Strawberry Lemon Cake

This delightful Strawberry Lemon Cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, from birthday parties to summer picnics. The bright flavors of fresh lemon and strawberries create a light and refreshing dessert that everyone will love. With its moist layers of lemon cake and smooth strawberry buttercream, this cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet strawberries creates a taste that is both vibrant and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Despite its elegant appearance, this cake comes together quickly and easily with straightforward steps.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a casual gathering, this cake is sure to impress your guests.
• Versatile Presentation: You can decorate it with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for an eye-catching finish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake serves 12, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your buttercream is creamy and well-mixed without any lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cake.

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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)

To Decorate

• Fresh strawberries
• Lemon slices

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Granulated sugar
Add the lemon zest and mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

To the creamed mixture, add:
1. Eggs (one at a time)
2. Sour cream
3. Vegetable oil
4. Lemon juice
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Strawberry Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Powdered sugar
Add freeze-dried strawberry powder, vanilla extract, and milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

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

Step 10: Decorate

Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for an appealing presentation before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Lemon Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Cake

Serving Strawberry Lemon Cake can elevate any gathering or celebration. This refreshing dessert pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake alongside fresh strawberries and blueberries for a vibrant color contrast and added freshness.

A Scoop of Sorbet

• Complement each slice with a scoop of lemon or strawberry sorbet. The icy treat adds a delightful chill and enhances the fruity flavors.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. The creamy texture balances the cake’s brightness perfectly.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the top before serving. This extra touch adds visual appeal and a burst of citrus aroma.

Mint Leaves

• Add a few sprigs of fresh mint as garnish. It not only looks great but also provides a refreshing herbal note.

Tea or Coffee Pairing

• Serve with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. The warmth complements the cake’s flavors, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemon Cake

Achieving the ideal Strawberry Lemon Cake involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature for better emulsification and fluffiness in the batter.
• Measure flour properly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Avoid packing it down to prevent a dense cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when the cake is done baking.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Frosting on warm cakes can cause melting and sliding.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemon Cake

Strawberry Lemon Cake is delightful on its own, but pairing it with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mixture of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake, enhancing its fruity flavor profile.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for an added crunch and creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake layers.
3. Pistachio Crumble
   A nutty crumble sprinkled on top adds texture and flavor depth, pairing wonderfully with the fruity notes in the cake.
4. Citrus Salad
   A salad made from oranges, grapefruits, and lime dressing offers bright acidity that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
5. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta alongside crackers for a savory option that contrasts nicely with dessert flavors.
6. Iced Green Tea
   Refreshing iced green tea acts as a palate cleanser between bites, keeping things light after indulging in rich cake flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Lemon Cake can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amount of flour or sugar can lead to an imbalanced cake. Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can prevent proper mixing. Make sure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure a tender cake.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before placing your cake inside.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too soon can lead to crumbling. Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting for better stability.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Lemon Cake in an airtight container.
• The cake will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Lemon Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it is well-protected from freezer burn.

Reheating Strawberry Lemon Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid on for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Strawberry Lemon Cake that may help you perfect this delicious treat.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberry powder?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries blended into puree as an alternative. Just adjust the amount of powdered sugar accordingly.

How do I make the Strawberry Lemon Cake gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work well. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I replace sour cream with yogurt?

Absolutely! Plain yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will still yield a moist cake.

What’s the best way to frost my Strawberry Lemon Cake?

Use an offset spatula to spread the strawberry buttercream evenly between layers and on top of the cake for a beautiful finish.

How long does it take for the cake batter to rise?

The batter should rise while baking, usually within the first few minutes of being placed in the preheated oven.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Lemon Cake is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for any occasion. From birthdays to picnics, it delights everyone who tries it. Feel free to customize with different fruits or frostings based on your preferences!