Craving a dessert that captures the essence of summer? Dive into this irresistible strawberry cake, where juicy strawberries create a naturally pink, flavor-packed treat. Topped with velvety cream cheese frosting, this moist cake is a crowd-pleaser for picnics, birthdays, or any sunny day.
Simple to make, even beginner bakers can create a show-stopping treat, it’s your new go-to for sweet celebrations. Let’s bake something unforgettable.
See also: Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake
This strawberry cake stands out for its tender crumb, vibrant flavor, and stunning presentation. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Using real strawberries gives the cake a bright, natural taste.
- Moist and Tender: The perfect balance of ingredients ensures a soft, fluffy texture.
- Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cake.
- Summer Vibes: It’s a refreshing dessert for hot days, ideal for outdoor celebrations.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving a sweet treat, this cake will become a summer favorite. Plus, it’s a great way to use those juicy strawberries from the farmers’ market!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cake
To make this delightful cake, gather these fresh and pantry-staple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Pink food coloring (optional, for a brighter hue)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Pro Tip: For a healthier twist, consider adding Moringa Actives, a supplement that supports weight loss and metabolism, to your routine while enjoying this treat in moderation.
See also: Easy Mango Sago Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To whip up this strawberry cake, you’ll need the following tools. Each piece of equipment makes the process smoother and more efficient.
- 9-inch cake pans (two)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Food processor or blender (for pureeing strawberries)
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Having these tools ready ensures a stress-free baking experience. If you’re looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while indulging, check out Keto Actives, a supplement designed to support weight loss and appetite control.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create your strawberry cake. The process is straightforward, and the result is a beautiful, delicious dessert.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Puree 2 cups of fresh strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside ¾ cup of the puree for the cake batter and reserve the rest for optional use in the frosting or as a garnish.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add ½ cup vegetable oil, 4 eggs, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and ¾ cup strawberry puree. Mix until smooth. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring for a vibrant hue.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients (three additions of dry, two of buttermilk). Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared 9-inch cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz cream cheese and ½ cup unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Beat until fluffy. For a strawberry twist, mix in 2 tablespoons of reserved strawberry puree.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides using an offset spatula. Decorate with fresh strawberries if desired.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and serve this summery strawberry cake at room temperature for the best flavor. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
See also: Lavender Macarons Recipe
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cake
To ensure your cake turns out flawless, keep these tips in mind:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the buttermilk—it adds moisture and tenderness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, reduce the puree on the stove to thicken it before adding to the batter.
- Chill the frosted cake for 20 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Want to enjoy this cake guilt-free? Pair it with Cappuccino MCT, a slimming coffee that boosts metabolism and energy.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Here’s an estimated nutritional profile for one slice of strawberry cake) (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 72 g
- Sugar: 52 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
These values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. For those looking to support their weight management goals, consider Probiosin Plus, a probiotic supplement that aids digestion and weight control.
See also: Double Berry Mascarpone Cobbler Recipe
Variations to Try
Switch up this strawberry cake with these creative ideas:
- Cupcakes: Bake the batter in a cupcake tin for 18-20 minutes.
- Layered Trifle: Cube the cake and layer with whipped cream and strawberries in a glass.
- Lemon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy kick.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for extra indulgence.
Storing and Freezing
To keep your strawberry cake fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting.
Pairing Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with:
- A glass of sparkling rosé wine
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A cup of iced tea with lemon
Health and Wellness Connection
While this strawberry cake is a delightful indulgence, balance is key to a healthy lifestyle. If you’re focused on weight management, explore supplements like Fat Burn Active, which supports fat metabolism, or Meltamin, a tasty fat-burning drink.
For those on a keto diet, NuviaLab Keto can help maintain ketosis while enjoying occasional treats.
See also: Easy Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Strawberry Cake
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones for this strawberry cake?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw and drain them well before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the batter. This ensures your strawberry cake maintains its perfect texture.
2. How can I make this strawberry cake recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk like almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Use vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. For a health boost, consider Fibre Select to support digestion.
3. How long does it take to prepare and bake this strawberry cake?
The preparation takes about 20 minutes, including pureeing strawberries and mixing the batter. Baking takes 25-30 minutes, and frosting requires another 10 minutes. Allow extra time for cooling. Total time is roughly 1 hour, excluding cooling. Pair with Cappuccino MCT for an energy boost while baking!
4. Can I make this strawberry cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Frost the strawberry cake on the day of serving for the freshest taste.
You can also freeze unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. Try Moringa Actives to support your metabolism if enjoying this treat regularly.
5. What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting for this cake?
If you prefer a different frosting, try whipped cream for a lighter option or a buttercream frosting for extra sweetness. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a decadent twist. For weight management, check out Keto Actives to balance indulgence.
See also: Easy Lemon Squares Recipe
Conclusion
This easy homemade strawberry cake is the ultimate summer dessert, bringing fresh, vibrant flavors to any occasion. With its moist texture, creamy frosting, and natural strawberry goodness, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next gathering and watch it become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Want to share your baking adventures? Drop a comment below or tag us on Pinterest with your creations! For more tips on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, check out Collagen Select for healthy skin or NuviaLab Sugar Control to support stable blood sugar levels.
Looking for more delicious summer dessert? Here are a few of my favorites!
- Magic Cake Recipe
- Easy Wacky Cake Recipe
- Watergate Salad Cake Recipe
- Best Pickle Popsicles Recipe
- No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart Recipe
