Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that brings the essence of summer into every slice. With its soft and fluffy texture, this cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration. The combination of fresh strawberry purée and creamy strawberry buttercream creates a vibrant flavor that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, its beautiful pink hue makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Made with real strawberries, this cake bursts with natural sweetness and fruity goodness.
• Fluffy Texture: The use of sour cream and whipped butter ensures that each bite is moist and airy.
• Versatile Occasion Use: Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, this cake suits any event.
• Easy to Follow: With simple steps, even novice bakers can create this beautiful dessert with confidence.
• Beautiful Presentation: The pink color and fresh strawberries on top make this cake visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Strawberry Cake, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Blender
• Spatula
• Cake pans (9-inch round)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Essential for achieving the light and fluffy texture needed in the cake batter.
• Blender: Used to puree strawberries smoothly, which is key for integrating flavor throughout the cake.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make this delicious Strawberry Cake, gather the following ingredients:

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)

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.

Step 2: Prepare Strawberry Purée

Puree the strawberries in a blender until smooth. You’ll use this both in the cake batter and 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.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the milk. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in Strawberry Purée

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

Step 8: Bake Cakes

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

Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time while alternating with small amounts of strawberry puree (totaling 1 cup). Beat in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar or strawberry puree as needed.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, cut off any domed tops from cakes if necessary. Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream on one layer before placing the second layer on top. Finish by spreading remaining buttercream over top and sides of cake.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired. Slice your beautiful Strawberry Cake and serve! Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in several creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of Strawberry Cake on a plate, garnished with fresh strawberry slices for a simple yet elegant presentation.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice. The lightness of the cream complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.

A La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

Festive Layers

• Create mini cakes by layering small slices of Strawberry Cake with buttercream in clear cups. This makes for a beautiful and portable dessert option.

Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy a slice of Strawberry Cake alongside your morning coffee or tea as an indulgent breakfast treat or snack.

Picnic Perfect

• Pack slices into individual containers for a delicious picnic treat. Pair with fresh fruit for a complete outdoor meal.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor. Avoid frozen berries for this recipe to maintain the cake’s light texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough results.

• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean from the center when fully baked.

• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.

• Adjust Buttercream Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add more strawberry puree; if it’s too thin, incorporate additional powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits like blueberries and raspberries enhances freshness and adds vibrant colors to your table.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and strawberries for a creamy side that balances sweetness with tartness.

3. Lemon Sorbet
   A refreshing lemon sorbet provides a tangy contrast that brightens up the palate after each bite of cake.

4. Cheese Platter
   Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese pair well with strawberries, creating an elegant appetizer before dessert.

5. Nutty Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars offer crunch and nutty flavors that contrast nicely with the soft texture of the cake.

6. Chilled Tea or Lemonade
   Refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade provide hydration while their flavors enhance the summer vibe of enjoying Strawberry Cake.

7. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   A classic pairing that adds extra indulgence while maintaining focus on strawberry flavors in both dishes.

8. Coconut Macaroons
   These sweet treats offer chewy texture and coconut flavor, making them an excellent companion alongside your cake slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Cake can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are common pitfalls to watch for:

• Not Using Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring the best flavor. Frozen ones may alter the cake’s texture and moisture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter, eggs, or milk can prevent proper mixing. Let these ingredients sit out before starting your recipe.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cake. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer if needed to ensure accuracy.
• Not Leveling the Cake Layers: Uneven layers can make stacking difficult. Trim any domed tops for an even surface before frosting.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• Frozen slices can last up to 3 months; just remember to label them!

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: For individual slices, heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm slices for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Strawberry Cake, here are some answers to common questions.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Adding fresh strawberry puree enhances flavor. You could also incorporate lemon zest or a hint of almond extract for extra depth.

Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Cake?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen strawberries if thawed and drained properly. Be cautious as they may add extra moisture.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

What are some variations of Strawberry Cake?

You can customize your Strawberry Cake by adding different fruits like raspberries or blueberries or using different frostings such as cream cheese frosting.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only beautiful but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or flavors to suit your taste! Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy every bite of sunshine on your plate.