Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
A delightful multi-layered cake featuring fluffy, moist layers with fresh strawberries and zesty lemon, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Filling Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream adjust for consistency
Garnish Ingredients
- to taste fresh strawberries, sliced
- to taste lemon zest optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cake Mixing
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk with lemon juice, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Filling Preparation
- Combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit until juicy.
Frosting Preparation
- Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with heavy cream as needed.
Assembly
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the top.
- Top with the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides with lemon buttercream frosting.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and optional lemon zest.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. For added flavor, consider more lemon zest or layer with whipped cream or other fruits.