This Mascarpone and Lemon Zest Cake offers a delightful twist on traditional sponge cakes, incorporating the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese and the bright, aromatic flavor of lemon zest. The use of olive oil adds a subtle fruity depth to the cake, enhancing its moistness and flavor profile. Simple to make yet impressively delicious, this cake is perfect for any occasion where you want a dessert that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This:
- Creamy Texture: Mascarpone adds a luxurious creaminess to the cake, making it exceptionally moist and tender.
- Lemon Freshness: The zest of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mascarpone, brightening the overall flavor.
- Olive Oil Richness: The olive oil not only contributes to the moist texture but also introduces a mild, savory note that complements the sweetness.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this cake is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect Occasion:
- Afternoon Tea: Serve this cake as a sophisticated treat during a leisurely afternoon tea.
- Celebratory Events: Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or a festive gathering, this cake makes for a delightful centerpiece.
- Casual Dessert: Ideal for a family dessert that’s not overly sweet but still feels indulgent.
- Potluck Dinners: Impress guests at a potluck with this easy-to-make yet elegant cake.
Decoration Tips:
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can enhance the cake’s appearance, adding a touch of elegance.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon Slice Garnish: Decorate with thin lemon slices or candied lemon peels to reinforce the lemon flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 250g Mascarpone cheese
- 200g Sugar
- 100g Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Eggs
- 220g Flour
- 10g Baking powder
- Zest of one Lemon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Cream Cheese and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone and sugar until smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in the olive oil and eggs until well integrated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in the lemon zest. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing until just combined.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into a parchment-lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy this Mascarpone and Lemon Zest Cake, a beautifully simple cake that is sure to win over anyone with its soft texture and nuanced flavors!
