Strawberry cake is a beloved dessert known for its vibrant color, sweet aroma, and light, fluffy texture. This cake has long been a popular choice for birthdays, special occasions, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends. Originating as a classic Southern dish, strawberry cake is cherished for its rich strawberry flavor, often enhanced with a bit of cream or frosting. The combination of fresh strawberries and soft cake makes it an irresistible dessert that’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Not only does this cake capture the essence of spring and summer with its bright, fruity taste, but it also has a comforting, nostalgic feeling. Whether you make it from scratch or with a box mix, strawberry cake remains a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fresh strawberries year-round.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious strawberry cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup pureed fresh strawberries (about 6-8 strawberries)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons pureed strawberries (optional, for flavor and color)
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol if needed.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Prepare the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
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Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
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Add strawberries and vanilla: Stir in the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.
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Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. If desired, mix in pureed strawberries for added flavor and color.
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Frost the cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
- Use fresh strawberries: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. If using frozen, thaw them and drain excess liquid.
- Cream the butter and sugar well: Creaming the butter and sugar together properly will help ensure your cake is light and fluffy.
- Don’t overmix the batter: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Chill the frosting: If the frosting is too soft to spread, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm it up.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Version: Replace the eggs and butter with plant-based options like flaxseed egg substitutes and vegan butter.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of regular flour and opt for sugar substitutes.
- Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-strawberry twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Presentation: To serve, slice the cake into even pieces and garnish with fresh strawberry slices or whipped cream. Add a mint sprig for extra elegance.
- Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed tea or a glass of champagne for special occasions. Serve it alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 35g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How can I store the cake?
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
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Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just frost it before serving to keep it fresh.
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How do I reheat the cake?
- To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.
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What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
- You can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them and remove any excess water to avoid a runny batter.
Closing Thoughts
Strawberry cake is an easy and delightful dessert to add to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this strawberry cake recipe will be sure to please. Feel free to get creative with variations and toppings, and most importantly—enjoy the sweet, strawberry goodness!
