Strawberry Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Cake Recipe is the perfect fusion of fresh strawberries and a moist, fluffy cake base. With its vibrant flavor and stunning appearance, it’s an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience with every bite.

What makes this Strawberry Cake Recipe stand out is its ability to showcase the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. Paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit your preferences, making it a go-to choice for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike.

Ideal for any time of the year, this Strawberry Cake Recipe combines simple ingredients to create a show-stopping dessert. With every layer, you’ll taste the love and care that goes into making this beloved treat.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling and Decorating: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Base Ingredients:

• Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, pureed): Provides natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): Ensures a soft and fluffy cake texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1 3/4 cups): Balances the tartness of the strawberries.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• Large Eggs (4): Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
• Whole Milk (1 cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist.
• Baking Powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise evenly.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Complements the strawberry flavor.

Frosting Ingredients:

• Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates a creamy and tangy frosting base.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds smoothness and richness.
• Powdered Sugar (3 cups): Sweetens the frosting without making it too dense.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
• Fresh Strawberries (for garnish, optional): Adds a decorative and flavorful touch.

1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in Pureed Strawberries and Vanilla: Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

2: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Divide Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
2. Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy.
3. Mix in Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

4: Assemble the Strawberry Cake

1. Level the Cake Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes if needed for an even surface.
2. Frost the Cake: Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
3. Decorate: Garnish with fresh strawberries or pipe decorative frosting designs as desired.

5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Chill (Optional): For best results, refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut into slices and enjoy the irresistible combination of strawberry and cream cheese flavors.

Calorie Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Strawberries: ~50 calories
• Flour: ~300 calories
• Sugar: ~200 calories
• Butter: ~150 calories
• Eggs: ~70 calories
• Milk: ~50 calories
• Frosting: ~300 calories
• Total: ~1120 calories per slice (serves 8-10)

Vibrant Strawberry Flavor

The use of fresh strawberry puree infuses the cake with natural sweetness and a fruity aroma.

Moist and Fluffy Texture

The combination of butter, eggs, and milk creates a perfectly moist and tender crumb.

Creamy Frosting

The cream cheese frosting provides the ideal balance of tanginess and sweetness.

Versatile Decoration

Customize the decoration with fresh strawberries, edible flowers, or sprinkles to suit any occasion.

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, thaw and puree the strawberries before using them in the recipe.
2. How do I store the cake?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
4. Can I freeze the cake layers?
   Yes, wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting.
5. What other frostings can I use?
   Try whipped cream frosting or a light buttercream for a different flavor profile.