Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake

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Sure! Here’s a complete and comprehensive recipe for the dreamy πŸ“πŸ‹ Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake β€” full of flavor, love, and culinary magic.

πŸ“πŸ‹ Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake πŸŽ‚

Fluffy lemon cake + strawberry compote + silky buttercream = Summer perfection!

🌟 Introduction:

Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake is the ultimate fusion of sweet and tangy flavors. This cake brings together the bright citrus punch of lemons with the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries. Perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, spring and summer picnicsβ€”or simply to impress your loved ones. With its beautiful layers, vibrant colors, and refreshing taste, this dessert is a celebration in every bite.

πŸ₯£ Ingredients

For the Lemon Cake:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 Β½ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 Β½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • Β½ teaspoon baking soda
  • Β½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Fresh Strawberry Compote:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
  • β…“ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 Β½ cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • Pinch of salt

For Decoration:

  • White chocolate drizzle (Β½ cup white chocolate chips + 1 tsp coconut oil)
  • Fresh strawberries and lemon slices
  • Edible flowers or mint leaves (optional)

🧁 Instructions & Method

πŸ”Ή Step 1: Make the Lemon Cake Layers

  1. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon zest, juice, and vanilla.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour.
  6. Divide batter evenly into the pans. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

πŸ”Ή Step 2: Make Strawberry Compote

  1. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Simmer over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick.
  3. If needed, stir in cornstarch to thicken. Let cool completely.

πŸ”Ή Step 3: Prepare Lemon Buttercream

  1. Beat butter until creamy and pale.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar.
  3. Mix in lemon juice, vanilla, and cream until fluffy.
  4. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

πŸ”Ή Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Level cake layers with a knife if domed.
  2. Place first layer on cake stand, spread a thin layer of buttercream, then a spoonful of strawberry compote.
  3. Repeat with second and third layers.
  4. Frost the entire cake with lemon buttercream.
  5. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top and let it drip down the sides.
  6. Decorate with fresh strawberries, lemon slices, and edible flowers.

πŸ›οΈ History of the Dish

The idea of lemon cakes dates back to early English tea cakes, while strawberries have long been paired with cream and pastry in European desserts. Combining both in a modern American-style layer cake represents the fusion of traditional citrus cakes with the fruity brightness of a strawberry compote β€” popularized in spring/summer cookbooks and by bakers on social media for their visual appeal and refreshing flavor.

πŸ’– Benefits of This Cake

  • πŸ‹ Lemon supports digestion and is high in vitamin C.
  • πŸ“ Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients.
  • 🍰 Homemade cakes are free from preservatives and full of love.
  • 🍽️ Emotionally comforting and perfect for sharing at celebrations.

🧬 Formation and Structure

  • 3-tiered structure with a solid crumb and moist interior.
  • Alternating layers of fruit and frosting prevent dryness.
  • Buttercream locks in moisture and complements tart compote.
  • White chocolate adds sweetness and visual drama.

πŸ‘©β€β€οΈβ€πŸ‘¨ For Cake Lovers:

This cake is for:

  • Lovers of sweet-tart flavors.
  • Elegant dessert fans.
  • Summer picnic goers.
  • Passionate bakers who love creating edible art.
  • Anyone who lights up at the sight of strawberries and sunshine.

🍽️ Nutrition (Per Slice – Estimation):

  • Calories: ~470
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Sugars: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Vitamin C: 25% DV

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredient brands and portion size.

πŸ” Conclusion (with More Cake Lovers!):

Strawberry Lemonade Layer Cake is more than a dessertβ€”it’s a celebration of seasons, flavors, and love. Every bite is a reminder of sunny days, picnics, and the beauty of handcrafted baking. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, surprising someone you love, or simply treating yourself, this cake will leave hearts full and plates empty.

So grab your spatula, turn on your mixer, and bake with joy! πŸŽ‚πŸ’•

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