Easy Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe
The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a bright, refreshing, and utterly delicious dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of spring and summer. This cake combines the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries with the zesty, tangy brightness of lemon, layered beautifully with moist cake and creamy frosting. The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a visual delight with its vibrant colors and elegant layers, making it an ideal choice for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a special homemade dessert.
What makes the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake stand out is its balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries complements the sharp citrus notes of lemon, while the tender cake layers soak up every bit of moisture, ensuring a soft bite every time. This cake is an excellent option for those who love fruity desserts with a light, fresh finish, avoiding overly heavy or overly sweet cakes.
Moreover, the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is versatile, allowing for many personal touches. You can choose to add fresh strawberries between layers or fold lemon zest into the frosting. This recipe invites you to experiment while staying true to its core essence—celebrating the wonderful combination of strawberries and lemon.
In this post, you will find everything you need to make the perfect Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake from scratch. From the essential ingredients and detailed step-by-step instructions to serving suggestions, storage tips, and even troubleshooting common mistakes, this guide is designed to make your baking experience enjoyable and successful.
Whether you are an experienced baker or a beginner looking to try something new, the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake recipe is approachable and rewarding. As you read on, you will discover how to transform simple pantry staples and fresh produce into an eye-catching and flavorful cake that everyone will love.
Get ready to delight in the vibrant flavors and luscious textures of the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake—a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
To make the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, having the right ingredients on hand is essential for achieving that perfect balance of moist cake and flavorful frosting. This section outlines all the ingredients you’ll need, including full measurements, to create this stunning dessert.
Cake Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
Strawberry Filling and Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Additional Items:
- Fresh whole strawberries for decoration (optional)
- Parchment paper for lining cake pans
- Non-stick spray or butter for greasing pans
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake. For instance, using fresh lemon juice and zest gives the cake that vibrant citrus flavor, while the buttermilk keeps the cake moist and tender. The fresh strawberries not only provide natural sweetness but also a juicy burst that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon frosting.
Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting to mix to ensure a smooth batter and even baking. Using fresh strawberries rather than frozen will also enhance the freshness and flavor in your strawberry filling.
Having all these ingredients ready before you start will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, setting you up for success in creating the perfect Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake (Include Full Measurements)
Making the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a rewarding process that combines simple baking techniques with fresh, flavorful ingredients. This detailed step-by-step guide will help you create a moist, tangy cake layered with luscious strawberry filling and zesty lemon frosting. Follow each step carefully to achieve the best results for your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake will release easily from the pans without sticking or breaking apart.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. These dry ingredients provide structure and leavening to the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, helping it rise evenly and maintain a tender crumb.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream ¾ cup softened unsalted butter with 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a soft and airy Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Lemon Zest, and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. The lemon zest will infuse the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake with bright citrus flavor, while vanilla adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the taste.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1 cup buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense. Finally, stir in ¼ cup fresh lemon juice for an extra citrus kick.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
While the cake cools, combine 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices, creating a sweet and tangy filling perfect for your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Step 8: Make the Lemon Frosting
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Then add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 9: Assemble the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of the strawberry filling on top. Add a thick layer of lemon frosting over the strawberries, then carefully place the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting and decorate with fresh strawberries if desired.
Your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is now ready to impress. The combination of moist cake, sweet strawberries, and tangy lemon frosting creates a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Serving and Storage Tips for Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
Serving and storing your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake properly ensures that every slice is as delicious as the first. This section provides helpful tips on how to enjoy and preserve your cake, so you can savor its fresh flavors over time.
Serving Tips
The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. If you’ve stored it in the refrigerator, allow the cake to sit out for about 20-30 minutes before slicing. This lets the frosting soften slightly, making each bite smooth and creamy.
For an elegant presentation, garnish the top of your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake with whole fresh strawberries or thin lemon slices. You can also sprinkle a bit of lemon zest or powdered sugar for an extra decorative touch. Serving the cake with a cup of tea or a light fruit-infused beverage complements its bright flavors beautifully.
This cake is perfect for celebrations like birthdays, bridal showers, or afternoon tea parties. Since the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake features fresh fruit and citrus flavors, it pairs well with light and refreshing drinks, such as iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with lemon slices.
Storage Tips
Because the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake contains fresh strawberries and lemon frosting, it’s important to store it properly to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage. The best way to store the cake is to cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated.
Your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze individual cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen slices of Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake can last up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
Avoid leaving the cake out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the fresh fruit and frosting can spoil. If you’re transporting the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, use a cake carrier or a sturdy container to protect its layers and decorations.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake remains moist, flavorful, and visually appealing whenever you enjoy it.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
When baking the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, avoiding common mistakes can mean the difference between a stunning, delicious cake and a disappointing one. This section highlights key pitfalls to steer clear of so your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake turns out perfectly every time.
One of the biggest mistakes is not measuring ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and too much or too little flour, sugar, or leavening agents can affect the cake’s texture and rise. For your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients, leveling off flour with a knife for precision.
Overmixing the batter is another error to avoid. When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, making the cake dense and chewy rather than light and tender — not what you want in a Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Using cold ingredients is a common issue. Butter, eggs, and buttermilk should be at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients don’t blend well, resulting in uneven texture and rise. Ensure everything is properly softened or warmed for the best results in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Baking at the wrong temperature or for an incorrect amount of time can ruin the cake. Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at 350°F (175°C) before baking. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, which causes temperature fluctuations. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake layers — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Another mistake is neglecting to cool the cake properly before frosting. Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off, making the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake messy. Let the cake layers cool completely on a wire rack before assembling and frosting.
Failing to prepare the pans properly can cause sticking. Grease and line your cake pans to ensure the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake layers come out smoothly without breaking apart.
Finally, using underripe or watery strawberries in the filling can affect flavor and texture. Choose ripe, firm strawberries for the filling to complement the tangy lemon frosting in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
By avoiding these mistakes, your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake will be a showstopper — moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured every time.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
To make the most delicious and beautiful Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, here are some expert tips and tricks to enhance your baking process and final presentation.
Start with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Use fresh lemons for zest and juice to maximize flavor in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake. Fresh strawberries, not frozen, ensure a bright and sweet filling.
When zesting lemons, avoid the white pith beneath the skin, as it is bitter. Use a microplane or fine grater to get just the outer yellow layer for a clean citrus flavor in the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before baking. This helps the ingredients combine smoothly, creating a lighter batter and a softer crumb in the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
For extra moist cake layers, add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter along with the buttermilk. This small addition can make your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake even more tender and rich.
When assembling, spread the strawberry filling evenly but not too thickly to prevent the cake from becoming soggy. Use a piping bag or spatula to control the layer of filling between the cake layers of your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to help the lemon frosting set and firm up, making it easier to slice neat pieces.
To prevent the strawberry filling from running, macerate the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, then drain excess liquid before layering. This keeps your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake clean and attractive.
For a decorative touch, consider adding thin lemon slices or fresh strawberries on top, or dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple but elegant finish.
If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a little cream cheese for a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with the strawberry and lemon flavors in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
With these tips and tricks, your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake will not only taste amazing but also look stunning, perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to a delightful homemade dessert.
Suggestions for Serving and Pairing Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a versatile and delightful dessert that lends itself to many serving options and pairings. Whether for a birthday, brunch, or casual gathering, serving this cake with complementary sides and beverages will elevate the experience.
One popular suggestion is to serve the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake chilled or at room temperature. Chilling helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat slices, while serving at room temperature brings out the full flavor of the lemon and strawberry components. Both ways work beautifully depending on your preference.
For a festive touch, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or fresh whipped cream. The creamy textures balance the tangy lemon and sweet strawberries, creating a harmonious bite.
Fresh fruit platters featuring strawberries, blueberries, and citrus slices also complement the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake perfectly. The fresh fruit refreshes the palate and adds color and texture contrast to the dessert.
If you want a beverage pairing, iced tea with lemon, sparkling water infused with fresh mint and citrus, or a light lemonade are refreshing non-alcoholic choices. These drinks highlight the cake’s fruity, citrus notes without overwhelming its delicate flavor.
For a brunch setting, the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake pairs nicely with a light coffee or a fruit smoothie. It also works well as a sweet finish to a garden party or bridal shower menu.
Decoratively, adding edible flowers or lemon zest curls on the top of the cake enhances its visual appeal, making it a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
If you’re making the cake for a crowd, slice it into small squares or mini servings for easy sharing. This way, guests can enjoy the luscious Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake without feeling overly full.
Finally, this cake makes a lovely gift when wrapped carefully with a cake box or tin. Homemade treats like this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake always show thoughtfulness and care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
To help you master the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, here are answers to the most common questions bakers ask about this delicious recipe.
Q: Can I make the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to two days ahead and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature or refrigerated. Assemble and frost the cake the day you plan to serve it for the freshest flavor.
Q: How do I store leftover Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Fresh strawberries are best for the filling because frozen ones release excess moisture that can make the cake soggy. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly before using.
Q: What can I substitute for buttermilk in the recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with enough milk to make 1 cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding it to your batter.
Q: How do I get the lemon flavor to really stand out?
Use fresh lemon juice and zest from organic lemons. Adding zest to the frosting and cake batter boosts the lemon aroma and flavor in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and ensure other ingredients like baking powder are gluten-free.
Q: How do I avoid the cake from drying out?
Do not overbake the layers. Check for doneness early by inserting a toothpick. Also, avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake moist and tender.
Q: Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be mixed with the strawberries for a fun twist on the classic Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a truly delightful dessert that perfectly balances the sweet, juicy flavors of strawberries with the bright, zesty notes of lemon. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat, with its beautiful layers and vibrant colors making it an impressive centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe delivers moist, flavorful cake layers paired with luscious filling and frosting that will impress everyone.
Making the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake from scratch allows you to control the quality and freshness of every ingredient, ensuring that every bite bursts with authentic flavor. The process may seem detailed, but the step-by-step instructions simplify it, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. From mixing the batter with precision to creating the perfect strawberry lemon filling and frosting, this cake is a rewarding project that yields delicious results.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t hesitate to experiment slightly with the flavors or decorations to make the cake your own. The tips and tricks shared throughout this post are designed to help you avoid common mistakes and achieve the best texture and flavor.
Finally, the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake not only tastes incredible but also brings joy and celebration to any table. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a cake that’s bursting with fresh, fruity goodness. Your friends and family will thank you, and you’ll have a stunning homemade dessert to be proud of.
Happy baking!
