Italian Lemon Pound Cake
This irresistible, zesty lemon pound cake is moist, buttery, and packed with bright citrus flavor, topped with a luscious lemon glaze for the perfect finish.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- Zest of 2 large lemons
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream.
- Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Add Lemon and Flavorings:
- Fold in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using) until fully incorporated.
7. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cake:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before adding the glaze.
9. Make the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
- Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor (optional).
10. Glaze the Cake:
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Check for doneness: Begin testing for doneness at 1 hour and 15 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Enjoy this classic Italian Lemon Pound Cake with a cup of coffee, tea, or as a delightful dessert after a meal!