Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake

Name: Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 large eggs; Zest of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup lemon juice; Fresh strawberries for decoration

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

I love making this Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake because it perfectly captures the essence of summer with its vibrant flavors. The combination of tangy lemonade and sweet strawberries creates a refreshing treat that's both moist and delightful. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I appreciate how easy this cake is to whip up. It’s the ideal dessert for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying with friends on a sunny day. You won't believe how quickly it disappears at gatherings!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:43:27.465Z

When I first made this Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake, I was delighted with how the flavors melded together. The tartness of the lemonade enhances the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite a burst of flavor. I found that letting the cake cool completely before frosting allows for the layers to absorb all the delicious juices, making it even more moist and flavorful.

After some trial and error, I discovered that using fresh strawberries instead of frozen gives the cake a lovely texture. The vibrant pink hue is a feast for the eyes, and it pairs beautifully with a glass of lemonade. Trust me, this cake is a showstopper!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, fruity flavors that are perfect for summertime
Moist cake that stays fresh for days
Eye-catching presentation for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries in this Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake is key to achieving its vibrant flavor profile. Fresh berries not only enhance the cake's sweetness and tanginess but also contribute to its moist texture. For the best results, choose ripe strawberries that are deep red and slightly fragrant; they will provide a juicier puree that infuses the cake with natural sweetness. If you need to substitute, frozen strawberries can be used, but ensure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

The lemon zest is another critical component that amplifies the citrus flavor. Always opt for organic lemons if possible, as their peels are free from synthetic pesticides. When zesting, be sure to capture only the colorful outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This zest not only brightens the cake's flavor but also adds a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking. If you’re short on lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh zest offers a more pronounced flavor.

Techniques for Perfectly Layered Cakes

Achieving even layers is crucial for both appearance and texture. Make sure to use a kitchen scale to measure your batter for consistency between the two cake pans. If you don’t have a scale, fill each pan to the same height (roughly two-thirds full) to allow for even rising. A good tip is to tap the filled pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that might be trapped in the batter, ensuring a lighter cake.

When frosting the cake, let both layers cool completely on a wire rack to avoid melting the buttercream. A crumb coat, or a thin layer of frosting applied to seal in any loose crumbs, can help you achieve a professional-looking finish. Chill the crumb-coated cake for about 30 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting. This technique will make it easier to achieve sharp edges and a smooth surface, elevating the overall presentation.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup lemon juice
Fresh strawberries for decoration

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk, strawberry puree, and lemon zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, blending just until combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Completely cool the cakes before frosting with lemon-flavored buttercream.

Decorate

Top the frosted cake with fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, you can add a bit of lemon zest into the frosting for more flavor. Also, consider refrigerating the cake after frosting it for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld even better.

Storage Tips

To keep your Pisces Strawberry Lemonade Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're looking to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its lifespan to one week. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving to restore its buttery texture and flavor.

If you need to freeze the cake, slice it into individual servings first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cake can last up to three months. To defrost, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This way, you can enjoy a taste of summer any time of year!

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the moist cake and adds an extra layer of indulgence. For a touch of decoration, sprinkle some lemon zest on top of the whipped cream for an eye-catching and flavorful addition.

If you’re serving this cake at a gathering, consider complementing it with a refreshing pitcher of homemade lemonade. The lemonade will enhance the cake's flavors and keep your guests feeling cool and satisfied during those warmer summer months. Garnish your drinks with fresh strawberries and lemon slices to create a cohesive theme that ties the dessert and beverage together beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly.

→ How can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk and add a teaspoon of vinegar to achieve the same tangy flavor.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze them. Just let them thaw before frosting.