Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that brings the taste of summer to any occasion. With its soft and fluffy texture, this cake bursts with real strawberry flavor in every bite. Topped with creamy strawberry buttercream, it’s a showstopper that is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Its beautiful pink hue and fresh ingredients make it a standout dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This Strawberry Cake is made with real strawberries, ensuring each slice is bursting with fruity goodness.
• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions make this cake simple enough for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration where you want to impress.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant color and garnished fresh strawberries make it visually stunning.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the strawberry puree and sour cream, this cake remains incredibly moist.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Strawberry Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 9-inch round cake pans
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating smooth strawberry puree which enhances flavor.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients

This Strawberry Cake is soft, fluffy, and packed with real strawberry flavor in every bite. Made with fresh purée and topped with a creamy strawberry buttercream, it’s the kind of cake that feels like sunshine on a plate. Pretty, pink, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

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 Strawberry 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)

For Garnish

• Fresh strawberries

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes come out easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Puree

Puree the strawberries in a blender until smooth. You will use this both in the cake batter and for the buttercream. This should yield about 2½ cups of strawberry puree.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. After incorporating each egg, stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from earlier while alternating with milk. Start by adding part of the dry mixture followed by milk, repeating until both are fully incorporated. Be sure not to overmix; mix until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in Strawberry Puree

Gently fold in 1½ cups of the pureed strawberries into your batter until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake Cakes

Divide your batter evenly between the 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 around 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat room temperature butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time while mixing in portions of strawberry puree (totaling 1 cup). Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; adjust consistency if needed.

Step 10: Assemble Cake Layers

Once cooled completely, cut off any domed tops from cakes if necessary. Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream on top of one layer before placing the second layer on top. Cover both layers with remaining buttercream over top and sides.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve

If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries on top before slicing into pieces to serve! Enjoy your delicious homemade Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake is an enjoyable experience that can elevate any occasion. This delightful cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it perfect for celebrations or simple gatherings.

Classic Pairings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to every slice.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the fruity flavor perfectly.
• Fresh Berries: Garnish your cake with additional fresh strawberries or other berries for a colorful presentation.

Beverages to Enjoy

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea balances the sweetness of the cake nicely.
• Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a refreshing zing.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can cleanse the palate.

Decorative Touches

• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also a hint of freshness to your serving.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an unexpected twist to this classic dessert.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake ensures it turns out delicious every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect slice.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Always opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor in both the cake and buttercream.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and ensures clean slices.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick or thin, adjust it using more powdered sugar or strawberry puree as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast that balances the sweetness effectively.
3. Pecan Pie: The rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie offers a delightful contrast alongside strawberry cake.
4. Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse makes for an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
5. Mini Cupcakes: Assorted mini cupcakes can create a fun dessert table alongside slices of Strawberry Cake.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These sweet treats bring a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Old leavening agents can lead to a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Be gentle when mixing in the dry ingredients. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of soft and fluffy.
• Not measuring strawberries correctly: Ensure you puree enough strawberries for both the cake and frosting. Using too little can result in a lack of flavor.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk should be at room temperature for better emulsification. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. Baking at too low or high temperatures can lead to uneven cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover strawberry cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep any cut surfaces covered to prevent drying out.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze it before adding any frosting.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes. This method keeps it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get more strawberry flavor in my Strawberry Cake?

You can enhance the strawberry flavor by using more strawberry puree or adding chopped fresh strawberries into the batter.

Can I substitute other fruits in this Strawberry Cake recipe?

Yes! You can replace strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, but adjust the sugar levels accordingly based on sweetness.

How long does it take to make Strawberry Cake?

The total time is around 85 minutes, including prep and cook time.

What type of frosting goes well with Strawberry Cake?

Strawberry buttercream is a perfect match, but cream cheese frosting also pairs nicely due to its tanginess.

Can I make this Strawberry Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s topped with fresh strawberries or enjoyed plain, its versatility shines through. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or flavors for a personal touch—your taste buds will thank you!

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Strawberry Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate summer delight with this Strawberry Cake, a luscious dessert that captures the essence of fresh strawberries in every bite. This cake features a soft and fluffy texture, complemented by a creamy strawberry buttercream that elevates it to showstopper status. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet escape, its beautiful pink hue and fresh ingredients will impress your guests. Enjoy the burst of real strawberry flavor that makes each slice feel like sunshine on your plate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1½ pounds fresh strawberries (for puree)
• 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)
• 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)
• Fresh strawberries (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Puree strawberries until smooth; set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time followed by sour cream and vanilla.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients with milk until just combined; fold in strawberry puree.
6. Divide batter into pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until done. Cool completely.
7. For the buttercream, beat room temperature butter, then gradually add powdered sugar and strawberry puree; mix well.
8. Assemble layers with buttercream and garnish with fresh strawberries.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Use ripe strawberries for maximum flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Don’t overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.