Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that melts in your mouth. Bursting with fresh strawberries and topped with rich buttercream, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you deserve a treat. This cake combines simplicity with an impressive presentation, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this Strawberry Cake recipe will make you feel like a pro.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious cake without stress.
• Fresh Flavors: The use of real strawberries adds a refreshing taste that elevates this cake beyond ordinary desserts.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or casual gatherings—this cake fits any event effortlessly.
• Stunning Presentation: Topped with luscious buttercream and fresh strawberry puree, it looks as good as it tastes.
• Customizable Options: Adjust sweetness and colors to suit your preferences—make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To craft your Strawberry Cake perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures your batter is mixed evenly and saves time compared to mixing by hand.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are incorporated fully.

Ingredients

This melt in your mouth strawberry cake filled with fresh strawberries and covered in a luscious buttercream is beyond easy to make and so delicious!

For the Cake

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (330g)
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) (227g)
• 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk (120ml)
• ½ cup fresh strawberry puree (reduced) (see Notes) (120ml)
• pink food coloring (optional)

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature) (227g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) (227g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 6 to 7 cups powdered sugar (sifted) (720g-840g)
• ¼ cup fresh strawberry puree (reduced) (see Notes)

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them thoroughly or lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Baking soda

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

Add egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture alternately with whole milk and strawberry puree. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Prepare Frosting

Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. In the meantime, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy; stir in vanilla extract, salt, and strawberry puree.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cakes are cooled, frost between layers and on top using your prepared buttercream frosting. Decorate as desired with additional strawberries or icing techniques.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cake, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving your Strawberry Cake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice of strawberry cake with a medley of fresh berries like blueberries and raspberries for a colorful and flavorful addition.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pairing a slice with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream creates a creamy contrast that complements the cake’s texture and flavor wonderfully.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. It enhances the sweetness and gives a light, airy texture.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cake adds richness. The combination of strawberries and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser.

Mint Garnish

• For a refreshing touch, garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves. This adds color and an aromatic element to the presentation.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake is easy if you follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for both the puree and decoration. Fresh fruit enhances flavor significantly.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle during this step.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks. Frosting a warm cake can melt your frosting and create a mess.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add additional flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to customize your strawberry cake uniquely.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can complement the sweetness of the cake without overpowering it.

2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweet flavors nicely, adding depth to your dessert spread.

3. Coffee or Tea: Serving coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting beverage option that pairs well with cake during afternoon gatherings.

4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These are perfect as they echo the flavors in the cake while adding an elegant touch to your dessert table.

5. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert offers a smooth contrast to strawberry cake, making for an exquisite combination.

6. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons add texture and coconut flavor that complements strawberries beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a strawberry cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect the texture of your cake. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into your cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for clean edges and better presentation.

• Using Stale Baking Powder: Old baking powder can lead to ineffective rising. Always check the expiration date to ensure your cake rises perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep the strawberry cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making strawberry cake:

How do I make a strawberry cake?

To make a strawberry cake, combine flour, sugar, butter, egg whites, and pureed strawberries, then bake until golden brown.

Can I use frozen strawberries for my strawberry cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.

What is the best way to decorate my strawberry cake?

Consider using whipped cream or additional fresh strawberries as toppings. You could also drizzle some strawberry puree for extra flavor.

How long does homemade strawberry cake last?

Homemade strawberry cake lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months when frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This melt-in-your-mouth strawberry cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or flavors according to your preference. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress everyone who tries it!