Description
This Strawberry Limeade Cake combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lime for a refreshing and moist dessert. Featuring a strawberry cake base enhanced with lime zest and juice, and topped with a creamy limeade frosting, this cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a bright, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped or pureed
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for consistency)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: a tablespoon of milk (to thin frosting if needed)
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add Lime and Strawberries: Fold in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and finely chopped or pureed strawberries gently into the batter to ensure even distribution without deflating the mixture.
- Divide Batter and Bake: Pour the batter evenly between two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Limeade Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy. Stir in fresh lime juice, lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Frost the entire cake evenly with remaining frosting.
- Garnish and Serve: Decorate the cake with fresh strawberry slices and extra lime zest if desired. Slice and serve to enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors.
Notes
- For a smoother cake texture, puree the fresh strawberries before adding to the batter.
- Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in frosting to reach your preferred sweetness and thickness.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.
- This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
