Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe
If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances zesty lime and sweet strawberry flavors in a light, fluffy cake, you’re going to adore this Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe. This delightful treat captures the essence of summer with vibrant colors and a fresh, tangy taste that feels like a sip of refreshing limeade with a fruity strawberry twist. The moist cake layers infused with real strawberry puree and lime zest, topped with a luscious strawberry-lime frosting, make every bite an irresistible celebration for your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a seasonal delight, this Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake this cake is a breeze thanks to a simple lineup of ingredients that each play a starring role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and look. From fresh strawberries to bright lime zest, every element works together to bring out the cake’s refreshing personality.
- White cake mix: Provides a light, tender crumb and a reliable base for all the fruity goodness.
- Strawberry puree: Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and juicy flavor from fresh strawberries.
- Water: Helps blend the batter for perfect consistency without weighing it down.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Eggs: Essential for structure and richness in the cake layers.
- Lime zest: Gives a bright, aromatic citrus note that wakes up the entire cake.
- Lime juice: Provides tangy zing, complementing the strawberry’s sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (for frosting): Creates a creamy, smooth texture in the frosting with subtle richness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting while adding silkiness.
- Additional strawberry puree (for frosting): Keeps the frosting fresh and fruity with a natural pink hue.
- Optional garnishes: Sliced strawberries, lime wedges, or extra zest make for fun and pretty finishing touches.
How to Make Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure your cake layers come out perfectly and don’t stick.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, strawberry puree, water, vegetable oil, eggs, lime zest, and lime juice. Using a mixer on medium speed, beat all the ingredients for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and evenly blended. This step is key to a beautifully tender cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, whip together the unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in the strawberry puree, lime juice, and lime zest. Beat the frosting until it becomes fluffy and spreadable — this vibrant frosting will tie all the delightful flavors together.
Step 5: Assemble and Frost
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer over it. Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. For a final special touch, garnish with sliced strawberries, lime wedges, or extra lime zest. Chill the cake briefly to make slicing cleaner and easier.
How to Serve Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sliced strawberries and lime wedges not only add a pop of color but also boost the cake’s natural flavors. A sprinkle of lime zest brightens the presentation and adds a subtle citrus fragrance that guests will love.
Side Dishes
Serve this cake alongside a light summer salad or fresh fruit platter to keep the meal refreshing and balanced. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can also make a lovely companion for richer indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider layering individual cakes in mini mason jars or turning the cake into cupcakes for easy sharing at parties. You can drizzle a simple lime glaze on top for extra shine or add edible flowers for an elegant finish that wows every eye.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, keep your Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe covered and refrigerated. Proper storage will keep it fresh and moist for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy every slice at its best.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight bag or container. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge and frost as usual.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. Let any refrigerated slices sit out for about 20 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors fully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before blending to avoid thinning the batter or frosting.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
You can swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free version that suits your needs, but check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well to keep your Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe safe for gluten sensitivities.
How do I get a more intense strawberry flavor in the cake?
Using fresh, ripe strawberries for the puree will give you the best flavor. Additionally, brushing the cake layers with a bit of extra lime juice before frosting can enhance the fruity brightness.
Can I make the frosting without butter?
Butter is key for the creamy texture and flavor, but you can substitute with a non-dairy spread that holds up well if dairy is a concern. Just be mindful that it may slightly change the taste and consistency.
What’s the best way to slice this cake neatly?
After chilling the frosted cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This simple trick ensures clean, beautiful slices every time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the harmony of strawberries and lime in this Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe. It’s a refreshing and crowd-pleasing way to celebrate any occasion or simply brighten your day with a homemade dessert. Give it a try, and I promise this cake will become one of your go-to favorites whenever you want a taste of summer’s sweetest delights.
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Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Limeade Cake recipe combines the fresh, tangy flavors of strawberry and lime into a moist, fluffy white cake layered with a creamy strawberry-lime frosting. Perfect for summer gatherings or any celebration, this vibrant dessert is easy to prepare and beautifully decorated with fresh strawberries and lime zest.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup strawberry puree (about 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries blended)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Optional Garnish
- Sliced strawberries
- Lime wedges or zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, strawberry puree, water, vegetable oil, eggs, lime zest, and lime juice. Beat with a mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Mix in the strawberry puree, lime juice, and lime zest, then beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly.
- Decorate and Chill: Garnish the cake with fresh strawberry slices and lime zest or wedges if desired. Chill the cake slightly before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed frozen strawberries to make the strawberry puree for best flavor.
- For a more vibrant lime flavor, brush the cake layers with extra lime juice before applying the frosting.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
