Lemon Cake With Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Are you looking for a refreshing and flavorful dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than a lemon cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting! This delicious dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays to a simple weeknight treat. In this article, we'll dive into the details of how to make this delectable dessert, including the ingredients, baking instructions, and tips for perfecting your frosting. So, grab your apron and let's get baking!
Ingredients for the Lemon Cake:
Before we can get started on the frosting, we need to make the cake! Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the buttermilk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Ingredients for the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
Now for the best part - the frosting! Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and smooth.
Tips for Perfecting Your Frosting:
Now that you have your ingredients, here are some tips for making the perfect frosting:
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing them together. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the puree. Frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, but they may not give the frosting the same bright flavor.
- When adding the powdered sugar, it's important to do so gradually. This will prevent clumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it's too thick, add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
- Once your cake is frosted, you can add additional sliced strawberries or lemon zest to the top for a decorative touch.
Conclusion
There you have it - a delicious and refreshing lemon cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting! With its bright, citrusy flavor and creamy frosting, this dessert is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want a sweet treat, this cake is a perfect choice. So, grab your ingredients and get baking!