Ah, the Italian Lemon Magic Cake—a dreamy dessert that “magically” separates into three layers while baking: a custard layer, a creamy cheesecake-like layer, and a light sponge cake on top. It’s light, tangy, and absolutely gorgeous! Here’s a reliable recipe:
Italian Lemon Magic Cake
Servings: 8–10
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50–60 min
Chill time: 2+ hours
Ingredients:
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4 large eggs, separated
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½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Zest of 1 large lemon
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½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
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¼ tsp salt
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1 ½ cups (360 ml) milk, room temperature
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Optional topping:
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Powdered sugar for dusting
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Whipped cream
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Lemon slices
Instructions:
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Preheat oven & prep pan:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan and line with parchment paper.
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Mix egg yolks:
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In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
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Stir in melted butter, vanilla, and lemon zest.
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Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until smooth.
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Slowly whisk in milk and lemon juice until fully combined.
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Beat egg whites:
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In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
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Combine carefully:
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Gently fold egg whites into the batter in 2–3 additions, being careful not to deflate them.
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Bake:
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Pour batter into prepared pan.
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Bake 50–60 minutes, until top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay).
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Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours to let layers fully set.
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Serve:
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Dust with powdered sugar, top with whipped cream and lemon slices if desired.
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Slice carefully; you’ll see the “magic” layers: custard at the bottom, soft cake on top, and a creamy middle layer.
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✅ Tips / Variations:
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Use a 9×9 pan for a slightly thinner cake; adjust baking time to 45–50 minutes.
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For extra lemon flavor, drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice) on top.
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Make mini versions in ramekins for individual servings.
If you want, I can also give a fancier version with a lemon glaze and meringue topping that makes it look bakery-level gorgeous.
Do you want me to do that?