Creating a delicious Strawberry Lemon Cake is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries until evenly distributed.
8. Divide the Batter: Pour the batter equally into the prepared cake pans.
9. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the Cakes: Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 20 minutes. Then, transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
12. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread frosting on top, then add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
13. Garnish: Decorate the top with fresh strawberries for an appealing finish.

By following these steps, you’ll create a stunning Strawberry Lemon Cake that’s not only delicious but also visually striking!