This Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is a true showstopper—a moist, zesty confection bursting with fresh berry flavor and beams of sunshine-bright citrus. Layers of soft lemon cake sandwich a sweet strawberry filling, all wrapped up in a silky lemon buttercream. If you love desserts that taste like pure summer, this is the cake you’ve been looking for! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, special occasion, or just craving a bakery-worthy treat, the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is guaranteed to make any moment deliciously unforgettable.

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient for this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake matters, building lush layers of flavor, color, and texture. These simple kitchen staples, with just a couple of fresh additions, transform into cake perfection—lemony, buttery, and packed with real berries in every bite.

All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy, fluffy crumb that holds up beautifully to the layers and filling.
Baking powder: Gives lift, making the cakes tender and light.
Baking soda: Works with the lemon juice for extra rise and the softest texture.
Salt: A pinch brings out and balances all those sweet and tangy notes.
Unsalted butter (for cake and buttercream): Delivers rich, creamy flavor and makes the crumb melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cakes and brings out the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness, helping the cakes hold structure.
Lemon zest & lemon juice: These are the secret weapons for a burst of true lemon flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds warmth to every bite.
Buttermilk: Keeps the layers moist and tender—don’t skip it for that classic cake texture!
Fresh strawberries (chopped for cake and diced for filling): Juicy, intensely flavored berries are what make this cake a summery favorite.
Sugar (for filling): Melts into the berries to create a luscious, jeweled filling.
Cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling so it sits perfectly between each cake layer.
Powdered sugar: Blends smoothly into the buttercream, giving it that dreamy, fluffy finish.
Heavy cream: The final touch for silky, spreadable lemon buttercream—just the right consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Set yourself up for cake success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper so your layers slide out effortlessly (and intact, every time).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This quick step ensures an even crumb in your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake and stops any lumps from sneaking into your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl and hand mixer (or stand mixer), beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This stage creates air in your batter, giving those cake layers their irresistible lightness and delicate texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each so your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake stays perfectly tender. Stir in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These bring bright, fresh flavor that makes your cake sing.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. This method keeps the batter smooth and ensures the cake bakes up moist, not dense. Finally, gently fold in those finely chopped strawberries—no overmixing!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely—patience here means flawless layers later.

Step 7: Make the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan, combine diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until it thickens to a glossy, jammy consistency (about 5–7 minutes). Set aside to cool completely—this will keep your layers from slipping during assembly.

Step 8: Whip Up Lemon Buttercream

Beat softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by lemon juice, zest, and just enough heavy cream for a cloud-like, spreadable frosting. This fragrant buttercream is honestly what takes your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake over the top!

Step 9: Assemble & Frost

Place your first cake layer on a serving plate and generously spread with strawberry filling. Top with the next cake, more filling, and the final layer. Coat the top and sides with that luscious lemon buttercream, smoothing it out for a bakery finish. Chill for 30 minutes to let everything set—then serve in beautiful, towering slices.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake

Garnishes

This cake absolutely shines with fresh strawberry halves and thin lemon slices artfully arranged on top. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dusting of powdered sugar gives the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake a truly elegant finish.

Side Dishes

Pair slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or even a handful of mixed fresh berries. Wrap up your summer brunch or party with a tall glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade on the side for a colorful, flavor-packed spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual layered trifles by cutting the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake into cubes and layering with extra buttercream and filling in clear glasses. Or, bake as cupcakes for picnic-perfect treats. Want to wow guests? Serve slices on pastel plates with edible flowers for a garden party vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake tasting fresh, cover leftover slices tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to three days—just bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers (unfrosted) wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to two months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then assemble with fresh filling and buttercream for a shortcut on party day. If you have leftover frosted cake, individual slices can be frozen and savored later—just be sure they’re fully wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

The Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, so let fridge-cold slices warm up for about 30 minutes before serving. If you need to soften a refrigerated slice in a hurry, a brief 10-second zap in the microwave will bring back a bit of that pillowy cake texture—just don’t overdo it or the filling may ooze!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries. Just thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before using, as excess water could affect the cake’s texture and the thickness of the filling.

What’s the secret to super moist cake layers?

The combination of buttermilk and softened butter works wonders here. Alternate the dry ingredients and buttermilk as you mix, and be careful not to overbake—check for doneness at the minimum time listed.

How do I stop the layers and filling from sliding?

The key is patience! Make sure your cake layers and strawberry filling are completely cooled before assembly. If your kitchen is warm, chill the finished cake briefly before serving to keep those layers looking picture-perfect.

Can I make the Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite measure-for-measure gluten-free baking blend. Check that your baking powder and cornstarch are labeled gluten-free as well for a safe twist on this classic.

Is there a dairy-free version of the buttercream?

You can use a plant-based butter substitute and dairy-free cream to whip up a vegan lemon buttercream. It will still turn out creamy, tart, and delicious—just check your powdered sugar to be sure it’s vegan if needed!

Final Thoughts

If you crave a dessert that’s bright, fresh, and sure to bring on smiles, I hope you’ll try this Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake soon. It’s a slice of sunshine in every bite and the perfect way to turn any day into a celebration. Happy baking!