Light, fruity, and impossibly moist, this Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers recipe is like sunshine on a plate. Imagine vibrant layers of zesty lemon cake, cushioned between clouds of strawberry cream and fresh berry slices. Every bite brings a balance of tangy citrus and sweet, juicy strawberries—a match made for spring and summer indulgence.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a garden party, or just treating yourself to something special, this cake delivers joy in every forkful. The creamy frosting, topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a slice of lemon with a whole strawberry, adds a stunning finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

This cake combines the brightness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of strawberries in the most irresistible way. The lemon layers are rich but airy, offering a vibrant citrus burst without being too tart. Combined with strawberry preserves and whipped cream cheese frosting, each layer melts beautifully in your mouth. It’s easy to assemble, eye-catching, and ideal for spring brunches, baby showers, or summertime birthdays.

What Kind of Lemons and Strawberries Work Best?

For this cake, fresh is always best. Choose organic lemons with a thin, fragrant skin for zesting and juicing. Meyer lemons are a softer, slightly sweeter alternative that still offer a bright lemony profile. As for strawberries, opt for ripe, in-season berries—they’ll be sweeter and juicier, perfect for both filling and topping. Macerating them in a bit of sugar enhances their natural flavor even more.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in delivering flavor, texture, and beauty.

All-Purpose Flour: Creates the soft but stable structure for each cake layer.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake a nice lift and helps maintain fluffiness.
Salt: Enhances the lemon flavor and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the batter and a buttery depth.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that golden crumb.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and give body and structure to the cake.
Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Brings a bright citrus punch to each bite.
Buttermilk: Ensures the cake stays moist and tender.
Strawberries: Used fresh and macerated for filling and decor.
Strawberry Preserves: Intensifies the fruity layers.
Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting: A light, tangy finish that complements both fruits beautifully.

How To Make the Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Mix in lemon juice and zest. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry.

Step 2: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 22–26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Slice fresh strawberries and mix with a bit of sugar to macerate for about 15 minutes. This step draws out their juices and intensifies the flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread a layer of strawberry preserves on the first cake layer, then top with whipped cream cheese frosting and the macerated strawberries. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost the outside and top with more strawberries and a lemon slice.

How to Serve and Store This Strawberry Lemonade Cake

This cake serves 10 to 12 people generously, making it great for gatherings. For serving, slice with a serrated knife and clean the blade between cuts to keep the layers neat.

To store, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving to bring out the best flavors. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to a month.

What to Serve With Strawberry Lemonade Cake?

Fresh Berry Salad

The perfect light side to echo the flavors in the cake.

Iced Mint Tea

A cooling contrast that balances the sweetness with herbal notes.

Whipped Greek Yogurt with Honey

Great as a light, tangy side dish for those who want less sweetness.

Sparkling Lemonade

Double up on the citrus theme with a bubbly touch.

White Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

A touch of elegance to go with a festive cake.

Lemon Basil Sorbet

A refreshing palate cleanser to pair with each bite.

Creamy Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For those who want a richer pairing that complements the fruity flavors.

Want More Cake Ideas Bursting with Fruit?

If this Strawberry Lemonade Cake Layers made your taste buds dance, you’ll love these other creations:

Magic Lemon Cobbler for an easy, spoonable lemon treat.
Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake packed with tangy berry goodness.
Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake for a nostalgic, fizzy twist.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a creamy citrus-meets-berry bite.
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you’re in the mood for indulgent decadence.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra strawberries or drizzle lemon glaze on top? Did you try layering it with jam and whipped cream?

I love hearing how others put their own spin on these cakes. If you have any questions or tips, share them below.

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