Strawberry Lemon Cake

This Strawberry Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends tangy lemon with sweet strawberry flavors. Ideal for any occasion, from birthday parties to summer gatherings, this cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The moist layers of lemon cake paired with smooth strawberry buttercream make for a refreshing treat that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and strawberry offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday or a summer picnic, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Customizable: Add your favorite fruits or toppings to make it uniquely yours.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the strawberries and lemon make this cake a showstopper.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Cake pans
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to whip butter and sugar until fluffy, ensuring a light texture in your cake.
• Cake pans: Provide even baking and help achieve perfectly shaped layers for stacking.

Ingredients

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 Strawberry Buttercream

• 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 Decoration

• Fresh strawberries
• Lemon slices

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Whisk together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Granulated sugar

Mix until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate the sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make Strawberry Buttercream

In a clean bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Powdered sugar
3. Freeze dried strawberry powder
4. Vanilla extract

Add milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread an even layer of strawberry buttercream on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.

Step 9: Decorate

Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for an eye-catching finish!

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Strawberry Lemon Cake, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Cake

Serving Strawberry Lemon Cake can elevate any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. The vibrant flavors and stunning presentation make it a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table.

Elegant Dessert Platter

• Arrange slices of Strawberry Lemon Cake on a decorative platter. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Afternoon Tea Delight

• Pair individual slices with a selection of herbal teas. The bright flavors of the cake complement floral tea varieties perfectly.

Birthday Celebration

• Adorn the cake with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for a festive look. This adds a playful touch to birthday celebrations.

Picnic Treat

• Pack slices in airtight containers for an outdoor picnic. The refreshing taste of the cake is perfect for enjoying in the sun.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemon Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Lemon Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allow eggs, butter, and sour cream to sit at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour and other dry components helps avoid lumps and creates a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix batter – Gently mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cakes.

• Cool completely before frosting – Ensure the cake layers are fully cooled before applying the strawberry buttercream to avoid melting.

• Store properly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemon Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Lemon Cake can enhance its appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Lemon Sorbet – A light and refreshing palate cleanser that complements the citrus flavors of the cake.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and brightness, balancing the richness of the cake.

3. Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy contrast that pairs well with each slice.

4. Iced Tea – Serve sweetened or unsweetened iced tea as a refreshing drink option alongside the dessert.

5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These treats add an indulgent touch while echoing the flavors of the cake.

6. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes people make when baking Strawberry Lemon Cake. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately with proper tools. Using too much or too little can affect the cake’s texture and flavor.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.

• Overmixing the batter: Mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.

• Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Lemon Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Lemon Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet for a few minutes, covered, to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Strawberry Lemon Cake.

How can I make my Strawberry Lemon Cake more lemony?

You can increase the lemon juice or zest in both the cake and frosting for a stronger lemon flavor.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Yes, but be aware that fresh strawberries will add moisture. Adjust your buttercream accordingly by adding more powdered sugar if needed.

What is the best way to decorate my Strawberry Lemon Cake?

You can top it with fresh strawberries, lemon slices, or even edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

How long will my Strawberry Lemon Cake last at room temperature?

If stored properly under a cake dome or covered with plastic wrap, it can last about 2 days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Lemon Cake is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or adjusting the flavors in the frosting. It’s perfect for spring gatherings or just as a delightful treat at home!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Strawberry Lemon Cake

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Strawberry Lemon Cake, a delightful dessert that effortlessly combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of ripe strawberries. Perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to summer picnics—this cake features moist lemon layers and a luscious strawberry buttercream that will leave your guests craving more. With its stunning presentation and refreshing taste, this treat is sure to be the centerpiece of your dessert table. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress their friends and family with a homemade masterpiece.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
3. In another bowl, beat together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate the sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
7. In a clean bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, freeze-dried strawberry powder, and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
8. Once cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread an even layer of strawberry buttercream on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.
9. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for an eye-catching finish!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 36g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg