Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that will brighten any occasion. With its soft and fluffy texture, infused with fresh strawberry purée, this cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply indulging yourself. The creamy strawberry buttercream adds a touch of elegance, making it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: Each bite bursts with the sweet taste of real strawberries thanks to the fresh purée.
• Fluffy Texture: The combination of ingredients creates a light and airy cake that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion from family gatherings to special celebrations.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can create this masterpiece.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant pink color and fresh strawberry garnish make it visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Strawberry Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Blender
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly creaming butter and sugar.
• Blender: Perfect for making smooth strawberry purée, ensuring even distribution in your batter and frosting.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture, preventing sogginess.

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 to ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Strawberry Purée

Puree the strawberries in a blender until smooth. You should have about 2½ cups of strawberry purée for both the cake batter and frosting.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Set aside this dry mixture for later use.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar

Beat until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then stir in:
Sour cream
Vanilla extract

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with:
Milk

Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not over-mix!

Step 7: Fold in Strawberry Purée

Gently fold in 1½ cups of the pureed strawberries into your batter using a rubber spatula.

Step 8: Bake Cakes

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

Step 9: Make Strawberry Buttercream

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

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, if needed, cut off any domes from the cakes. Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and cover with remaining buttercream on top and sides.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your beautiful cake with fresh strawberries if desired! Slice it up and enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of Strawberry Cake on its own for a simple yet delicious dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with additional fresh strawberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side for a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delightful, creamy complement.

Coffee or Tea Companion

• Pair each slice with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors and create a cozy dessert moment.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Follow these tips to achieve outstanding results.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Always opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness in your cake and buttercream.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This ensures better mixing and a fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, which helps in even baking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cakes to cool completely before spreading buttercream; this prevents melting and sliding of icing.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich cake.
2. Vanilla Pudding
   The smooth texture of vanilla pudding pairs nicely with the fluffy cake, adding creaminess to each bite.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness of the cake, offering savory notes alongside it.
4. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice creates an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
5. Nutty Granola
   A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture and coziness, making it an interesting side dish choice.
6. Frozen Yogurt
   A scoop of tangy frozen yogurt can help cut through the sweetness while providing a cooling element.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Cake can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using overripe strawberries: Overripe strawberries can alter the flavor and texture of your cake. Always choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can lead to a dense or dry cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still warm can lead to crumbling. Allow your Strawberry Cake to cool completely before serving for a better texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined to keep your Strawberry Cake light and fluffy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different; baking at the wrong temperature may affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake:

Can I use frozen strawberries for my Strawberry Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid before pureeing.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Adding lemon zest or a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the strawberry flavor in your cake.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delicious variation.

What should I do if my cake is too sweet?

If your cake turns out too sweet, you can balance it by serving it with whipped cream or adding a tart fruit topping.

How long will my Strawberry Cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, your Strawberry Cake will remain fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only soft and fluffy but also brings joy with its vibrant strawberry flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different toppings or fillings, making it perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try making this delightful cake and enjoy every bite!