Strawberry Lemonade Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 8-10 large strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 2-4 large strawberries, chopped

Instructions

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease two 9-inch round baking pans with baking spray.
2. Cake Batter:
   • In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment, place the butter, sugar, and lemon zest. Beat until the mixture turns light and fluffy.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients and set them aside.
   • With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring thorough mixing in between. Add the lemon juice while the mixer is running (the batter may appear curdled, but it’s normal).
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk in portions, mixing after each addition until fully combined and the batter turns light and fluffy.
3. Baking:
   • Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool before removing them from the pans.
4. Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
   • In a large bowl or standing mixer, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
   • Add the milk and chopped strawberries, then mix on high speed until the frosting turns very fluffy and takes on a pale pink color with flecks of strawberry.
5. Assembling:
   • Invert one of the cake rounds onto a cake plate, generously spread frosting, and top with strawberry slices. Repeat with the remaining cake layer and frosting. Frost the sides of the cake.
   • Place the cake in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Serve the cake at room temperature.

Enjoy the delightful Strawberry Lemonade Cake! ????????????