Strawberry Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels like a hug in every bite, this Strawberry Cake is just the ticket. It’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with the fresh taste of strawberries! This cake is perfect for any occasion—a sunny afternoon gathering, a birthday party, or even a cozy weeknight treat. The vibrant pink color and delicious strawberry buttercream make it not only a feast for your taste buds but also a gorgeous centerpiece on your table!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summer days spent picking strawberries with loved ones. Each slice is like sunshine on a plate, and I can guarantee it will disappear faster than you can say strawberry shortcake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip this cake up without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves strawberries! This cake is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake the cake ahead of time and frost it when you’re ready to serve—it’s perfect for busy days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberry puree in both the cake and the buttercream makes every bite utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Strawberry Cake are simple and wholesome, making it easy to bring this delightful dessert to life. You’ll love how straightforward they are!

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)

For the Strawberry Buttercream

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Strawberry Cake recipe is how flexible it can be. Feel free to get creative!

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Experiment with Flours: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for added flavor and texture.
• Mix in Other Berries: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry delight.
• Change Up the Frosting: Try cream cheese frosting instead of strawberry buttercream for a tangy finish.

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans will ensure your cakes come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Puree the Strawberries

Puree those beautiful strawberries in a blender until smooth. This step is key because you’ll use this luscious puree throughout the recipe. Aim for about 2½ cups!

Step 3: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps combine everything evenly and creates that airy texture we love in cakes.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This step introduces air into your batter for that lovely fluffy finish.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in each egg one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and flavor to our delicious cake.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients, alternating with milk. Start with dry ingredients and end with them too—it keeps everything beautifully balanced!

Step 7: Fold in Strawberry Puree

Gently fold in 1½ cups of that vibrant strawberry puree we made earlier. This will infuse your batter with rich strawberry flavor that shines through after baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake them for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Buttercream

In another bowl, beat your room-temperature butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time along with small amounts of strawberry puree. This makes an incredibly creamy frosting that’s full of flavor!

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, level off any domed tops if needed. Spread some strawberry buttercream on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, then frost generously over the top and sides.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve!

Feel free to garnish with fresh strawberries if you’d like! Now slice into this beautiful Strawberry Cake and enjoy every moment—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out beautifully every time!

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also provide natural sweetness and moisture to your cake. Frozen strawberries can alter the texture and taste, so opt for fresh whenever possible.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter. This ensures better incorporation of ingredients and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Cool Cakes Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. If they’re still warm, the buttercream will melt and slide off rather than creating that lovely smooth finish.

• Taste Your Buttercream: Adjust the sweetness of your strawberry buttercream by tasting as you go. If it feels too sweet, a pinch of salt can balance the flavors perfectly!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Presenting your Strawberry Cake is just as important as baking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can make this dessert even more inviting for your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: A handful of whole or sliced fresh strawberries on top adds a pop of color and reinforces that fruity flavor.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint can add a refreshing note and elevate presentation with its vibrant green contrast against the pink cake.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dusting the top with powdered sugar just before serving gives it an elegant finish that looks stunning on any table.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a light and fluffy topping that complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing that contrasts well with the soft cake texture.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds variety and brightness to your dessert spread while keeping things light.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Serve alongside a glass of refreshing lemonade or iced tea for an ideal warm-weather treat that enhances the overall experience.

Now you’re all set to bake, serve, and enjoy this delightful Strawberry Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Strawberry Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors over a few days. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these storage tips will help keep your cake fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s covered well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer of cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the layers before frosting.

Reheating

• To enjoy a slice at room temperature, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
• If you prefer it warm, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Strawberry Cake recipe.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Cake?

While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.

What makes this Strawberry Cake so special?

The combination of real strawberry puree in both the cake and buttercream gives this Strawberry Cake an irresistible burst of flavor. It’s not only beautiful but truly delicious!

How should I store leftover Strawberry Cake?

Leftover Strawberry Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Can I make the Strawberry Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and freeze them un-frosted. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and frost with buttercream.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Strawberry Cake! It’s a wonderful treat that brings sunshine and sweetness into any gathering. Don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be thrilled when they taste this soft, fluffy delight. Happy baking!