This Strawberry Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of lemon and strawberries. Its moist layers of lemon cake, paired with smooth strawberry buttercream, create a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this cake will impress your guests with its vibrant colors and irresistible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavor: The combination of lemon and strawberries brings a lively taste to every slice.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning cake.
- Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, this cake fits various occasions.
- Visual Appeal: Decorated with fresh strawberries and lemon slices, it looks as good as it tastes.
- Moist Texture: The sour cream in the batter ensures a tender crumb that everyone will enjoy.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will help you stay organized while preparing your Strawberry Lemon Cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 2 round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter for a fluffy texture.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
- Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.
Ingredients
This elegant and simple Strawberry Lemon Cake is so fresh and delicious! It has delicious layers of moist and fresh lemon cake layered together with smooth strawberry buttercream. A perfect spring and summer cake.
For the Cake
- 340 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 300 g granulated sugar
- Zest of one large organic lemon or two small
- 180 g butter (room temperature)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 240 g sour cream (room temperature)
- 60 g vegetable oil (e.g. canola oil)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Buttercream Frosting
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp freeze dried strawberry powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp whole milk (room temperature)
For Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- Lemon slices
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat the room-temperature butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture. Then mix in the lemon zest, sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Cakes
Once done baking, remove from oven and let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 8: Make Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat room-temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Once combined, add freeze-dried strawberry powder, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of strawberry buttercream on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Decorate with fresh strawberries and lemon slices as desired.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Lemon Cake, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Cake
Serving Strawberry Lemon Cake is a delightful experience. This cake can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Classic Slice
- A simple slice of the Strawberry Lemon Cake showcases its moist layers and vibrant flavors. Serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch.
With Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries to complement the cake’s flavors. The tartness of the berries enhances the sweetness of the cake.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness of the cream balances the richness of the strawberry buttercream.
Lemon Zest Garnish
- For an extra zing, sprinkle some lemon zest on top before serving. This adds a burst of citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream. The cold treat creates a delightful contrast to the warm, moist cake.
Tea or Coffee Service
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The flavors of lemon and strawberry complement both beverages perfectly.
How to Perfect Strawberry Lemon Cake
To ensure your Strawberry Lemon Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring all your ingredients are at room temperature helps create an even batter and promotes better mixing.
- Measure flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid compacting flour in your measuring cup, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Don’t overmix – Mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can result in tough cake layers due to gluten development.
- Check for doneness – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your cake is done.
- Cool completely before frosting – Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before applying frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Chill frosting if needed – If your strawberry buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it briefly to firm it up before frosting your cake.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemon Cake
Strawberry Lemon Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Lemon Sorbet – This light, icy treat provides a tart contrast that balances the rich buttercream.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie and goat cheese pairs nicely with both lemon and strawberry flavors.
- Pavlova – This meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fruits offers a similar lightness as the cake.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries – These decadent bites serve as an indulgent addition alongside slices of cake.
- Coconut Macaroons – Their chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor create an enjoyable pairing with strawberry notes.
- Minted Pea Salad – A fresh salad with peas and mint brings an unexpected but delightful contrast to this dessert.
- Lemon Bars – For those who love citrus desserts, lemon bars provide another layer of zesty sweetness alongside the main attraction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Strawberry Lemon Cake can be delightful, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for a perfect cake.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients like eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and affect the cake’s texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep your layers light and fluffy.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven correctly. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in a dry or undercooked cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can alter the cake’s structure and flavor.
- Skipping the lemon zest: Lemon zest adds essential flavor to the cake. Don’t skip it, as it enhances the overall taste of your Strawberry Lemon Cake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Lemon Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Strawberry Lemon Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place wrapped slices in the oven for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Lemon Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before incorporating them into your recipe.
How do I make Strawberry Buttercream for my Strawberry Lemon Cake?
To make strawberry buttercream, mix room temperature butter with powdered sugar and add freeze-dried strawberry powder. Adjust milk for desired consistency.
What are some variations of Strawberry Lemon Cake?
You can add cream cheese frosting or layer in fresh fruit between the cake layers for added flavor and texture!
Can I substitute lemon juice with another citrus?
Absolutely! Lime or orange juice can provide a different twist while maintaining that tangy flavor profile typical of a Strawberry Lemon Cake.
How do I ensure my cake layers are even?
Use kitchen scales to weigh each layer of batter before baking. This will help achieve evenly-sized layers for stacking.
Final Thoughts
This elegant Strawberry Lemon Cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress guests with its vibrant flavors. You can customize it by adding more fruits or trying different frostings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a refreshing dessert that celebrates spring and summer!
Strawberry Lemon Cake
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Strawberry Lemon Cake, a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the sweet juiciness of strawberries. This moist cake features tender layers enriched with sour cream and is generously frosted with a smooth strawberry buttercream. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this cake not only impresses with its stunning presentation—adorned with fresh strawberries and lemon slices—but also captivates taste buds with every slice. Whether celebrating a birthday, enjoying a picnic, or hosting a festive gathering, this Strawberry Lemon Cake is sure to be the star of the show.
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Ingredients
- 340 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 300 g granulated sugar
- Zest of one large organic lemon or two small
- 180 g butter (room temperature)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 240 g sour cream (room temperature)
- 60 g vegetable oil (e.g. canola oil)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp freeze dried strawberry powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp whole milk (room temperature)
- Fresh strawberries
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans lined with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy; then add eggs one at a time along with lemon zest, sour cream, oil, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting with strawberry buttercream made by mixing butter, powdered sugar, strawberry powder, vanilla extract, and milk.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. For added flavor variations, consider incorporating lime juice or using fresh strawberries in the frosting.
