Description
This Italian Lemon Cream Cake is a dreamy citrus dessert featuring layers of airy white cake, a tangy lemon cream cheese filling, and soft whipped cream. Finished with a light crumb topping and dusting of powdered sugar, it’s perfect for spring celebrations, Easter, or any occasion that craves a bright and elegant touch.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1 (15.25 oz) white cake mix
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3/4 cup milk
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1 tbsp milk
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3 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil
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2 large eggs
For the Crumb Topping:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup reserved white cake mix
For the Filling:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar (divided)
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3 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp lemon zest
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2 cups heavy whipping cream
Optional Garnish:
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Additional powdered sugar
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Lemon slices or curls
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the bottom of a 10-inch springform pan. -
Make the Cake Batter:
Set aside 1 cup of cake mix for the topping. In a large bowl, mix the remaining cake mix with ¾ cup + 1 tbsp milk, oil, and eggs. Beat for 2 minutes until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan. -
Make the Crumb Topping:
Stir melted butter and vanilla into the reserved 1 cup cake mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the batter. -
Bake the Cake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan. -
Prepare the Filling:
In one bowl, beat cream cheese, ⅓ cup powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with the remaining ⅓ cup powdered sugar to stiff peaks.
Fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped cream gently. -
Assemble the Cake:
Remove cake from the pan. Slice horizontally into 2 layers. Spread the lemon cream filling on the bottom half, then top with the second cake layer. Chill for at least 4 hours. -
Garnish & Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or curls. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
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For more lemon punch, add extra zest to the filling or use lemon extract in the batter.
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Best made ahead to allow time for chilling and flavors to meld.
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Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
