My Italian nana passed down this recipe to me! It's by far the best

Italian lemon pound cake is a delightful, fresh, and zesty treat that can bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your small Midwestern kitchen. This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy evening at home. The sweet and tangy flavors are a hit with both kids and adults, making it a versatile dessert option that everyone can enjoy. The recipe is straightforward and provides a wonderful opportunity to get the kids involved in baking.

This Italian lemon pound cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an added touch of elegance, serve it with a side of mixed berries or a simple lemon glaze drizzled over the top. A cup of hot tea or coffee can also make for a delightful accompaniment.

Servings: 8-10 servings

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Mix in the milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve the cake plain, or top it with a simple lemon glaze or powdered sugar, if desired.

For a fun twist, you can add poppy seeds to the batter for a lemon-poppy seed version. If you have picky eaters, consider drizzling a sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top to add extra sweetness and entice their taste buds. You can also substitute lime or orange zest and juice for a different citrus flavor. Additionally, adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the batter can introduce a burst of fruity goodness that kids tend to love.