This Strawberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake is pure sunshine in every bite. The tartness of fresh lemon juice perfectly balances the sweet burst of strawberries, all nestled in a moist, fluffy buttermilk crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The finishing touch? A lemon glaze that ties the whole flavor profile together like a bow on a summer gift.
Perfect for brunches, tea parties, summer cookouts, or just a cozy weekend bake, this cake is a stunning centerpiece and a flavor bomb all in one. You can even add whipped cream or serve it chilled for an extra-refreshing dessert on a hot day.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to coat strawberries)
For the Lemonade Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Optional: zest for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Toss strawberries in 2 tablespoons of flour, then gently fold into the batter.
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze. Drizzle over cooled cake and garnish with zest if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
