Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for spring, summer, birthdays, picnics, and celebrations. It combines the bright, refreshing flavor of lemonade with the sweet fruity taste of fresh strawberries in a soft, moist layer cake. Every slice is light, colorful, and bursting with sunshine-inspired flavor.
This beautiful cake features tender lemon cake layers, creamy strawberry frosting, and a balance of sweet and tangy notes that make it irresistible. Whether you are baking for family, guests, or a special event, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Prep Time
30 minutes
Bake Time
28 minutes
Cooling Time
1 hour
Total Time
1 hour 58 minutes
Servings
10 to 12 slices
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cake Layers
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Strawberry Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup strawberry puree or thick strawberry jam
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Decoration
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Lemon slices or zest curls
- Extra frosting for piping
Equipment Needed
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in eggs one at a time. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Batter
Add dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully.
Step 8: Make Strawberry Frosting
Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in strawberry puree, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt until fluffy. If too soft, chill briefly.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Add second cake layer and frost top and sides.
Step 10: Decorate
Top with fresh strawberries, lemon zest, or piped frosting swirls.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Bright fresh lemon flavor
- Sweet strawberry frosting
- Soft and moist cake texture
- Beautiful for celebrations
- Perfect warm-weather dessert
- Refreshing balance of sweet and tangy
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Chill frosting if it becomes too soft.
- Cool cake layers fully before frosting.
Delicious Variations
Strawberry Filling Version
Add sliced strawberries between layers.
Extra Lemon Version
Brush layers with lemon syrup before frosting.
Cupcake Version
Turn batter into cupcakes and frost individually.
Cream Cheese Frosting Option
Use strawberry cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
