Pink Lemonade Cake

This Pink Lemonade Cake is a delightful dessert bursting with fresh, tangy lemon flavor and sweet raspberry jam. Perfect for any celebration, this stunning cake features soft layers of lemon cake, vibrant pink lemonade buttercream frosting, and elegant raspberry and lemon garnishes. Its bright flavors and beautiful presentation make it a showstopper that will impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon and raspberry jam creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm days.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, spring parties, or any festive gathering, this cake fits right in at any event.
• Stunning Presentation: With its lovely pink frosting and elegant garnishes, it stands out on the dessert table.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and softened butter, each slice is incredibly moist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 round 6-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your batter has a light and fluffy texture by thoroughly combining ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate every bit of batter into your cake mix.

Ingredients

To create the delicious Pink Lemonade Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake Layers:

• 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 Pink Lemonade Buttercream:

• 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 Garnishing:

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

How to Make Pink Lemonade Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans

Grease two 6-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. Cake flour
2. Baking powder
3. Bicarb soda

Whisk them together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Caster sugar

Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Buttermilk

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then gradually mix in the buttermilk and lemon zest until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Buttercream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Icing sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat until creamy. Add fresh lemon juice, pink food coloring, and citric acid as desired until you reach your preferred consistency.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread raspberry jam over it before adding frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of that and frost the top and sides of your cake.

Step 11: Garnish

Finish with crushed raspberries and thin slices of lemon for decoration.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Pink Lemonade Cake! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Pink Lemonade Cake

This Pink Lemonade Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. When serving this vibrant dessert, consider these delightful suggestions that enhance its appeal.

For Celebratory Occasions

• Birthday Parties: The bright colors and refreshing flavors make it a perfect birthday cake that will impress guests of all ages.
• Spring Gatherings: Serve it at picnics or spring brunches for a cheerful touch to your spread.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the tangy flavors of the cake perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, pair it with lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus notes.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cupcakes: Include mini pink lemonade cupcakes alongside to offer variety in size and presentation.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers can complement the cake’s flavors while adding color and freshness.

How to Perfect Pink Lemonade Cake

Creating the ultimate Pink Lemonade Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Bold Flavoring: Add more lemon zest or juice to intensify the lemon flavor without overpowering sweetness.
• Proper Mixing: Ensure your butter and sugar are creamed well for a light and airy cake texture.
• Temperature Check: Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature for better emulsification.
• Sifting Flour: Sift the cake flour before measuring to ensure accurate amounts, resulting in a lighter crumb.

Best Side Dishes for Pink Lemonade Cake

Complement your Pink Lemonade Cake with these delicious side dishes that enhance its delightful flavors and presentation.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and balance to each slice of cake.
2. Lemon Meringue Pie: The citrus theme continues with this classic pie, offering contrasting textures and flavors.
3. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy macaroons provide a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the tangy cake.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Rich cheesecake bites add a creamy element that complements the lightness of the cake.
5. Pistachio Cookies: Nutty pistachio cookies bring crunch and depth, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
6. Chilled Herbal Tea: Offer refreshing herbal tea options like mint or chamomile to cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking this Pink Lemonade Cake can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure perfect results.

• Wrong Flour Type: Using all-purpose flour instead of cake flour can lead to a denser cake. Stick to cake flour for a light and fluffy texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cake. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect the mixing process, leading to uneven batter. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined to keep it tender.
• Skipping the Zest: Omitting lemon zest means missing out on essential flavor. Always include zest for that bright lemony taste.
• Insufficient Cooling Time: Cutting the cake before it’s completely cool can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool fully on a wire rack before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pink Lemonade Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pink Lemonade Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pink Lemonade Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm each slice for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pink Lemonade Cake.

What makes Pink Lemonade Cake special?

This delightful dessert combines tangy lemon flavor with sweet raspberry jam, making it unique and refreshing.

Can I customize my Pink Lemonade Cake?

Absolutely! Try adding different fruit flavors or using different colorings to match your party theme.

How long does Pink Lemonade Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What is the best way to serve Pink Lemonade Cake?

This cake is best served chilled with fresh fruit garnishes. It’s perfect for parties and celebrations!

Final Thoughts

The Pink Lemonade Cake is not only visually stunning but also offers a burst of citrus flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different fruits or colors to make it your own. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!