 Strawberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake – A Bright, Moist & Flavorful Summer Treat!
If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly blends the sweetness of strawberries with the tart brightness of lemon, this Strawberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake is everything you need. It’s soft, moist, full of natural fruity flavors, and topped with a tangy lemon glaze that makes it utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party, picnic, or simply craving a slice of sunshine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (freshly grated for stronger aroma)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped and patted dry
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Optional: extra lemon zest or strawberry slices for garnish
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed. Beat for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step creates the light texture of the cake.
3. Add the Eggs and Flavors
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—do not overmix.
6. Fold in the Strawberries
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Be sure they’re patted dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture.
7. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Every oven varies, so start checking around 33 minutes.
8. Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the glaze set properly.Â
How to Make the Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less lemon juice.
Optional Twist: Add a touch of lemon zest for an extra punch of citrus flavor.
 Decorating & Serving Suggestions
Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Let it drip down the sides for that irresistible bakery-style look. Garnish with thinly sliced fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of lemon zest to make it pop visually and flavor-wise.
 Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t skip drying the strawberries—wet berries will sink and create soggy spots.
- Fresh lemon juice only! Bottled lemon juice doesn’t have the same brightness.
- You can store the cake at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes well without the glaze.
 Why You’ll Love This Cake
This cake is light, moist, and bursting with summer flavors. The buttermilk keeps it soft and fluffy, while the combination of lemon and strawberries creates the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. It’s ideal for birthdays, brunches, BBQs, or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers bakery-level results every time.Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie