Are you in the mood for a refreshing and delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tart zing of lemons? If so, look no further than strawberry lemonade cake! This cake not only brings together the best of both flavors, but it also makes an ideal treat for any gathering or special occasion.
If you’re a fan of fruity desserts, you’ll absolutely love this cake. Just like other berry-based desserts, such as strawberry shortcake cheesecake, this cake highlights the natural flavors of fresh fruit. So, without further delay, let’s dive into the recipe and get started!
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemonade Cake
To make this delicious cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberry puree (or strawberry extract)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup whole milk
For the lemon buttercream frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup strawberry puree (optional for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
First, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 9-inch round cake pans. After that, follow these steps:
- In the beginning, sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even mixing of the dry ingredients.
- Next, in a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
- Following that, slowly add the strawberry puree, lemon juice, and lemon zest to enhance the fruity flavor of the batter.
- Gradually, alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, ensuring the batter remains smooth and well-combined.
- Finally, divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Afterward, allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
For more inspiration on fruity flavors, you might also enjoy reading this guide to strawberry shortcake cheesecake, another berry-infused delight.
2. Making the Lemon Buttercream Frosting
While the cakes cool, it’s time to prepare the frosting:
- First, beat the butter until smooth and creamy to ensure a light texture.
- Gradually, add the confectioners’ sugar, beating continuously until the mixture becomes fluffy and light.
- Then, add the lemon juice and zest to give the frosting a refreshing citrusy zing and balance the sweetness.
For more fruity dessert ideas, don’t forget to check out our guide on creating strawberry shortcake cheesecake.
3. Assembling and Decorating the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble them:
- First, place one cake layer on a plate and spread a generous amount of lemon buttercream frosting on top.
- Next, place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- For an extra touch, optionally drizzle strawberry puree over the top for additional flavor and decoration.
Baking Tips for Strawberry Lemonade Cake
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips. You can also read more on how to bake a perfect cake for additional guidance.
- Firstly, use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and lemons offer the best flavor, so always opt for the freshest produce available.
- Secondly, test for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is done.
- Lastly, cool completely before frosting: If the cake is too warm, the frosting will melt, so it’s essential to be patient.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the strawberry lemonade cake:
- Calories per slice (approx.): 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugars: 40g
- Protein: 4g
You can always adjust the sugar levels in the frosting or cake if you prefer a less sweet version.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free cake flour blend. In that case, be sure to follow the instructions on the blend package for the best results.
Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?
Definitely! You can try raspberries, blueberries, or even blackberries for a different twist, as they will still complement the lemon flavor beautifully.
How long can I store the cake?
The cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. However, if you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for up to 1 week to keep it fresher longer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, with its delightful combination of sweet strawberries and zesty lemons, this strawberry lemonade cake is a refreshing, fruity dessert that’s perfect for any event or celebration. Whether you’re a fan of berry cakes or simply looking for something new and exciting to try, this cake is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Moreover, feel free to explore other fruity desserts like strawberry shortcake cheesecake for even more delicious inspiration!