoration

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all your ingredients and measure them out.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray.

Mixing

  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and buttermilk into the creamed mixture.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Baking

  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  • Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Filling and Assembly

  • Beat the mascarpone cheese with heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  • Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of the mascarpone filling on top.
  • Top with the second layer and decorate with more mascarpone filling and fresh berries.

Notes

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, wrap slices in plastic and place in a freezer bag.
Keyword Birthday Cake, Easy Dessert, Lemon Cake, Mascarpone Cake, Refreshing Dessert