Strawberry Cake Recipe

Imagine a cake that is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful afternoon treat, this Strawberry Cake is a showstopper. Easy to make yet impressively delicious, this cake will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Read on to discover how to make this scrumptious dessert!

What is Strawberry Cake?

Strawberry Cake is a classic dessert that incorporates fresh strawberries into both the batter and the frosting, creating a moist, flavorful cake. This cake is often layered with a creamy strawberry-infused frosting, making it a beautiful and delicious choice for any occasion. The natural sweetness and vibrant color of the strawberries make this cake as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Ingredients List for Strawberry Cake

For the Cake:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional, for consistency)

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut milk, and dairy-free sour cream.
• Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener of your choice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Strawberry Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Strawberries: Puree the fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. Measure out 1 cup of the strawberry puree for the cake batter.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Gently fold in the strawberry puree.
6. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
8. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
9. Decorate and Serve: Decorate the cake with fresh strawberry slices, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Strawberry Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
• Not Pureeing the Strawberries Thoroughly: Ensure the strawberries are pureed smoothly to avoid chunks in the batter and frosting.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

This cake is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve on dessert plates. For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Strawberry Cake

For an eye-catching presentation, garnish the cake with fresh strawberries and mint leaves. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top for a simple yet elegant look. Serving the cake on a decorative cake stand adds a touch of sophistication.

Strawberry Cake Recipe Tips

• Freshness is Key: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and color.
• Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before using.
• Layer Evenly: Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers for a more professional-looking cake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.

How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Frost the cake before serving.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Certainly! Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting would also pair well with this strawberry cake.

How can I make a layered cake with more than two layers?

Double the recipe and divide the batter evenly among four 9-inch round cake pans. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fresh strawberries in every bite. With its moist cake layers and creamy strawberry frosting, it's a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness that’s bursting with flavor!

Print