Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

If you are searching for a vibrant, refreshing dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, look no further than this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe. With its tender lemon-infused cake layers, luscious strawberry filling, and creamy frosting, this cake is a celebration of spring and summer flavors all baked into one stunning dessert. It’s a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also brightens up any occasion with its beautiful colors and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe plays an essential role in building flavor, texture, and stunning presentation. These simple yet thoughtfully chosen components come together to create a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for soft, tender cake layers.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise with a light, airy crumb.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for optimal leavening.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet and tart flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the lemon zest.
• 4 large eggs: Provide structure and a silky texture.
• 2 tbsp lemon zest: Bursting with bright lemon aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds refreshing tang and moistens the batter.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Keeps the cake tender and adds subtle acidity.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped: The star of the filling with natural sweetness.
• 1/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the strawberry filling perfectly.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry mixture to the ideal consistency.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry filling.
• 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Ensures a rich and tangy frosting.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Creates a smooth, creamy frosting base.
• 5 cups powdered sugar: Gives the frosting sweetness and fluffy texture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a comforting vanilla note to the frosting.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This creates the perfect foundation for evenly baked, easy-to-remove cake layers.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed for a perfect rise later on.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This aerates your batter, which contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to build volume.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Vanilla

Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients infuse the batter with vibrant citrus aroma and warmth that makes this cake a true standout.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the cake tender and moist.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The alluring scent of lemon will have you eager for the next step.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This prevents the layers from breaking and prepares them for assembling.

Step 8: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook until the mixture thickens beautifully. Let this cool completely for a luscious filling that bursts with fresh strawberry flavor.

Step 9: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. This frosting is the perfect balance of rich and tangy to complement the cake and filling.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Start with a cake layer, spread a generous amount of the strawberry filling, then cover with cream cheese frosting. Repeat with the second cake layer, filling, and frosting until all layers are stacked. This creates a tower of delight that tastes as good as it looks.

Step 11: Frost and Garnish

Frost the outside of the cake using the remaining cream cheese frosting. To finish, garnish with fresh strawberries and thin lemon slices if you like, adding a delightful fresh touch and extra color.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries and lemon slices not only add a gorgeous visual appeal but also enhance the fresh citrus and berry flavors with every bite. A sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest on top can also brighten the presentation and the palate.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside a light dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add creaminess that complements the cake’s tangy and sweet layers beautifully. A simple mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette makes a surprising, refreshing side for a brunch or celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving slices on pretty dessert plates sprinkled with crushed freeze-dried strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for extra flair. You could also present mini versions of this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe in jars for a charming, portable treat day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 4 days, perfect for savoring the next day, or even the day after.

Freezing

The cake layers can be frozen separately wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before adding frosting and assembling, so you can enjoy this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe anytime without fuss.

Reheating

This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer, bring refrigerated slices out for 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting slightly, enhancing the rich, creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery filling. Adjust the cooking time slightly until the mixture thickens nicely.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles, then use as directed in the recipe.

Is this cake suitable for freezing after it’s fully assembled?

While you can freeze the entire assembled cake, it’s best to freeze it without fresh garnishes to maintain texture. Wrap tightly, and defrost in the fridge overnight before serving.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend is possible, but results may vary. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better structure, and follow any package instructions for best outcomes.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too soft?

Use room temperature butter and cream cheese and beat the frosting just until fluffy, not too long. Chill the cake briefly before serving to firm up the frosting if your kitchen is warm.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe is truly one of those special desserts that brings sunshine to your table no matter the season. It’s a mix of bright, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped in soft, moist layers, topped with a dreamy frosting that makes every bite unforgettable. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly it turns any occasion into a celebration of fresh, joyful flavors!

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