Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a delightful confection that harmonizes the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of juicy strawberries. This elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to summertime celebrations, bringing a burst of freshness that tantalizes the senses. The soft, buttery layers, filled with strawberry goodness and enveloped in a smooth lemon buttercream, create a slice of heaven that’s not only visually stunning but also irresistible. With its easy, step-by-step preparation, this recipe ensures you’ll bake something special and heartwarming that your family and friends will cherish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake recipe. First, it boasts an effortless preparation method, making it perfect for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike. With a short ingredient list that combines pantry staples and fresh produce, this cake is as simple to make as it is enjoyable to eat. The contrast between the light, fluffy cake, luscious strawberry filling, and creamy buttercream frosting creates a refreshing flavor profile that is undeniably addictive. This cake is a crowd-pleaser, sure to impress at gatherings or simply turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients for your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Creating a light and tender cake.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Ensuring that our cake rises beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in our cake.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adding a rich, creamy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Infusing sweetness to each bite.
• 4 large eggs: Binding our cake together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Offering a warm, aromatic touch.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Contributing moisture and tanginess.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adding a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree: Bursting with fresh fruit flavor.

For the frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base for our creamy frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetening and thickening our frosting.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Energizing the flavor profile.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Amplifying the lemony goodness in our frosting.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balancing out the sweetness.
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream: Adjusting the frosting’s consistency for perfect spreading.

For the filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Bringing juicy contrasts to each layer.
• 2 tbsp sugar: Helping to macerate the strawberries and enhance their sweetness.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightening the flavor of the filling.

With these vibrant and aromatic ingredients, your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake will surely shine!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure an easy release of your cake layers later.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination creates a base for a light and airy cake. Set this mixture aside for now.

3. Cream Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Adding the eggs one at a time, ensure to beat well after each addition. Now, stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and strawberry puree until well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternately mixing in the buttermilk. Start with the dry ingredients and finish with them, ensuring everything blends smoothly.

5. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

6. Prepare Strawberry Filling

To create the luscious strawberry filling, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir gently to mix, allowing the strawberries to sit for about 15 minutes. This will help release their natural juices.

7. Make the Lemon Buttercream Frosting

For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Treat the frosting with heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired consistency.

8. Assemble the Cake

To build your cake, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of the strawberry filling on top, then follow it with a layer of frosting. Gently place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides generously with the remaining buttercream.

9. Garnish and Serve

For an appealing finish, garnish the cake with fresh strawberries or lemon zest if desired. Slice, serve, and fully enjoy this refreshing layered dessert!

Tips & Tricks

1. Beat the Butter Properly: Take care to beat the butter until it’s completely creamy; this ensures a smooth frosting.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries and lemons to ensure vibrant flavors in your cake.
3. Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
4. Heavy Cream Adjustments: Use heavy or whipping cream for a richer buttercream texture.
5. Additions: Consider adding a splash of lemon extract for added zest in the buttercream.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is perfect for all celebrations, but particularly shines during summer gatherings, picnics, and birthday parties. It pairs wonderfully with floral teas, sparkling lemonades, or even warm coffee—a great contrast to the cake’s cooling sweetness. With its stunning appearance, it can be served as a centerpiece cupcake for any gathering, making everyone feel special.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake typically contains:

• Calories: Approximately 450 calories per slice
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 200mg

Being indulgent, this cake is best enjoyed in moderation as a treat rather than a daily dessert. Balance it with healthy meals or share it with friends and family to spread joy!

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake layers individually, wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil, for up to 2 months. Frosted cakes can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them without fresh garnishes.

Variations can include swapping the strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries, you can make a mixed berry layer cake. Alternatively, try adding a layer of lemon curd for an extra zing!

Conclusion

Now that we’re at the end of this delicious journey through Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, it’s time for you to put on your apron and start baking. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration! Embrace the process, enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen, and don’t forget to share your experiences with friends and family. Let the layers of flavor uplift your spirits, and dive into the world of baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield a better flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and drained before using.

2. Can I make the cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance. Let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate. Frosting on the day you plan to serve keeps it fresh.

3. Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds a unique tangy flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute it with regular milk by adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

4. What type of flour should I use?

All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe, providing the right texture. Avoid cake flour as it may make the cake too delicate.

5. How can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar for a less sweet frosting. If you prefer a more natural flavor, consider using honey or maple syrup, but be aware that it may change the consistency.

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake

A delightful cake harmonizing tart lemons with sweet strawberries, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Creating a light and tender cake.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder Ensuring that our cake rises beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors in our cake.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Adding a rich, creamy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Infusing sweetness to each bite.
• 4 large eggs Binding our cake together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Offering a warm, aromatic touch.
• 1 cup buttermilk Contributing moisture and tanginess.
• Zest of 1 lemon Adding a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree Bursting with fresh fruit flavor.

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened The base for our creamy frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetening and thickening our frosting.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice Energizing the flavor profile.
• Zest of 1 lemon Amplifying the lemony goodness in our frosting.
• 1/4 tsp salt Balancing out the sweetness.
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream Adjusting the frosting’s consistency for perfect spreading.

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced Bringing juicy contrasts to each layer.
• 2 tbsp sugar Helping to macerate the strawberries and enhance their sweetness.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightening the flavor of the filling.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Making the Cake

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla, lemon zest, and strawberry puree.
3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Making the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes.

Making the Frosting

1. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
2. Adjust frosting consistency with heavy cream.

Assembling the Cake

1. On a serving plate, place one layer of cake, spread with strawberry filling, followed by a layer of frosting.
2. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberries or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

Tips include using fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting.