Limoncello Pound Cake Lemon (Printable version)

Moist pound cake with limoncello and a tangy lemon glaze for a bright citrus touch.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pound Cake

01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 4 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1/3 cup limoncello liqueur
08 - 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
09 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
10 - Zest of 2 lemons
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Lemon Glaze

12 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
13 - 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
14 - 1 tablespoon limoncello liqueur, optional
15 - Zest of 1 lemon for garnish

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
04 - Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
05 - Mix in the limoncello, milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
06 - Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
07 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top surface evenly.
08 - Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil after 40 minutes.
09 - Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - In a small bowl, whisk the sifted powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice and limoncello if using, adding more lemon juice as needed for a pourable consistency.
11 - Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and garnish with lemon zest. Let set before slicing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Moist, tender crumb with bright citrus notes from fresh lemon and limoncello.
  • Elegant lemon glaze adds a tangy finish that enhances the flavor.
  • Perfect for springtime gatherings, holidays, or any citrus lover’s treat.
  • Simple preparation with accessible ingredients and classic technique.
02 -
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix once adding the flour mixture to keep the cake tender.
  • If the cake browns too quickly, tent with foil after 40 minutes of baking.
  • Sift the powdered sugar for the glaze to avoid lumps and create a smooth finish.
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