Strawberry Cake with Lemon Cream Topping

Strawberry Cake with Lemon Cream Topping is a fresh and vibrant dessert perfect for spring and summer. With a moist, fluffy crumb loaded with sweet strawberries and topped with a light, zesty lemon cream, this cake strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It’s simple enough for everyday enjoyment yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fruity flavor with a refreshing lemony finish
• Made with fresh strawberries—no artificial flavors
• Light, fluffy texture perfect for warm weather
• Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
• Easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk or milk with lemon juice
• Fresh strawberries, diced
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Alternate dry and wet ingredients: Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in strawberries: Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the cake completely on a wire rack before topping.
9. Make the lemon cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice; continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
10. Assemble: Spread the lemon cream over the cooled cake and garnish with fresh strawberries or lemon zest if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake: Double the recipe, slice each cake in half, and layer with lemon cream between and on top.
• Berry Blend: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a triple berry twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Lemon Glaze Finish: Add a lemon glaze (powdered sugar and lemon juice) under the whipped cream for extra zing.
• Cupcake Option: Bake as cupcakes and pipe the lemon cream on top.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.
• Reheating: This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating the whipped topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Can I make the lemon cream ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Rewhip slightly if needed.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Use regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this cake in a different pan?

Yes, it works in a bundt pan, loaf pan, or as cupcakes—just adjust the baking time.

How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking?

Toss them lightly in flour before folding into the batter.

Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade cream?

You can, but homemade lemon cream gives a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add lemon zest to the cake itself?

Yes, adding lemon zest to the batter intensifies the lemon flavor.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, the lemon cream balances the sweetness of the cake for a refreshing result.

What pairs well with this cake?

Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of sparkling wine.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cake with Lemon Cream Topping is a delightful treat that captures the fresh, fruity flavors of the season. The moist strawberry cake and tangy lemon cream make an irresistible combination that’s as easy to love as it is to make. Whether for brunch, birthdays, or casual dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.

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