Limoncello Pound Cake Lemon (Printable)

Moist pound cake infused with Limoncello and a tangy lemon glaze, ideal for a sweet treat or tea time.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pound Cake

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 4 large eggs, room temperature
04 - 1/4 cup Limoncello liqueur
05 - 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
06 - 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
07 - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
08 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
09 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Lemon Glaze

11 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
12 - 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
13 - 1 tablespoon Limoncello liqueur
14 - Extra lemon zest for topping, optional

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
03 - Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
04 - Stir in lemon zest, Limoncello, lemon juice, and milk until well combined.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
06 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated without overmixing.
07 - Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top surface evenly.
08 - Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
09 - Allow cake to cool in pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and Limoncello until smooth and pourable consistency is achieved.
11 - Drizzle glaze over completely cooled cake. Top with extra lemon zest if desired. Allow glaze to set before slicing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The Limoncello liqueur adds a sophisticated, authentic Italian flavor that sets this apart from ordinary lemon cakes
  • Incredibly moist and tender crumb thanks to the perfect balance of butter, eggs, and citrus
  • The bright lemon glaze adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of tangy sweetness
  • Makes an impressive presentation for special occasions yet is surprisingly approachable to bake
  • Fresh lemon zest throughout ensures vibrant, natural citrus flavor in every bite
02 -
  • Use a high-quality Limoncello for the best flavor — the liqueur is a key ingredient, so it's worth investing in a good brand
  • Zest your lemons before juicing them for easier preparation and to ensure you get the aromatic oils from the peel
  • Don't skip sifting the powdered sugar for the glaze — it prevents lumps and creates a smooth, professional finish
  • Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter
  • Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and sliding off
  • For clean slices, wipe your knife between cuts — the glaze can make slicing sticky
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