Introduction
There’s something truly magical about a slice of cake that perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the zesty brightness of lemon. This Strawberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake not only looks stunning with its vibrant pink and yellow hues, but it also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The rich, creamy texture of the buttermilk gives the cake a delightful moisture that you won’t be able to resist. Whether it’s for a summer gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1½ cups chopped fresh strawberries (patted dry)
For the lemon glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Optional: extra lemon zest or strawberry slices for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake comes out easily.
- Cream butter & sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Add wet ingredients: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, then blend in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This combination adds a wonderful fragrance to the batter.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
- Combine wet & dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined for a tender crumb.
- Fold in strawberries: Carefully fold in the chopped, patted-dry strawberries to avoid crushing them, preserving their fresh burst of flavor in the cake.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as it bakes to catch that golden brown perfection!
- Cool & glaze: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. While it cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and garnish with extra lemon zest or strawberry slices if you like.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure to pat the strawberries dry before folding them into the batter to prevent excess moisture.
- For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of limoncello to the glaze.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container; just add the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a great opportunity to practice the creaming method, which is essential in baking. By creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy, you incorporate air into the batter, helping the cake rise beautifully. Remember to alternate adding wet and dry ingredients to maintain a smooth consistency and achieve the ideal texture.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- What can I substitute for buttermilk? You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
- How should I store leftover cake? Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake is not just a delightful dessert, but a celebration of flavors that reminds us of sunny days and sweet moments. Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family picnics, it’s a cake that’s sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and enjoy every slice of this sunshine in a cake!