Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake with Raspberry Swirl Buttercream

Recipe Introduction

Fancy baking something that screams "party time" or "afternoon tea"? Ever wondered how to bring a bit of sunshine to your kitchen? This layer cake recipe is just the ticket.

It's my take on a classic, and it's bursting with flavour.

Sunshine in a Cake: Quick Hook

Seriously, who doesn't love a good layer cake recipe ? This one's a bit special. It's got a lovely citrus cake recipe vibe going on, like a blueberry lemon cake recipe only with a bit more oomph.

That raspberry swirl buttercream? Oh my gosh, it's divine!

Brief Overview: Origin and Inspiration

Think Victoria sponge cake variations , but with a zesty twist. This cake is inspired by the classic Victoria sponge.

It’s not exactly a blueberry lemon cake dairy-free option, but it tastes amazing!. It is a medium difficulty bake and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes of active prep and cooking.

This recipe makes about 10-12 slices.

Main Benefits: Why You'll Love This

This birthday cake recipe homemade is guaranteed to wow. It's got that feel good factor and will fill your house with citrus scent.

The lemon orange cake recipe combo is super refreshing. The raspberry buttercream takes it to a whole new level.

Ready to get baking? First, let's talk ingredients. You'll need butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and all that jazz.

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Sunshine Cake

Ready to bake? Let's chat about what you'll need to make this amazing Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake . This easy layer cake recipe will become your go-to.

Honestly, I love this cake so much! It's just so good. It's a birthday cake recipe homemade to impress!

Main Cake Ingredients

• 225g (8 oz, 1 cup) unsalted butter, softened. Make sure it's properly soft.
• 225g (8 oz, 1 1/4 cups) caster sugar. Granulated works too!
• 4 large eggs.
• 225g (8 oz, 1 3/4 cups) self raising flour. Or plain with baking powder.
• 1 tsp baking powder, if using plain flour.
• A pinch of salt.
• Zest of 1 lemon. Go for unwaxed, yeah?
• Zest of 1 orange.
• 2 tbsp milk.

For the butter, quality makes a big difference. Go for proper butter. You know, the kind your nan used. And for the citrus cake recipe , fresh zest is key!.

Consider that this Blueberry Lemon Cake Recipe and Lemon Orange Cake Recipe use similar steps.

Raspberry Buttercream Fixings

• 250g (9 oz, 1 cup + 1 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened. Again, soft!
• 500g (1 lb 1 oz, 4 cups) icing sugar, sifted. Don't skip the sifting!
• 2-3 tbsp milk or cream.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract.
• 150g (5.2 oz, 0.6 cups) fresh or frozen raspberries. Thawed and pureed.

This raspberry buttercream recipe is lush. Fresh raspberries are best. But frozen work in a pinch. This buttercream also fits perfectly well as layer cake frosting ideas .

Spice and Flavour Notes

Lemon and orange zest are essential . They're your flavor heroes. If you fancy something extra , a dash of lemon or orange extract is great.

Extracts enhance the overall taste of the layer cake recipe . We could also try a Blueberry Lemon Cake dairy-free , just swapping the butter! You can also swap the raspberries with blueberries in Gf Lemon Blueberry Cake .

Gear You'll Actually Need

• 2 8 inch round cake tins.
• Parchment paper. Linings are crucial.
• Electric mixer. Hand or stand mixer.
• Rubber spatula.
• Wire rack.
• Offset spatula. For frosting like a pro.

You don't need fancy gear for this. A bowl and wooden spoon works if you’re feeling strong. Honestly, this recipe is more about the love you put in, than the equipment! There are endless Victoria sponge cake variations ! Have fun!

Cracking the Code: The Baking Method for Our Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake Recipe

Right, let's chat about the baking method for our Sunshine Citrus layer cake recipe . It's all about getting that light, fluffy crumb and even bake.

No one wants a sad, dense cake, right?

Prep Steps: The Essential Bit Before the Bake

First things first, mise en place , darling. It's French for "everything in its place," and trust me, it's a lifesaver.

Get your 225g (8 oz) butter softened, 225g (8 oz) sugar measured, eggs ready, and zest those citrus fruits. Lining your 8 inch tins with parchment paper? Absolutely essential.

Stops the cake sticking. I use circles cut to fit in the bottom and long strips for the sides.

For time saving, measure all dry ingredients into one bowl. It cuts down on washing up later. Remember, preheat that oven to 180° C ( 350° F) .

Safety first! Oven gloves at the ready.

Let's Bake: step-by-step to Citrusy Perfection

1. Cream together the softened butter and 225g (8 oz) sugar until light and fluffy. This takes a good 3- 5 minutes . Seriously, don't rush it.
2. Beat in 4 large eggs , one at a time. Make sure each one is fully combined before adding the next.
3. Stir in the lemon and orange zest. Smells amazing, doesn't it? This is where the citrus cake recipe starts to sing.
4. Gradually add the 225g (8 oz) self raising flour and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25- 30 minutes . A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Cool in the tins for 10 minutes , then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Layer Cake Royalty

Want to elevate your easy layer cake recipe ? Try this: level the cooled cakes with a serrated knife for even layers. It makes all the difference when frosting.

Common mistake? Overbaking. A dry cake is a sad cake. Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. make-ahead? You can bake the cakes a day in advance.

Wrap them tightly in cling film and store at room temperature. This gives you more time for the layer cake frosting ideas stage.

You can also experiment with the Lemon orange cake recipe .

You know, this recipe reminds me of my Nan. She always made a Victoria Sponge. This Sunshine Citrus Cake is my little twist on her classic.

Hope you love it as much as I do. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the Blueberry Lemon Cake Recipe .

Recipe Notes for Your Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake Recipe

Right, so you're about to tackle this gorgeous Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake. Let's run through a few bits and bobs to make sure it's a total triumph.

This isn't just any easy layer cake recipe , it's your easy layer cake recipe. It also makes for a beautiful birthday cake recipe homemade .

I always say, a bit of preparation goes a long way, you know?

Serving Suggestions: Make it Look the Bee's Knees

Honestly, presentation is half the battle. Picture this: slices of this beauty plated up with a few fresh raspberries scattered around.

A dollop of whipped cream never hurts either. If you want to feel a bit fancy, edible flowers always look smashing.

As for drinks, you can't go wrong with a good cuppa. Or, if you are feeling celebratory, a glass of bubbly Prosecco would be spot on.

Think of it as a slightly posh picnic, indoors!

Storage Tips: Keep That Cake Fresh

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers (I never do!), just pop it in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for about 3 days.

The raspberry buttercream is pretty stable. I wouldn't recommend freezing this one. The texture might change slightly after defrosting. Plus, who wants to wait for cake?

If you want to pre-make it and spread some buttercream, make sure it has a stable buttercream that doesn't have too much liquid content.

When reheating, just let it come to room temperature. Then it will be perfect.

Variations: Mix it Up!

Fancy a change? Swap the raspberries in the buttercream for strawberries. If you're after a blueberry lemon cake recipe then chuck a handful of blueberries into the cake batter.

It also goes nicely with lemon orange cake recipe or what about the blueberry lemon cake dairy-free route by subbing out the butter for a plant based alternative? I've also heard of a Gf lemon blueberry cake but I'm not sure how to do that sorry.

For autumn, try using clementines instead of oranges. Also for frosting, you can try some amazing layer cake frosting ideas .

Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of What You Fancy

Okay, so let's be real, this is cake. It's not exactly health food. But hey, a little bit of what you fancy does you good! It's packed with energy.

That's because it's got around 550-650 calories per slice. There's also some protein, but the main focus is on carbs and sugar.

This makes it a proper treat!

Right, you've got all the insider info. Go on then, get baking! This Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake is going to be a showstopper.

And don't forget, even if it doesn't look perfect, it'll still taste blooming amazing. You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

My layer cake recipe always ends up dry. What am I doing wrong?

A dry cake is a common baking woe, a bit like soggy bottoms on Bake Off! Often, it's due to overbaking, so try reducing the baking time by a few minutes. Also, ensure you're measuring your flour accurately spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping, and level it off.

Too much flour can lead to a dry result. You can also add a tablespoon or two of oil to the batter for a moister crumb.

Can I make this layer cake recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Like a good Sunday roast, some components are better made in advance. You can bake the cake layers a day or two ahead of time, wrap them tightly in cling film (plastic wrap), and store them at room temperature or in the freezer for longer storage.

The buttercream can also be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge; just bring it to room temperature and re-whip it before using. Just avoid assembling the cake too far in advance, as the buttercream can dry out in the fridge.

My buttercream is too runny! How can I fix it?

Runny buttercream is a baker's nightmare, but easily fixed. Usually, it means the butter is too warm. Pop the bowl of buttercream into the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up the butter, then re-whip it.

If it's still too runny, add a tablespoon or two of sifted icing sugar (powdered sugar) at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too stiff, add a splash of milk or cream.

I don't have raspberries. What other fruit can I use for the swirl in this layer cake recipe?

Don't fret; fruit is quite versatile! Strawberries, blueberries, or even blackberries would all work beautifully. You could also use a fruit preserve or jam (like strawberry or blackcurrant) stirred into the buttercream.

If using jam, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, as jams are generally sweeter than fresh fruit purees. Just remember to adjust the amount to taste based on the sweetness and tartness of the fruit you choose.

How do I store leftover Sunshine Citrus Layer Cake?

To keep your masterpiece fresh, store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If your kitchen is warm, store it in the fridge instead. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in cling film and then foil for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Is there a way to make this layer cake recipe healthier? What about gluten-free?

You can reduce the sugar content slightly without significantly affecting the texture. Consider replacing some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat. For a gluten-free version, use a good quality gluten-free flour blend (one that includes xanthan gum) and follow the recipe as written.

Note: gluten-free cakes can sometimes be a bit drier, so keep a close eye on the baking time.