Strawberry Cake

If you’re looking for a cake that can brighten up any occasion, let me introduce you to my favorite Strawberry Cake! This delightful dessert is not only soft and fluffy but also bursting with real strawberry flavor. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for everything from family gatherings to cozy weeknight treats. Trust me, once you serve this cake, it will disappear faster than you can say “strawberry bliss!”

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it captures the essence of summer with fresh strawberries. It’s so easy to make, and the creamy strawberry buttercream on top just takes it to another level. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy for every celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Fresh: The use of real strawberries means every slice is packed with fruity goodness.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good cake, and this Strawberry Cake is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and frost it later; it holds up well for a few days!
• Gorgeous Presentation: Its vibrant color makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather them up, and let’s get baking!

For the Cake

• 1½ pounds fresh strawberries (to be pureed)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup milk (room temperature)
• 1½ cups strawberry puree (from above)

For the Buttercream

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup strawberry puree (from above)

Variations

The beauty of this Strawberry Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with the flavors or presentation:

• Add Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest in the batter gives a refreshing twist.
• Swap the Frosting: Try a whipped coconut cream for a lighter topping.
• Mix in Other Berries: Incorporate raspberries or blueberries alongside strawberries for a mixed berry cake.
• Create Layers: Bake in three pans instead of two for more layers—more frosting equals more fun!

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as you want your cakes to bake evenly. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans so that they release easily once baked.

Step 2: Puree the Strawberries

Puree the strawberries in a blender until smooth. You’ll need about 2½ cups of strawberry puree for both the cake batter and the buttercream. This step not only adds flavor but also moisture, ensuring your cake stays fluffy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour mixture, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step incorporates air into your batter, creating that soft texture we all love.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and flavor to your cake.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients alternating with milk. Start and end with dry ingredients; mixing just until combined keeps your cake tender rather than tough.

Step 7: Fold in Strawberry Puree

Gently fold in 1½ cups of your pureed strawberries. This ensures that you preserve as much air as possible while still mixing in those delicious fruity flavors.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time while alternating with small amounts of strawberry puree. Beat in vanilla extract and salt until fully combined. Adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, if necessary, level off any domed tops from your cakes before frosting them. Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream on top of one layer before placing the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of your beautiful creation!

Step 11: Garnish and Serve!

If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries on top for an extra touch of charm. Slice into pieces and enjoy every delightful bite!

Now you’re ready to share this stunning Strawberry Cake with friends and family—it’s sure to be loved by everyone!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cake

Making this Strawberry Cake is a delightful journey, and with a few tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color. Frozen strawberries may water down the mixture and alter the texture of your cake.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps in achieving a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and airy texture we desire.

• Cool completely before frosting: Letting your cakes cool completely prevents the buttercream from melting. A well-cooled cake allows for an even application of frosting.

• Taste as you go: Remember to taste your strawberry puree before adding it to the frosting! Adjust sweetness if necessary to ensure that your buttercream perfectly complements the cake.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Presenting your Strawberry Cake beautifully can make all the difference at any occasion. Here are some ideas to elevate its appeal!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a pop of color but also bring a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Sliced strawberries: Place some fresh strawberry slices on top of your frosted cake for an inviting look that emphasizes its main ingredient.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice adds an extra layer of creaminess and visually enhances each plate.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the soft Strawberry Cake, providing a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the cake and add more fruity goodness to your dessert spread.
• Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade offers a zesty contrast to the sweet flavors of your cake, making it perfect for summer gatherings or picnics.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea serves as a lovely accompaniment, enhancing the overall experience while balancing out the sweetness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious Strawberry Cake! Enjoy every moment as you bake, serve, and savor this delightful treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices all week long. With a few simple storage techniques, you’ll keep this cake fresh and delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to one week.
• If you’ve already cut the cake, be sure to cover the exposed edges with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze your Strawberry Cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it with the date!
• Thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy your warm slice of strawberry goodness with a dollop of whipped cream if desired!

FAQs

Have questions about making this Strawberry Cake? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Cake?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before pureeing.

How do I make this Strawberry Cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Strawberry Cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What makes this Strawberry Cake so fluffy?

The key to achieving a fluffy texture lies in properly creaming the butter and sugar until light and airy. Additionally, gently folding in the strawberry puree helps maintain the airy structure of the batter.

Can I add more strawberries to the cake?

Absolutely! You can fold in additional chopped strawberries into the batter for extra bursts of flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid!

How should I decorate my Strawberry Cake?

You can top your Strawberry Cake with additional fresh strawberries or even drizzle some strawberry sauce over it. Edible flowers can also add a lovely touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Strawberry Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brightens any occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday, picnic, or just because—this cake will surely bring smiles all around. Don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends; they’ll love it! Happy baking!