Name: Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake Recipe
Prep time: 300 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 350 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (room temperature); 6 large egg whites (room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups cake flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into 24 pieces, softened but still cool); ½ cup all-purpose flour (heated in 350 degree oven for 5 minutes); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ tablespoon finely grated lemon zest; 4 tablespoons butter (cut into 8 pieces softened); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz container mascarpone cheese (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; ½ tablespoon finely grated lemon zest; sifted powdered sugar

Introduction to Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

If you have a sweet tooth and love the refreshing zing of lemon desserts, you’ve probably indulged in the delicious Lemon Cream Cake at Olive Garden. But why spend money dining out when you can create this delightful treat in your kitchen? Recreating the copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake recipe at home not only saves you a few bucks but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

There’s something special about making a dessert from scratch. It’s a way to express creativity and bring a little piece of restaurant magic into your home. Plus, making this cake can turn an ordinary day into something memorable, whether it's for a gathering with friends or a simple weekend treat. The process may take some time, but don’t worry; the end result is definitely worth it.

Curious about how this cake captures the essence of its restaurant counterpart? The combination of light, fluffy layers, zesty filling, and crumbly topping ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this wonderful world of baking!

Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Creating the perfect Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake at home is a delightful endeavor! Below, you’ll find the ingredient breakdown to achieve that luscious lemony flavor and creaminess that the original is known for. Let’s get started!

For the White Cake

1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
6 large egg whites (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups cake flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 24 pieces (softened but still cool)

For the Crumb Topping

½ cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (heated in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes)
½ cup + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
4 tablespoons butter, cut into 8 pieces (softened)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz container mascarpone cheese (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
½ tablespoon finely grated lemon zest

For Garnish

Sifted powdered sugar (for a finishing touch)

Once you have these ingredients assembled, you're well on your way to making a cake that will wow your friends and family just like at the Olive Garden! The layers of flavor and creaminess are sure to impress. Where will you serve yours?

Step-by-step preparation of Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

If you're craving that delicious Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through each step to recreate this luscious dessert that everyone adores. So grab your apron and let's get started!

Preparing the cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy release after baking!
In a large measuring cup, mix together 1 cup of room-temperature whole milk, 6 large egg whites, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Set this aside.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of cake flour, 1 ¾ cups of granulated sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Next, add in 12 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, one piece at a time, until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs.
Gradually pour in half of the milk mixture and mix on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Then, lower the speed and add the remaining mixture until just combined.
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool it in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely for about two hours.

Making the crumb topping

While your cake cools, you can whip up the crumb topping:

In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup + 1 tablespoon of preheated all-purpose flour, ½ cup + 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and ½ tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest.
Cut in 4 tablespoons of softened butter and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. Cover and refrigerate this blend while preparing the filling.

Preparing the filling

For that delightful creamy filling, follow these simple steps:

Whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form and set aside.
In another bowl, mix together an 8 oz container of softened mascarpone cheese, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and ½ tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into this mascarpone mixture until well combined.

Assembling the cake

Now it’s time for the fun part—assembly!

Carefully split the cooled cake horizontally and place one layer on a cardboard round.
Reserve ½ cup of the filling for later, then spread the remaining filling generously over the first layer. Place the second layer on top.
Use the reserved filling to frost just the sides of the cake, creating a smooth, creamy exterior.
Finally, press the crumb topping into the sides of the cake, ensuring you have an even coat all around.

Finishing touches

After assembling your masterpiece, chill the cake for at least one hour to let those flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, dust the top with sifted powdered sugar for that classic look. Slice and enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake!

This delicious twist on a restaurant favorite is sure to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy your creation!

Variations on Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Alternate citrus flavors

If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping lemons for other citrus fruits to give this copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake recipe a unique twist. Oranges, limes, or even grapefruit can infuse a delightful tang into your cake. Simply replace lemon juice and zest with the corresponding citrus juice and zest, and watch your cake transform into a new favorite!

Adding fruit layers

For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider adding fruit layers between the cake layers. Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries complement the creaminess beautifully. Layer them with the filling for a refreshing surprise with every bite. It adds not only flavor but also a pop of color, making your cake as visually stunning as it is delicious.

By exploring these variations, you can customize your copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake to suit any occasion while impressing your friends and family!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Tips for the Best Texture

To ensure your copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake recipe has that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture, be sure to use room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and milk. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better mixing. Also, don’t skip chilling the cake after assembling; this step enhances the flavors and allows the filling to set, resulting in a more refined texture.

Notes on Ingredient Freshness

Fresh ingredients can make all the difference in flavor, so opt for the best available. Use fresh lemons for juice and zest to ensure your cake has that bright, invigorating flavor. Additionally, make sure your mascarpone cheese is fresh, as it plays a crucial role in achieving a creamy filling. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final outcome! For more on ingredient freshness, consult this guide from Food & Wine.

Serving suggestions for Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Pairing ideas

To elevate your Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake, consider serving it with a fresh fruit compote or a side of lightly-sweetened whipped cream. The bright flavors of berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, enhance the cake's lemony goodness. For a warm touch, a scoop of vanilla gelato or sorbet can offer a delightful contrast. If you're looking for drinks, a refreshing herbal tea or sparkling lemonade works well to cleanse the palate.

Presentation tips

For an eye-catching presentation of your copycat olive garden lemon cream cake recipe, dust the top with sifted powdered sugar and garnish with thin lemon slices or mint leaves. Using a decorative cake stand adds elegance, making the cake a centerpiece for gatherings. Consider serving slices on colorful plates to bring out the bright flavors of the cake—showing off that zesty vibe is all part of the enjoyment!

Time Breakdown for Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

When it comes to creating a delightful dessert, knowing your time commitments can help. Here’s a handy breakdown for the Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake Recipe, so you can plan your baking day with confidence.

Preparation Time

Plan for approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes to prepare the white cake, crumb topping, and filling. This includes chilling time for your crumb topping and cake layers – patience is key!

Baking Time

The actual baking time for the cake is around 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden color, and don’t forget to rotate the cake halfway through for even baking!

Total Time

In total, you'll be looking at about 5 hours and 50 minutes from start to finish, including all preparation, baking, and cooling times. But trust me, the result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Understanding this timeline means you can easily fit this delicious treat into your day. Want a little help with the process? Check out related baking tips for successful cake making!

Nutritional Facts for Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Calories per Slice

Each slice of this delectable Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake comes in at approximately 676 calories. While this cake is indulgent, its bright lemony flavor makes it a delightful treat worth every bite!

Key Nutritional Components

In addition to its calorie density, here are some key nutritional components you should know:

Carbohydrates: 89g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 32g (includes saturated fat: 19g)
Cholesterol: 88mg
Sodium: 285mg
Potassium: 245mg
Sugar: 62g

This rich cake incorporates mascarpone cheese, a unique ingredient that adds to its creamy texture. Interested in similar desserts? Check out other delectable options like vanilla bean cheesecake or zesty lemon bars that can satisfy your sweet tooth with a twist! Enjoy your baking journey!

FAQ about Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Can I use a different cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! While the copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake recipe traditionally uses mascarpone cheese for its rich and creamy texture, you can easily substitute cream cheese if you prefer. Just make sure to soften it before mixing to ensure a smooth filling. Some people even add a little sour cream for an extra tang—experiment to find your perfect blend!

How do I store the leftover cake?

To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It should remain delicious for about 3-4 days. If you find yourself with extra cake, consider freezing slices for longer storage, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Just let it thaw in the fridge when you're ready for another slice!

What can I substitute for cake flour?

If you don’t have cake flour on hand, you can make a simple substitute using all-purpose flour. Just measure one cup of all-purpose flour and remove two tablespoons from it. Then, replace those two tablespoons with cornstarch; this will help mimic the lighter texture of cake flour. It's a handy trick that delivers great results!

For more tips and resources, check out sites like King Arthur Baking or The Spruce Eats.

Conclusion on Copycat Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

In summary, this copycat Olive Garden lemon cream cake recipe brings the delightful taste of your favorite restaurant dessert right into your kitchen. With its zesty layers and creamy filling, it’s sure to impress guests or brighten a quiet day. So, don your apron, gather those ingredients, and indulge in a slice of lemony bliss!