Strawberry Cake Recipe: Strawberry cake is a dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries with a soft, moist cake base.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer party, or just treating yourself, this delightful dessert is always a crowd-pleaser. The recipe we’re about to explore is straightforward yet impressive, perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
Let’s dive into the delicious world of strawberry cake!
Ingredients Required
For the Cake Base
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup fresh strawberry puree
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tbsp water)
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup fresh strawberry puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- A mixing bowl set.
- An electric mixer or stand mixer.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A rubber spatula.
- A cake pan (9-inch, two pieces for layers).
- A piping bag for decorating (optional).
Pro tip: Before starting, ensure your workspace is clean and all tools are at hand to streamline the process.
Preparing the Ingredients
Choosing the Best Strawberries
Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of this recipe. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from bruises. Organic strawberries are ideal as they have a more robust flavor. Wash and hull them thoroughly before use.
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Baking is a science, so precision matters. Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring jug for wet ingredients. Level off dry measurements with a knife for accuracy, especially for flour and sugar.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Cake Base
Preheating the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the cake pans with butter or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents, giving the cake a fluffy texture.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic touch.
Combining Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir gently after each addition to avoid overmixing. Fold in the fresh strawberry puree for a fruity burst of flavor.
Making the Strawberry Filling
Preparing Fresh Strawberry Puree
Blend fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. For a chunkier texture, mash them with a fork instead.
Cooking the Filling for a Thick Texture
In a saucepan, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened. Let the filling cool completely before use.
Creating the Perfect Frosting
Preparing the Buttercream Base
Begin by beating the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. This step is essential to achieve a light and fluffy frosting. Use an electric mixer for the best results.
Adding Strawberry Flavor to the Frosting
Gradually add powdered sugar to the butter, one cup at a time, while mixing continuously. Once incorporated, pour in the fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it reaches a spreadable consistency. If the frosting seems too thick, add a teaspoon of milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Assembling the Strawberry Cake
Layering the Cake
Once the cake layers have cooled completely, place the first layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of strawberry filling on top using an offset spatula. Ensure the filling doesn’t spill over the edges.
Applying the Filling and Frosting
Place the second cake layer on top of the first and gently press down to secure it. Spread a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake to seal in any loose crumbs. Chill the cake for 15–20 minutes, then apply the remaining frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula for a professional finish.
Decorating the Strawberry Cake
Simple Decoration Tips
For a classic look, top the cake with fresh whole strawberries and sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar. You can also pipe swirls of frosting along the edges using a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
Advanced Decorating Ideas
For a more elaborate design, consider adding chocolate-dipped strawberries, edible flowers, or a drip of white chocolate ganache. You can also use stencils to create intricate patterns with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Tips for Baking Success
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and butter ensure a smoother batter.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is done!
- Chill Before Frosting: A chilled cake is easier to frost, preventing the layers from sliding.
Variations of Strawberry Cake
Vegan Strawberry Cake Recipe
Substitute dairy butter with vegan butter and buttermilk with almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake Recipe
Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure that the mix contains xanthan gum for proper structure. Adjust the baking time slightly, as gluten-free cakes may cook faster.
Storing and Serving Strawberry Cake
Proper Storage Methods
Store leftover cake in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Strawberry cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or lemonade for a refreshing combination.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Uneven Layers: If your cake layers are uneven, trim them using a serrated knife before assembling.
- Dry Cake: Ensure you don’t overbake the cake. Adding an extra tablespoon of strawberry puree to the batter can help retain moisture.
- Too Sweet Frosting: Balance sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a few drops of lemon juice to the frosting.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per slice (based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 62g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 45g |
FAQs about Strawberry Cake Recipe
1. What ingredients are needed for a strawberry cake?
For a basic strawberry cake, you will need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and fresh strawberries. Some recipes might also include ingredients like sour cream or lemon zest for extra flavor.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in a strawberry cake recipe. Ensure they are thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter’s consistency.
3. How do I ensure my strawberry cake is moist?
To keep your strawberry cake moist, avoid overbaking it. Also, using ingredients like buttermilk or sour cream helps maintain moisture. Properly measuring your ingredients is crucial as well.
4. What frosting pairs well with strawberry cake?
Cream cheese frosting and vanilla buttercream are popular choices that complement the flavor of strawberry cake beautifully. For a lighter touch, whipped cream frosting also works well.
5. Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, to make a gluten-free strawberry cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Check that your baking powder and other additives are gluten-free as well.
6. How long does strawberry cake last and how should it be stored?
Strawberry cake can last up to three days at room temperature when covered or up to one week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing slices of the cake.
7. Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, swap out the strawberries for other berries, or incorporate nuts for added texture. Experimenting with different extracts like almond instead of vanilla can also offer a unique twist.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the combination of fresh strawberries, moist cake, and creamy frosting to brighten up any occasion. This strawberry cake recipe is as delightful to make as it is to eat. With simple steps and a bit of patience, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
