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### 🧁 **Instructions**
1. **Preheat** oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
2. **Whisk** dry ingredients together: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, **cream butter and sugar** until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in **eggs**, one at a time, followed by lemon zest, juice, and vanilla.
5. **Alternate adding** dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter between pans and **bake for 25–28 minutes**, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
7. Meanwhile, **macerate the strawberries** by tossing them with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to release their juices.
8. For the frosting, **beat butter** until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla. Whip until light and fluffy.
9. **Assemble the cake**: Layer with strawberries (drained, if juicy) between the cakes, and frost generously. Decorate with fresh berries or lemon slices.
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### 🌸 Why This Cake is Perfect for Summer Birthdays:
* Light, citrusy flavor that’s not too heavy
* Fresh strawberries give it a sweet-tart burst
* Gorgeous without needing fussy decoration
* It *feels* like sunshine — in both taste and vibe
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### Final Thoughts
Making this cake for my daughter’s birthday was a win all around. It’s bright, celebratory, and packed with real fruit flavor. **Yay for summer birthdays** — and for recipes that make them even more memorable.
If you’re looking for a go-to summer cake, this is it.
Bake it for someone you love — or just because the day is warm and the berries are sweet. 🍓🍋🎉
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Want a version of this as cupcakes or with a dairy-free twist? Just say the word!
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