Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

The scent of fresh lemons always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the warmth of a freshly baked Italian Lemon Crumble Cake filled the air. The delicate balance of tangy lemon curd, velvety ricotta, and buttery crumble made every bite pure bliss. Whether served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is a nostalgic embrace in dessert form.

Baking this Italian Lemon Crumble Cake isn’t just about following a recipe—it’s about recreating that feeling of comfort, love, and tradition. Every step, from mixing the crumbly dough to swirling in the rich lemon curd, is an opportunity to infuse the cake with care. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to bring this delightful treat to life.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

Here’s why this Italian Lemon Crumble Cake deserves a spot in your baking rotation:

• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of fresh lemon zest and creamy ricotta creates a beautifully balanced taste.
• Easy to Make – The crust and crumble topping use the same dough, making preparation a breeze.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s for brunch, a tea party, or dessert after dinner, this cake fits every setting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare this cake in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer.
• Rich Yet Light – Unlike dense cakes, this one has an airy texture with a buttery crumble for added crunch.

First-by-First Guide to Making Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

First: Gathering Ingredients for Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following ingredients:

the Crust/Crumble Dough:

• 4 ounces (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup almond flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract

The Ricotta Filling:

• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Lemon Layer:

• ¾ cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)

For Garnishing:

• Powdered sugar (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Second: Preparing the Crust and Crumble Topping

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
4. Form the Dough – Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a fork until crumbs form.
5. Prepare the Base – Transfer 1¼ cups of the crumb mixture to a separate bowl (this will be the topping). Press the remaining dough into the cake pan to form the crust.

Third: Making the Ricotta Filling

1. Whisk the Ingredients – In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sugar, egg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Layer Over Crust – Pour the ricotta mixture over the prepared crust and spread evenly.

Fourth: Adding the Lemon Curd and Crumble Topping

1. Dollop the Lemon Curd – Spoon the lemon curd over the ricotta layer and gently swirl with a knife.
2. Add the Crumble – Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top.

Fifth: Baking the Cake

1. Bake – Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
2. Cool – Let the cake cool in the pan for at least an hour before removing.
3. Serve – Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream, if desired.

FAQs About Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

How Do I Make Italian Lemon Crumble Cake Healthier?

To make this dessert healthier, try using:

• Low-fat ricotta cheese
• A sugar substitute like honey or coconut sugar
• Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour

Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?

Yes! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.

What’s the Secret to a Moist and Flavorful Cake?

• Use high-quality ricotta for a creamy texture.
• Don’t overbake—remove the cake when the edges are golden.
• Let the cake rest before serving to enhance the flavors.

How Long Does Italian Lemon Crumble Cake Last?

• Refrigerated: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Frozen: Store for up to 3 months wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Can I Freeze This Cake?

Absolutely! Just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing.

Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

Baking the Italian Lemon Crumble Cake to perfection requires a few expert tips that ensure the best texture and flavor. Here are some key pointers to make your cake irresistible:

• Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh lemon zest and juice enhance the citrus flavor, making a noticeable difference in taste.
• Chill the Ricotta Mixture – Letting the ricotta filling rest in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before layering can improve its creaminess.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough – The crumbly texture of the crust and topping comes from minimal mixing. Overworking the dough may result in a denser cake.
• Check for Doneness – Bake until the top is lightly golden, and the center is set. A slight jiggle in the middle is fine as it will firm up while cooling.
• Let It Cool Completely – Allowing the cake to cool in the pan prevents it from breaking apart when slicing.

By following these tips, your Italian Lemon Crumble Cake will turn out beautifully every time!

Serving Ideas for Italian Lemon Crumble Cake

The Italian Lemon Crumble Cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are some serving ideas:

• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee – The citrusy brightness pairs wonderfully with herbal tea, espresso, or cappuccino.
• Topped with Fresh Berries – Adding raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries provides a burst of freshness.
• Drizzled with Honey or Lemon Syrup – A light drizzle enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Served with Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or lemon gelato complements the creamy texture of the cake.
• As a Brunch Dessert – Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like croissants and fruit salads for a delightful spread.

No matter how you serve it, this Italian Lemon Crumble Cake is guaranteed to impress with its balance of creamy ricotta, tangy lemon curd, and buttery crumble.

Conclusion

Italian Lemon Crumble Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the best of Italian baking—creamy ricotta, bright lemon curd, and a buttery crumble. Whether you serve it at brunch, during tea time, or as a post-dinner treat, it’s sure to impress.

For those who love experimenting with different flavors, you might also enjoy this Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe for another delicious ricotta-based dish. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try this Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe for a comforting meal. And if you’re a fan of classic American-Italian fusion, you can’t go wrong with this Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe.

Now that you have the perfect recipe, it’s time to try it yourself! Have you made this cake before? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your fellow dessert lovers. Happy baking!

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