Strawberry Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet spot for fresh, fruity desserts, this Strawberry Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine tender, moist cake layers bursting with the juicy flavor of diced strawberries, all embraced by a luscious strawberry buttercream frosting that tastes like a dreamy summer day. This cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, offering a delightful texture and rich aroma from the fresh fruit and vanilla. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe will fill your kitchen with warmth and your plate with pure happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in creating the tender crumb, rich flavor, and beautiful color of your strawberry cake. Knowing why each item matters will help you appreciate and replicate this recipe with confidence.

• All-purpose flour: The base of our cake, providing structure while keeping it soft and tender.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents work together to give the cake a perfect rise and light texture.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors throughout the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, and when softened, allows for a creamy batter and frosting.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that golden color when baked.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add moisture and richness.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender by adding a slight tang.
• Whole milk: Hydrates the batter and contributes to tenderness.
• Fresh strawberries: Diced to infuse the batter with juicy bursts of fruitiness.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for the smooth, fluffy strawberry buttercream.
• Strawberry puree: Gives the frosting that natural strawberry flavor and lovely pink hue.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting perfectly.

How to Make Strawberry Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans for a non-stick surface and line their bottoms with parchment paper — these steps ensure your cake layers come out flawless and intact.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. This blend of leaveners and seasoning lays the foundation for your cake’s texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process traps air, setting you up for a beautifully airy cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully blend, then stir in the vanilla extract, packing the batter with warmth and depth.

Step 5: Combine Sour Cream and Milk

Mix the sour cream and whole milk together separately — their creamy composition is key to achieving the perfect moistness and tender crumb.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Start and end with the dry components. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen your cake.

Step 7: Fold in Fresh Strawberries

Gently fold in the diced strawberries, taking care not to crush them — these juicy pieces will pop up deliciously in every bite.

Step 8: Bake Your Layers

Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans, smoothing out the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is critical before frosting to avoid melting the buttercream.

Step 10: Prepare the Strawberry Buttercream

Beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until smooth and fluffy — this frosting is where the strawberry magic truly shines.

Step 11: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of strawberry buttercream. Add the second layer on top and cover the whole cake with the remaining frosting. For the final touch, decorate with fresh strawberries if you like.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberry slices and whole small berries make beautiful, natural garnishes that echo the cake’s flavor and add a burst of color. A sprinkling of mint leaves or edible flowers can elevate the presentation for special occasions.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which complements the fruity sweetness and adds a creamy contrast. A light fruit salad on the side can also refresh the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your Strawberry Cake Recipe into individual mini cakes or cupcakes. Layer in a trifle dish with whipped cream and extra strawberries for a stunning dessert centerpiece. Drizzle with a little melted chocolate or crushed toasted almonds for added texture and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover strawberry cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent the buttercream from spoiling. It should remain delicious for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze fully frosted cake or just the layers separately. Wrap tightly in plastic and then foil to protect from freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it a bit warmer, let the slice sit out for 15-20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving to prevent the frosting from melting or texture changes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor in this Strawberry Cake Recipe, frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Is this cake suitable for layering with other fruit flavors?

Absolutely! The base recipe is versatile enough to pair beautifully with flavors like raspberry, blueberry, or even lemon, though the strawberry buttercream specifically highlights the strawberries’ fresh taste.

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will maintain the cake’s moist texture while adding a subtle tang similar to sour cream.

How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking in the batter?

Coating the diced strawberries lightly with flour before folding them into the batter helps suspend them evenly throughout the cake layers.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but keep in mind texture differences. Adding a bit of xanthan gum usually helps mimic the structure gluten provides.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake Recipe is truly a gem that brings joy with every bite. It’s not just a dessert but a celebration of fresh, sweet strawberries combined with classic cake and frosting components that anyone can master. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and share that beautiful, satisfying taste with your friends and family.

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