Pink Lemonade Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as cheerful as a sunny day, this Pink Lemonade Cake is just the ticket! With its bright flavors and stunning pink hue, it’s a cake that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a spring gathering, or just a special treat for yourself, this cake will surely impress. The soft layers of lemony goodness paired with sweet raspberry jam make every bite a delightful experience!

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Plus, who can resist the charming pink frosting? Let’s dive into why this Pink Lemonade Cake is sure to be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Refreshing: The combination of lemon and raspberry creates a flavor explosion that’s both tangy and sweet.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can create this showstopper.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, picnics, or just because—this cake fits right in at any celebration.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the layers in advance and frost them later for stress-free entertaining.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant garnishes make it a visual delight on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Pink Lemonade Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 2 cups (300g) cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon bicarb soda
• 185g (6oz) caster or superfine sugar
• 230g (8oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (250ml) buttermilk
• Zest of 1 large lemon

For the Frosting

• 180g (6oz) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 600g (21oz) icing sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Pink food coloring (use sparingly)
• 1 teaspoon citric acid

For the Filling & Garnish

• 100g (3.5oz) raspberry jam
• 3 frozen raspberries (crushed)
• ½ lemon, cut into thin slices

Variations

One of the best things about this Pink Lemonade Cake is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste.

• Add Fresh Berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or strawberries for an extra fruity kick.
• Change Up the Frosting: Swap the pink lemonade frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake flour to adapt this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lavender extract or mint for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.

How to Make Pink Lemonade Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder, and bicarb soda. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a light cake texture. Add in your eggs one at a time, making sure each is well blended before adding the next.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in your buttermilk and lemon zest. The buttermilk adds moisture while enhancing that lovely tangy flavor we adore in our Pink Lemonade Cake. Gradually add your dry ingredients to this mixture until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake!

Step 4: Bake!

Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While your cakes are cooling down, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! Beat together room temperature butter with icing sugar until smooth. Then add fresh lemon juice and pink food coloring until you reach your desired hue. Remember to taste as you go; we want it perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are completely cool, spread raspberry jam on top of one layer before placing the second layer on top. Now generously frost the entire cake with your pink lemonade frosting! Decorate with crushed raspberries and lemon slices for an elegant touch.

And there you have it—your very own Pink Lemonade Cake ready to wow everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pink Lemonade Cake

Baking can be a joyful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to ensure your Pink Lemonade Cake turns out perfectly!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. This prevents potential discrepancies in texture and taste.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smoother batter and assists in achieving that light, fluffy cake texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the airy layers you want.

• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary significantly, so checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time ensures you don’t overbake.

• Cool Layers Properly: Allow the cake layers to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent breakage and ensures even cooling.

How to Serve Pink Lemonade Cake

Serving your Pink Lemonade Cake is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some delightful ideas to make your dessert shine on any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh Raspberries: Scatter fresh raspberries on top of the frosting for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle some lemon zest over the frosting for an aromatic touch that enhances the lemony goodness of the cake.
• Edible Flowers: Consider adding edible flowers like pansies or violets around the base of the cake for an elegant, spring-inspired look.

Side Dishes

• Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing frozen treat complements the cake’s flavors beautifully and adds a cooling effect that’s perfect for warm days.
• Berry Compote: A simple mix of cooked berries creates a luscious sauce that pairs wonderfully with each slice, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Mint Tea: Serve slices alongside a glass of chilled mint tea. The herbal notes will balance the sweetness while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang that works well with the cake’s sweetness, making it feel more indulgent yet balanced.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pink Lemonade Cake is not only a delightful treat for special occasions but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store, freeze, or reheat it to enjoy at your convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• To enjoy a slice warm, place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious Pink Lemonade Cake!

Can I make this Pink Lemonade Cake without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How can I achieve the perfect pink color for my Pink Lemonade Cake?

To get the vibrant pink color, start by adding just a few drops of pink food coloring to your frosting. Mix well and adjust until you reach your desired shade. Remember, a little goes a long way!

What’s the best way to decorate my Pink Lemonade Cake?

For decoration, consider adding fresh raspberries and lemon slices on top. A sprinkle of edible glitter can add an extra touch of elegance!

Can I use other fruit jams instead of raspberry jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like strawberry or blueberry to give your Pink Lemonade Cake a different flavor twist.

How many servings does this Pink Lemonade Cake yield?

This recipe yields two 6-inch layers of cake which serve approximately 8-10 people, making it perfect for gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this beautiful Pink Lemonade Cake! Its sweet-tangy flavor combination and stunning presentation make it truly special. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself, this cake will surely brighten your day. Enjoy every slice and don’t forget to share your experiences—happy baking!