Bright, zesty, and irresistibly sweet, the Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert to elevate any celebration. Imagine biting into a moist, tender cake infused with fresh strawberry puree and zesty lime, then topped with a creamy strawberry-lime frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a summer party, a casual gathering, or a festive occasion, this cake promises a balance of tangy freshness and sweet indulgence.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Not only is this cake a visual treat, but it also bursts with flavor that will make your taste buds dance. With easy-to-follow steps, expert tips, and variations included, you’ll master this Strawberry Limeade Cake in your own kitchen without stress.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe
Refreshing Flavor: Combines sweet strawberries with tangy lime for a balanced taste.
Moist and Tender Texture: The strawberry puree keeps the cake soft and fluffy.
Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
Customizable Frosting: Adjust sweetness or add a tangy glaze for extra flair.
Visually Stunning: Perfect for celebrations, layered presentations, or sheet cakes.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Can be made as cupcakes, bundt cakes, or layered desserts.
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
How to Make Strawberry Limeade Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. A well-prepared pan ensures even baking and clean removal.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, strawberry puree, water, oil, eggs, lime zest, and lime juice. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. This ensures the cake is evenly aerated, giving a light texture.
Step 3: Bake
Divide batter evenly between pans and bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Allow cakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents frosting from melting upon contact.
Step 5: Prepare Frosting
Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then incorporate strawberry puree, lime juice, and zest. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble
Frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides evenly. Add sliced strawberries and lime zest for a visual and flavor boost. Chill slightly before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Limeade Cake
How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?
Always use room-temperature eggs and oil. Beat only until combined—overmixing can toughen the cake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers 1–2 days in advance, wrap tightly, and store at room temperature. Frost on the day of serving.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely, thaw and drain excess liquid. Frozen strawberries may slightly alter color but retain flavor.
How do I keep the frosting smooth?
Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. If too thick, add 1 tsp of milk or strawberry puree at a time.
Best Ways to Serve
Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Slice for picnic-friendly portions in a summer lunchbox.
Use as a layered celebration cake with matching fruit garnishes.
Nutrition (per slice, 1/12 of cake)
Calories: 320
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Vitamin C: 25% DV
Storage & Leftovers
Room Temperature: 2 days in an airtight container.
Refrigerator: 5 days wrapped or in a cake carrier.
Freezer: Up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge before serving.
Tip: Frosting slightly thickens when chilled; bring to room temperature for easy slicing.
FAQs About Strawberry Limeade Cake
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, substitute cake mix with a gluten-free white cake mix. Adjust baking time slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for cupcakes?
Definitely! Bake in a 12-cup muffin tin for 18–20 minutes. Frost after cooling.
How can I intensify the lime flavor?
Add 1/2 teaspoon extra lime zest to both the batter and frosting for a stronger citrus aroma.
Can I use a different frosting?
Cream cheese frosting pairs well for a tangier profile. Buttercream keeps it sweet and airy.
Variations
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter.
Layered Celebration Cake: Triple layers with strawberry slices between each layer.
Citrus Twist: Add lemon zest for a strawberry-lime-lemon combo.
Bundt Cake: Use the same batter in a bundt pan; drizzle with glaze.
Conclusion
Mastering this Strawberry Limeade Cake Recipe brings a refreshing, flavorful, and visually stunning dessert to your table. From casual summer picnics to elegant celebrations, this cake impresses both in taste and presentation. Unlock the full potential of your dessert game and delight friends and family with every zesty bite!