Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake Recipe: A Nostalgic Indulgence

Imagine slicing into a stunning layer cake that boasts vibrant pink hues, fragrant strawberry scents, and the promise of sweet, juicy bites. This Strawberry Cake is a nostalgic indulgence that recalls sun-kissed summers spent picking strawberries, laughter echoing through the air, and delicious moments shared with friends and family. Not only is this delectable cake easy to whip up, but it also serves as a phenomenal centerpiece for gatherings, birthdays, and special occasions—an ultimate crowd-pleaser that even your little ones will adore. If you crave the irresistible combination of fluffy cake and luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, this Strawberry Cake recipe is undoubtedly worth making.

Are you ready for a slice of sweet nostalgia?

Have you ever found yourself reminiscing about the taste of fresh strawberries on a sunny afternoon? Can you remember the last cake you had that made your heart flutter with each sweet bite? If your sweet tooth is tingling at the thought of strawberries mingling beautifully with a fluffy cake, you’ve come to the right place!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this cake can be prepared in no time.

• Kid-Friendly: Little hands can help with the mixing and decorating, making it a fun family project.

• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is perfect for gatherings, birthdays, and any celebration that calls for indulgence.

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries adds a burst of flavor and natural sweetness to the cake.

• Visually Stunning: It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds, making it the perfect showstopper for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hull and slice, pureed and reduced)

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)

• 1.5 tsp baking powder

• 0.5 tsp salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup whole milk

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 0.25 cup strawberry puree (cooled, additional)

Picture the gorgeous, vibrant strawberries bursting with flavor, complementing the fluffiness of the cake layers. The rich, buttery softness of the cake contrasts perfectly with the creamy, dreamy frosting. These ingredients come together to create a dessert that tantalizes not just the taste buds, but also the heart.

Timing

Whether you’re in the mood for a fast and indulgent treat or want to take your time savoring each step, this Strawberry Cake can cater to your needs. Prepare it quickly for a last-minute gathering, or enjoy the slow, luxurious process of layering and decorating, allowing each element to shine.

Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Hull and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Puree them in a food processor, strain out the seeds, and simmer the puree until it reduces by half, resulting in a slightly thickened, luscious sauce. Let it cool completely.

2. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, and 0.5 teaspoons of salt; set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream together 0.5 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 4–5 minutes.

4. Incorporate the Eggs and Flavor: Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow with the vanilla extract and cooled strawberry puree.

5. Combine Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients in three parts with 1 cup of whole milk in two parts, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.

6. Bake the Cake: Divide your batter evenly between two greased and parchment-lined 9-inch cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing and leveling the tops if necessary.

8. Make Cream Cheese Frosting: To create the frosting, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar. Fold in the additional cooled strawberry puree until you achieve a creamy consistency.

9. Assemble the Cake: Spread frosting generously between the cake layers, then coat the top and sides of the cake with frosting. Feel free to decorate with fresh strawberry slices or delightful swirls of remaining frosting.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of this dreamy Strawberry Cake includes approximately 350 calories. While it’s a delightful indulgence, it’s the perfect treat for special occasions, allowing yourself to enjoy something truly special.

Healthier Alternatives

For those seeking lighter options, consider these variations:

• Low-Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with a low-calorie sweetener or sugar alternatives like erythritol.

• Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil and choose a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Strawberry Cake at family gatherings, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that added indulgence, or at holiday celebrations where it can be the star of the dessert table. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream and fresh mint for a refreshing finish.

Common Mistakes

To ensure your cake turns out beautifully:

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaked cakes can become dry and lose their soft texture.

• Texture Issues: Overmixing can develop gluten and create a dense cake. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.

• Messy Assembly: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting; this avoids melting and sliding of the frosting.

Storing Tips

To keep your Strawberry Cake fresh:

• Freezing Portions: Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing, allowing you to enjoy it later.

• Reheating Instructions: If frozen, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving. For a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tempting You to Bake It ASAP

This Strawberry Cake is not just visually stunning but also brimming with flavor that captures the essence of summer. Treat yourself and your loved ones with this delightful cake that offers a burst of freshness and nostalgia with each bite. Don’t wait—whip up this delectable treat and create memories that will last a lifetime!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
   Yes! Just ensure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess liquid.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them the next day.

3. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
   You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter option.

4. How do I prevent my cake layers from sticking?
   Ensure to properly grease your pans and use parchment paper for easy release.

5. Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
   Yes! Divide the batter into cupcake liners, adjusting the baking time to about 18-20 minutes. Enjoy these bite-sized treats!

Strawberry Cake

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A nostalgic indulgence featuring fluffy cake layered with luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hull and slice, pureed and reduced)
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 0.25 cup strawberry puree (cooled, additional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Hull and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Puree them in a food processor, strain out the seeds, and simmer the puree until it reduces by half, resulting in a slightly thickened sauce. Let it cool completely.
2. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, and 0.5 teaspoons of salt; set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream together 0.5 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow with the vanilla extract and cooled strawberry puree.
5. Combine Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients in three parts with 1 cup of whole milk in two parts, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between two greased and parchment-lined 9-inch cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing and leveling the tops if necessary.
8. Make Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar. Fold in the additional cooled strawberry puree until creamy.
9. Assemble the Cake: Spread frosting between the cake layers, then coat the top and sides with frosting. Decorate with fresh strawberry slices or swirls of frosting.

Notes

For lighter options, consider substituting granulated sugar with a low-calorie sweetener or using coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg