Description
Looking for a stunning dessert that’s as fresh and vibrant as it is delicious? This *Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers* recipe is the perfect combination of zesty citrus and sweet, juicy strawberries. With soft lemon sponge cake, luscious strawberry filling, and whipped cream cheese frosting, this cake brings a refreshing twist to traditional layer cakes. Ideal for spring brunches, summer birthdays, or just when you need a gorgeous centerpiece, this easy recipe is packed with fruity flavor and irresistible texture. Whether you’re searching for breakfast ideas, easy dinner desserts, or healthy snack alternatives, this cake delivers beauty, flavor, and balance in every bite.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
Whole strawberries, for garnish
Lemon slices or curls, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until juicy. Add cornstarch if using. Cool completely.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch pans.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add lemon zest, juice, and vanilla.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 22–28 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
7. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip cream separately, then fold into frosting.
8. Layer cake: cake, frosting, strawberry filling. Repeat. Frost the outside and decorate with strawberries and lemon slices.
9. Chill at least 1 hour before serving.
10. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth, well-mixed batter.
Chill the cake layers before frosting to ensure clean, stable layers.
Macerate the strawberries ahead to intensify their flavor and reduce sogginess.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg