Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake: A Simple Yet Irresistible Mediterranean Classic

Welcome to the world of effortless Italian baking. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, simple, and full of rustic charm, you’re going to love the Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake. Known in Italy as “Torta delle 12 Cucchiaiate,” this cake is a symbol of minimalist perfection—no scales, no stress, just a few spoonfuls of everyday pantry ingredients blended into a soft, moist, and fragrant dessert.

What Is Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake?

The Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake is a traditional cake that requires just 12 tablespoons each of key ingredients. It’s often passed down through generations and served during everyday meals, family gatherings, or afternoon tea. It’s known for its simplicity and flexibility.

No kitchen scale? No problem. This cake was made for you.

The Base Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need

Core Ingredients (12 tablespoons each):

• 12 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 12 tbsp sugar
• 12 tbsp milk
• 12 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 12 tbsp potato starch or cornstarch (for a softer texture)

Additional Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add milk, oil, lemon zest, and vanilla. Mix well.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

• Sift in flour, potato starch, baking powder, and salt.
• Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 4: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Why This Cake Works Every Time

• Perfectly balanced proportions
• Easy to remember and make
• No scale or fancy tools needed
• Deliciously moist and tender
• Endlessly adaptable

History of the Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake

This cake has its roots in rural Italy where precision baking tools weren’t common. Instead, cooks relied on what they had—tablespoons, cups, mugs—to create balanced, tasty desserts. It’s a perfect reflection of Italian cucina povera (peasant cooking): humble ingredients made into something extraordinary.

Flavor Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add both lemon and orange zest
• Chocolate Version: Replace 2 tbsp of flour with cocoa powder
• Nutty: Add 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts or almonds
• Fruity: Stir in fresh or dried berries, diced apples, or peaches
• Liqueur Touch: Add a tablespoon of limoncello, rum, or amaretto

Make It Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free

• Use gluten-free flour and starch blends
• Swap milk with almond, oat, or soy milk
• Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter alternatives

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with:

• Espresso or cappuccino
• Whipped cream or mascarpone
• Berry compote or jam
• Vanilla gelato or lemon sorbet

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Fridge: Keeps up to 5 days—cover to avoid drying out
• Freeze: Wrap in plastic and foil, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
• Casual dinners and brunches
• Potlucks or family gatherings
• Birthday cakes with whipped toppings

Expert Baking Tips

• Always use room temperature eggs and milk for better mixing
• Don’t skip the zest—it’s key for flavor
• Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal
• If using cornstarch, sift it to avoid clumps

Common Questions (FAQ)

Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes—melted butter adds a richer flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.

What’s the texture like?
Light, fluffy, and moist with a fine crumb.

Is it too sweet?
No—it’s perfectly balanced, but you can reduce sugar by 1–2 tablespoons if preferred.

Can I frost this cake?
Absolutely. Try lemon glaze, chocolate ganache, or whipped mascarpone.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Fall in Love with Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake

The Italian Twelve Tablespoons Cake is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly delightful. It’s soft, fragrant, easy to prepare, and infinitely adaptable to your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is a go-to recipe that never fails.

From Sunday brunches to spontaneous sweet cravings, it’s always the right time to bake this Mediterranean favorite. So grab your tablespoons and let the aroma of lemon and vanilla fill your kitchen—because simple, delicious baking starts here.

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