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Cheesecake Factory Italian Lemon Cream Cake


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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Cheesecake Factory-inspired Italian Lemon Cream Cake is a delightful citrus dessert featuring layers of soft vanilla cake, a luscious lemon mascarpone filling, and a crisp, buttery crumb topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this homemade Italian lemon cream cake offers a bright, refreshing flavor that makes it a standout among lemon desserts.


Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 1 cup whole milk, room temperature

For the crumb topping:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold

  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the lemon mascarpone cream:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature

  • 2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and grease.

  • Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.

  • Cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add oil, eggs, and vanilla; mix well.

  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with dry. Mix just until combined.

  • Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.

  • Prepare the crumb topping: Mix flour and powdered sugar, cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add lemon zest and vanilla. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 350°F (177°C) for 10–12 minutes. Cool and crumble.

  • Make lemon mascarpone cream: Whip cream to stiff peaks. In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and juice until smooth. Fold in whipped cream.

  • Assemble: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread lemon mascarpone cream over the top.

  • Add the second layer, frost the top and sides with remaining cream.

  • Press crumb topping onto the cake’s top and sides.

  • Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • Cake layers and crumb topping can be prepared a day in advance.

  • Ensure crumb topping is fully cooled before applying to preserve crunch.

  • Substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangier flavor.

  • Add lemon curd between layers for more citrus punch.

  • Store cake refrigerated up to 4 days; let sit at room temp before serving.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American