Name: Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers for Summer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, pureed; 4 cups powdered sugar; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers is the ultimate summer-inspired dessert that combines bright lemon flavor with fresh strawberry frosting, creating a treat that’s as refreshing as it is delicious. This cake is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply enjoying on a sunny day. Each slice is infused with the taste of sunshine, making it an irresistible choice for warm weather celebrations. With its moist, fluffy layers and vibrant colors, this cake not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning at any event.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

This delightful cake is not just beautiful; it’s packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Here are several reasons to love it:

The combination of strawberry and lemon offers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for summer.
It’s a versatile dessert, suitable for any occasion, including birthdays and picnics.
Each layer is moist and fluffy, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite.
Using fresh strawberries and lemon juice enhances the natural flavors.
This recipe allows for creative variations, such as adding different fruits or toppings.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.
With its vibrant colors, it’s visually appealing and makes for great presentation.
The cake pairs wonderfully with cream cheese frosting, adding a rich and tangy flavor.

Ingredients for Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

Gather these items for a delicious cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, pureed
4 cups powdered sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet mixture.
Step 6: Divide batter evenly into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Let cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 8: Puree strawberries and strain excess liquid.
Step 9: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Step 10: Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in strawberry puree. Chill frosting.
Step 11: Spread frosting between layers and on top of the cake.
Step 12: Garnish with lemon slices or extra strawberries if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

Keep these in mind to perfect your cake:

Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in your frosting.
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t overmix your batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Consider chilling the cake after frosting for a more stable presentation.
Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers before frosting.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

Serving ideas include:

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with fresh fruit on the side for added freshness.
Drizzle with a lemon glaze for extra zing.

How to Store and Reheat Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

To store the cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to eat, let the slices thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This method ensures the cake stays moist and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

What’s the secret to perfect Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially the strawberries and lemons, which enhance the cake’s flavor. Properly creaming the butter and sugar also contributes to a light and airy texture. Lastly, avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.

Can I make Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers in advance. They can be baked, cooled, and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before frosting. This makes it easier to assemble when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers?

To avoid mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and follow the steps carefully. Ensure your oven is properly preheated, and always check for doneness with a toothpick. This will help you achieve a perfectly baked cake.

Variations of Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers You Can Try

Explore these delicious variations:

Add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for an extra tart flavor.
Incorporate other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry version.
Experiment with different frostings, such as whipped cream or buttercream.
For a tropical twist, add coconut to the batter or frosting.

Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers for Summer - Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you love fruity desserts, you might also enjoy Strawberry Pop Tart Slab!

For more information on the benefits of using fresh ingredients, you can visit Healthline.

Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers for Summer

Author: basmer
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers recipe is the ultimate summer-inspired dessert with bright lemon flavor, fresh strawberry frosting, and moist, fluffy cake. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or anytime you crave a refreshing fruit cake. Enjoy the taste of sunshine in every slice!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet mixture.
Divide batter evenly into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Puree strawberries and strain excess liquid.
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in strawberry puree. Chill frosting.
Spread frosting between layers and on top of the cake.
Garnish with lemon slices or extra strawberries if desired.