There’s something about the combination of strawberries and lemon that sends my taste buds into a joyful dance. The sweet, juicy strawberries mixed with the zesty brightness of lemon create a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, a gentle breeze, and a slice of strawberry lemon layer cake in hand. Pure bliss!
This Strawberry Lemon Layer is more than just dessert; it’s a memory waiting to happen. I remember the first time I made it for my family during a summer barbecue. Their faces lit up with delight as they took their first bite, and I knew I had struck gold with this recipe. Perfect for birthdays or lazy weekends, this cake promises to lift your spirits and tantalize your palate like nothing else. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert options recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Strawberry Lemon Layer is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of any level
- The bright flavors burst in your mouth, while the stunning layers make it a showstopper at any gathering
- It’s versatile enough to enjoy at brunch or as an after-dinner treat
- Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family without breaking a sweat!
I once brought this delightful cake to a potluck, and you wouldn’t believe how quickly it vanished! Everyone was raving about its unique flavor.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture in each layer.
- Granulated Sugar: Essential for sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Baking Powder: Fresh baking powder ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates light and fluffy layers; always use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- Eggs: Bring them to room temperature for better emulsification into the batter.
- Milk: Use whole milk for richness; buttermilk works wonders too if you have it on hand.
- Fresh Strawberries: Pick ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor; slice them thinly for even distribution.
- Lemon Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best tangy flavor; zest adds aromatic oils that enhance sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar (for frosting): Essential for creating that smooth frosting texture; sift before using to prevent lumps.
- Heavy Cream (for frosting): Whipping cream provides richness and stability in your frosting; chill before whipping.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter and dust them lightly with flour.
Create the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add Dry Ingredients Gradually: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with milk until combined.
Add Zesty Flavors!: Gently fold in the lemon juice and zest along with half of your sliced strawberries into the batter until evenly distributed.
Bake Until Golden Brown!: Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool Down Time!: Once baked, let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Whip Up That Frosting!: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to whip until you reach stiff peaks.
Assemble Your Masterpiece!: Place one cake layer on a serving plate spread icing generously on top followed by more sliced strawberries. Add the second layer on top and frost all around!
And there you have it! A divine Strawberry Lemon Layer that will make any occasion special. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation filled with laughter and sweet memories!
You Must Know
- This delightful Strawberry Lemon Layer dessert brings a burst of freshness to your taste buds
- The sweet strawberries and zesty lemon create a perfect balance, making it a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, even for novice bakers
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve stunning layers, start with the lemon layer first, allowing it to set while preparing the strawberry topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist on flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but enjoy it fresh for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This recipe is all about balance; ensure you don’t over-sweeten the lemon layer!
- Using fresh strawberries will enhance the flavor dramatically and give a vibrant color
- Always let each layer cool completely before assembling for beautiful presentation
I remember the first time I made this Strawberry Lemon Layer; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar.
FAQ
Can I make this Strawberry Lemon Layer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just store it covered in the fridge.
What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
Frozen strawberries can be used; just thaw and drain excess moisture before layering.
How do I ensure my lemon layer sets properly?
Make sure you follow the cooling times precisely and use quality gelatin for best results.
Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake, where sweet strawberries meet zesty lemon in a heavenly dessert. This cake embodies summer bliss, perfect for celebrations or casual afternoons. With its stunning layers and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make, this treat promises joy in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture alternating with milk until combined.
- Fold in lemon juice, zest, and half of the sliced strawberries into the batter.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form; gradually add powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble by placing one cake layer on a serving plate, spreading frosting on top with more sliced strawberries before adding the second layer and frosting the entire cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg