Ultimate Strawberry Cake Recipe
Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special – my Ultimate Ultimate. Strawberry Cake Recipe. Is it the kind of cake that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite, transporting you to another world? Back to summer days and sweet memories. Is it easier than a fancy layered cake, think of it as strawberry shortcake, but in cake form? I’ve been tweaking this recipe for years, and let me tell you, it’s a crowd-pleaser, even for those who don’t know me. Who claim they are not “cake people”? If you love strawberry flavor, then I know that you will enjoy this recipe. I love how easy it is to make strawberry ice cream!
What is strawberry cake?
Strawberry cake is, at its heart, a celebration of summer’s most beloved berry. Imagine a vanilla cake that went to sourdough and came back transformed. Is it essentially a moist, tender cake infused with the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries? What are some of the best examples of light and airy frosting? While some strawberry cakes rely on artificial flavorings, this recipe embraces the real deal – real strawberries. Just like other cakes, these are made with real strawberry preserves. Fresh strawberries pureed right into the batter and maybe even a little fresh strawberry jam or whipped cream. If you’re feeling fancy, you can make preserves. What is the taste of sunshine on a plate?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to fall in love with this Strawberry Cake recipe? What I love about this is the fresh strawberry flavor, pure and simple. Is it artificial strawberry flavor? I love that it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight, yet impressive enough for putting together at my party. What are some of the easiest recipes to make with simple ingredients? Is this recipe a little more complicated than strawberry layer cake? My family loves this cake and I’m sure yours will too!
How do you make a strawberry cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make a strawberry cake? How do you prepare a pan for baking? Next you are going to whisk the wet ingredients in another bowl. How do I bake a cake? Once the cake is baked and cooled, you will then prepare the frosting. When is it time to frost a cake?
Ingredients Notes:
For the Cake:
All-Purpose Flour: This is our base, so make sure it’s fresh! I always sift mine for a lighter texture.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness, of course! Is it possible to add brown sugar to a recipe?
Baking Powder: Our leavening agent! Don’t skip this, or your cake will be flat.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Eggs: They add richness and structure. I always use large eggs in baking.
Vanilla Extract: A must-have for that classic cake flavor. Use the real stuff for the best results!
Milk: This adds moisture to the batter. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Strawberry Puree: Made from fresh strawberries.
Strawberry Jam: What is This is optional but you can add this as well to give it more of that strawberry flavor.
For the Frosting: What’s
Unsalted Butter: Again, softened to room temperature.
Powdered Sugar: For a smooth frosting.
Milk: To adjust the consistency. Start with a little and add more as needed.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour in it – it’s a lifesaver! Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the cake in.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is crucial for a good rise.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract, strawberry puree, and strawberry juice. What should I do if I’m pink?
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix – this will result in a tough cake. I always stop mixing when I still see streaks of flour and then gently fold them in with a fork.
Step 5: Bake
How do I spread the batter in a pan? Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. How long does it take to bake a cake?
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake is completely cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter and sugar. I used powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Frost the cake and decorate with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Once the cake is frosted, slice and serve!
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best ways to make a delicious cake? What are some good serving suggestions?
For Breakfast:Can you serve a slice with coffee or smoothie? The sweetness of the cake is a perfect complement to coffee.
For Brunch:What is the best way to serve a brunch spread?
As Dessert:Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. What is the best combination of cold creaminess and warm cake?
For Cozy Snacks:What should I drink with a glass of milk or herbal tea? What are the best comfort foods for a relaxing evening?
What is your favorite way to serve strawberry ice cream? Is it strawberry overload?
How do I make a perfect strawberry cake?
How do I make a strawberry cake?
Strawberry Prep: WhatWhat are some good ways to use fresh strawberries for a delicious flavor? Frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use. Can you add freeze-dried strawberries to make it more flavorful?
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Ingredient Swaps: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and vegan butter. I’ve tested this, and it works great!
Baking Tips: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Ovens can vary, and accurate temperature is crucial for baking.
Glaze Variations: Add a touch of lemon juice to the frosting for a tangy twist. It brightens up the flavor and complements the strawberry beautifully.
The most important tip is to have fun! Baking should be enjoyable, so don’t stress too much about perfection. Even if your cake isn’t perfect, it will still be delicious.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy your strawberry cake for days to come? Here’s how to store it properly:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cold temperature will help preserve the moisture and flavor.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to frost it after thawing. This will prevent the frosting from becoming soggy.
I’ve found that the cake tastes best within the first 3 days, but it’s still delicious after that!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
There you have it – my Ultimate Strawberry Cake Recipe! It’s a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to summer barbecues. I really hope you try it. Once you make this, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes for more delicious inspiration. Happy baking!
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Ultimate Strawberry Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
- 0.5 cup strawberry puree made from fresh strawberries
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup confectioners' sugar sifted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and milk, and then gently fold in chopped strawberries and strawberry puree.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and confectioners' sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cakes are baked, allow them to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost the cooled cakes with the cream cheese frosting and garnish with additional fresh strawberries, if desired.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
