Italian Lemon Cake Recipe with 4 Ingredients | Ready in 25 Minutes

Craving something soft, sweet, and citrusy? This Italian lemon cake is all that and more. With just four simple ingredients and a prep time of under 25 minutes, it’s the perfect dessert for busy weekdays or lazy weekend afternoons. You don’t need fancy tools, complicated steps, or long ingredient lists. Just a bowl, a whisk, and your love for lemon.

Let’s go step-by-step through this light and fluffy Italian treat that feels straight out of a countryside café in Tuscany.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe sticks to basics. Just four ingredients that are easy to find in any kitchen.

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or cake flour for a lighter finish)
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

You can also keep optional toppings handy like powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a light lemon glaze if you want to dress it up later.

How to Make It in 25 Minutes

This cake is not just delicious but also super quick to make. Here’s the full process broken into simple steps.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Grease the sides lightly with oil or butter so the cake doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

Take a large mixing bowl. Add the 4 eggs and ¾ cup of sugar. Whisk them together using a hand whisk or an electric mixer. You’ll need to whisk for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and doubles in volume.

This step builds air into the batter, which gives the cake its spongy and soft texture. Don’t skip this part or rush it.

Step 3: Add Lemon Zest and Juice

Now add the zest and juice of one large lemon to the fluffy egg-sugar mixture. Fold it in gently. The citrus aroma will instantly lift your mood. This is where the fresh lemon flavor really shines through.

Step 4: Sift and Fold the Flour

Sift in the flour gradually using a fine mesh sieve. Fold it slowly into the mixture using a spatula. Don’t overmix. Use a circular motion from the bottom up. You want to keep the air in the batter, so be gentle with this step.

Once everything is combined into a smooth and airy batter, pour it into the prepared pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake It

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Check with a toothpick by inserting it in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The top should look golden and the edges slightly pulled away from the pan.

Take it out and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack.

What Makes This Cake So Special?

This Italian lemon cake is more than just easy to make. It’s packed with reasons to love it.

• Light, airy texture without using baking powder or soda
• Natural citrus flavor with no need for artificial flavoring
• No oil or butter, yet moist and soft
• Only 4 ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for everyday cravings or special occasions

Whether you’re a beginner in baking or just want something fast and foolproof, this recipe checks every box.

Optional Toppings and Twists

If you want to make the cake a little more fancy, try one of these simple add-ons:

• Dust powdered sugar over the top after cooling
• Make a quick lemon glaze using powdered sugar and lemon juice
• Add a few fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries
• Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Pair it with espresso or a hot cup of tea

These toppings are not needed, but they add another layer of taste and presentation.

How to Store and Serve

This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it for later too.

• Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that soft texture
• You can also freeze it (without glaze or toppings) for up to a month

Cut into squares or wedges and serve chilled or slightly warm. It’s great as a mid-day snack, dessert, or breakfast treat.

Final Words

This Italian lemon cake proves you don’t need dozens of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something beautiful and delicious. Just four pantry staples, 25 minutes of your time, and a love for lemon is enough.

Whether you’re baking for guests, your family, or just for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. It’s light, fluffy, and perfectly balanced with lemony goodness.