Description
Torta Susanna is a traditional Italian rich and buttery cake with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness. This classic dessert is simple to make, perfect for finishing a family dinner or enjoying as a special treat. Its authentic Italian flavor combines butter, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla in a moist, flavor-rich cake that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or dessert wine.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 fresh lemon
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air for a better rise.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and freshly grated lemon zest to add fragrance and brightness.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture carefully, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This ensures a moist and tender texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smooth, creamy batter.
- Fold ingredients gently to avoid a dense cake and maintain a light crumb.
- Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor impact.
- Start checking the cake for doneness 5 minutes before the end of baking to prevent overbaking.
- Cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess by allowing air circulation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Torta Susanna, Italian cake, buttery cake, traditional dessert, lemon zest cake, easy baking recipe