Strawberry Lemonade Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Sweet, tangy, and absolutely irresistible!
There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and lemons—bright, fruity, and fresh. This Strawberry Lemonade Cake takes that classic combo and turns it into a beautifully moist dessert topped with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. It’s the kind of cake that brings sunshine to your table, perfect for birthdays, brunches, or a summer afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup lemon juice (fresh is best!)
- 1 cup diced strawberries (fresh or frozen)
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Let’s Bake!
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix and strawberry gelatin. Add the eggs, oil, water, and lemon juice. Beat until smooth, then gently fold in the diced strawberries.
Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. When a toothpick comes out clean, they’re ready. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, whip up that dreamy frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar, a cup at a time. Then stir in the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and bright!
Step 3: Assemble with Love
Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then gently add the second layer. Frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting—don’t be shy!
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or even a swirl of strawberry puree for a little extra flair. Slice, serve, and enjoy every tangy, sweet bite.
Tips & Twists
- Want a stronger strawberry punch? Add a spoonful of strawberry puree to your frosting.
- Try layering in some chopped strawberries between the cakes for a fun fruity surprise.
- Pair this cake with a glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade for the ultimate summer treat.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just in the mood for something bright and flavorful, this Strawberry Lemonade Cake is a must-try. Sweet, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavors—it’s sunshine in cake form.
