Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake – Bright & Bakery-Style

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a fresh, vibrant dessert that balances sweet strawberries with bright lemon flavor. Soft lemon cake layers pair perfectly with strawberry filling and creamy frosting, creating a beautiful, crowd-pleasing cake that feels light yet indulgent. This recipe works wonderfully for spring gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want a show-stopping homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh strawberry and lemon flavors shine
• Soft, tender cake layers with balanced sweetness
• Beautiful presentation for celebrations
• Made with simple, familiar ingredients
• Perfect for spring and summer baking

Ingredients

Lemon Cake

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Filling

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk until batter is smooth.
7. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake 25–30 minutes.
8. Cool cakes completely on wire racks.
9. Cook strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until thickened. Cool.
10. Beat butter for frosting, then add powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
11. Assemble cake with strawberry filling between layers and frost the outside evenly.

Tips & Variations

• Use room-temperature ingredients for smooth batter
• Chill cake layers before frosting for cleaner layers
• Add sliced strawberries between layers for texture
• Swap lemon frosting for vanilla if preferred
• Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted layers up to 2 months
• Reheating: Bring to room temperature before serving
• Wrap layers tightly to prevent freezer burn
• Best flavor when served slightly chilled

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with fresh berries on the side
• Pair with tea or lemonade
• Garnish with lemon slices or zest
• Ideal for birthdays, showers, and holidays
• Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake layers in advance and assemble the day of serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works if needed.

How do I keep layers moist?

Avoid overbaking and store wrapped once cooled.

Can I use a different frosting?

Cream cheese frosting also pairs well with lemon and strawberry.

Ready to Make It?

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake brings together bright citrus, sweet berries, and soft cake layers for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Whether for a celebration or casual gathering, this cake delivers fresh flavor and bakery-style results at home.

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