Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe is a vibrant celebration of fresh, tangy, and sweet flavors perfectly combined in a stunning, multi-layered cake. This delightful dessert features moist lemon-infused cake layers, a luscious strawberry filling bursting with natural fruitiness, and a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting that ties everything together in pure harmony. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten up an ordinary day, this cake promises a show-stopping centerpiece that tastes as wonderful as it looks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe relies on simple pantry staples paired with fresh ingredients to create layers of unforgettable flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role — from the zest of lemon brightening the batter to the fresh strawberries lending natural sweetness and color to the filling, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy finish.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and tenderness to your cake layers.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Essential for a light, fluffy crumb in the cake.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps balance acidity and aids leavening alongside the baking powder.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Provides richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar: Sweetens and contributes to the tender crumb and beautiful browning.
• 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure and stability.
• 2 tbsp lemon zest: Gives a punch of fresh, zesty citrus aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Adds natural tartness for a bright contrast to the sweet cake.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist with a gentle tang, complementing the lemon.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile, mellowing the citrus with warmth.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped: The star of the filling, bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1/3 cup sugar: Sweeter strawberries for a luscious, thick filling.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling for perfect layering.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a slight tang to the filling.
• 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature: For creamy, tangy frosting that pairs beautifully with fruit flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
• 5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and stiffens the frosting to the right consistency.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings harmony and rounds out the cream cheese frosting flavors.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out perfectly without sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — this ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial because the air you incorporate will give your cake a beautiful rise and tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep that creamy texture smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Flavor the Batter

Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to your wet ingredients, infusing the batter with bright citrus notes and warm vanilla undertones. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible at this point!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Mix just until combined after each addition to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake tough. The buttermilk adds moisture and a subtle tang that beautifully complements the lemon zest.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Proper cooling is essential to avoid melting your frosting later!

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Filling

While the cakes cool, it’s time to make that luscious strawberry filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir consistently until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Allow it to cool completely so it sets nicely between the cake layers without oozing out.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This frosting offers a creamy tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake and filling.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake Layers

Now comes the fun part – assembly! Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread a generous layer of strawberry filling over it, followed by a thick layer of cream cheese frosting. Repeat the layering with the second cake and filling, then top it off with the last cake layer.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Cover the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out for a polished appearance. For an extra touch of beauty and flavor, garnish with fresh strawberries and thin lemon slices right on top. Your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe is ready to wow everyone!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries and lemon slices make stunning, natural garnishes that enhance the visual appeal of the cake while providing bursts of fresh flavor in every bite. You can also sprinkle a little lemon zest over the top for an added aromatic pop.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh side like a mixed green salad with citrus dressing to balance the sweetness, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream if you want to treat yourself to an extra indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the cake on a chic cake stand with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves scattered around the plate. Cutting the cake into elegant wedges and serving with a drizzle of fresh strawberry sauce can elevate any celebration or casual gathering alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe tastes just as wonderful the next day when stored properly. Keep it covered in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either as whole layers before assembly or as a fully assembled, frosted cake. Wrap each layer well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled due to the cream cheese frosting, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer it slightly less cold, let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to take the edge off the chill.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid, which can affect the filling’s thickness.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and it will mimic the acidity and texture of buttermilk perfectly.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the frosting?

Cream cheese adds a lovely tang and richness that complement the strawberry and lemon flavors, but you could substitute with a classic buttercream if you prefer a sweeter, less tangy frosting.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure that contains xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

How long does it take to bake the cake layers?

Each cake layer bakes for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F (180°C). Start checking at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick to ensure they don’t overbake and dry out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking a Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe from scratch. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience of bright flavors, luscious textures, and loving effort that brings joy to any table. I encourage you to try making this cake – your friends and family will thank you, and you just might find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

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