Description
Strawberry Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that bursts with fresh strawberry flavor. Made with pureed strawberries in both the cake and frosting, this delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberries, this light and fruity cake will leave everyone wanting more. It’s a perfect choice for spring and summer celebrations!
Ingredients
For the cake:
-
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
-
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 cup pureed fresh strawberries (about 1 1/2 cups chopped)
-
1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
For the frosting:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (to taste)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree (for flavor and color)
Instructions
-
Prepare the cake batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the pureed strawberries. The batter will be thick but smooth. -
Bake the cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. -
Prepare the frosting:
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh strawberry puree. Taste and adjust the sweetness or strawberry flavor as desired. -
Assemble the cake:
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first layer.
Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
Garnish with fresh strawberries or strawberry slices for an added touch. -
Serve:
Slice the cake and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. The cake is delicious on its own or paired with whipped cream.
Notes
Strawberry filling: Add strawberry jam or fresh sliced strawberries between the layers for an even more intense strawberry flavor.Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.Lighter frosting: Use whipped cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese or replace the frosting with sweetened whipped cream for a lighter alternative.