Strawberry Cake

Experience the classic delight of Strawberry Cake, a soft, fluffy sponge layered with luscious strawberry filling and topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Each bite is a perfect harmony of light, airy cake and sweet, juicy strawberries. This one’s a total game-changer for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want a treat that feels special.

Behind the Recipe

This cake brings back memories of childhood birthday parties and summer picnics. The combination of fresh strawberries with a fluffy sponge is nostalgic yet elegant. The first time I made it, the smiles and compliments at the table made me realize this dessert is truly a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Strawberry cake has roots in Western dessert traditions, often appearing in American and European bakeries. The use of fresh strawberries became more popular with modern refrigeration, allowing seasonal fruits to shine year-round. Its layered presentation makes it visually stunning as well as delicious.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cake

Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or afternoon tea.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward to bake with common baking ingredients.

Customizable: Switch strawberry filling for other berries or jams.

Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike for its sweetness and visual appeal.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated.

Great for Leftovers: Slices stay moist in the fridge for a few days.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use room-temperature eggs and butter for a lighter sponge.
• Fold whipped cream gently to maintain airiness.
• Chill before slicing to keep layers intact.
• Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Cake Pans: Two 8-inch pans for even layers.
Mixing Bowls: For batter and whipped cream.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Ensures smooth, lump-free batter.
Spatula: For folding whipped cream and spreading filling.
Knife or Cake Leveler: For trimming layers evenly.

Ingredients in Strawberry Cake

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups – forms the soft cake structure.
2. Sugar: 2 cups – sweetens and tenderizes the sponge.
3. Eggs: 4 large – bind ingredients and provide rise.
4. Butter: 1 cup, softened – adds richness and moisture.
5. Baking Powder: 2 1/2 teaspoons – helps the cake rise.
6. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – balances sweetness.
7. Milk: 1 cup – moistens the batter for a tender texture.
8. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – enhances flavor.
9. Strawberries: 2 cups, sliced – fresh filling and topping.
10. Whipped Cream: 2 cups – light, creamy frosting and decoration.
11. Strawberry Jam: 1/2 cup – optional for extra sweetness between layers.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter: Use margarine or vegan butter for dairy-free option.
Milk: Almond or oat milk works as a substitute.
Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace granulated sugar.

Ingredient Spotlight

Strawberries: Provide natural sweetness, juiciness, and vibrant color.
Whipped Cream: Adds lightness and contrasts with the soft sponge.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Cake

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
2. Combine Ingredients: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Mix dry ingredients separately and fold into wet ingredients alternately with milk.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Ensure pans are properly greased and lined for easy removal.
4. Assemble the Dish: Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
5. Cook to Perfection: Remove cakes from pans and level tops if needed.
6. Finishing Touches: Spread strawberry jam and sliced strawberries between layers, then frost with whipped cream. Top with fresh strawberries.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The cake is soft, light, and moist with subtle sweetness. Juicy strawberries and creamy frosting provide freshness and contrast, creating a well-balanced dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Keep strawberries dry until just before assembly to prevent soggy cake.
• Whip cream to soft peaks for easy spreading.
• Chill cake for 30 minutes to help frosting set.

What to Avoid

• Overmixing batter, which can make cake dense.
• Using overripe strawberries that may release too much juice.
• Frosting too soon, which can cause sliding layers.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12

Calories per serving: 320

Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Assemble a day ahead and store in the refrigerator, covered tightly. Keeps well for 2-3 days.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serve slices with extra whipped cream or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. Pair with tea, coffee, or a light dessert wine.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn slices into parfaits layered with extra whipped cream and berries in glasses.

Additional Tips

Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for presentation.

Make It a Showstopper

Decorate with whole strawberries, piping whipped cream, or alternating strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation.

Variations to Try

1. Add chocolate ganache between layers.
2. Replace strawberries with raspberries or mixed berries.
3. Use lemon zest in batter for extra brightness.
4. Swap whipped cream for cream cheese frosting.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
3. Do I have to use whipped cream?
   No, cream cheese frosting or buttercream can be used.
4. How do I keep layers even?
   Trim the tops with a cake leveler or knife.
5. Can I make it vegan?
   Use plant-based butter, milk, and whipped cream alternatives.
6. Why is my cake dense?
   Overmixing batter or not using enough leavening can cause this.
7. How long should I chill before slicing?
   30 minutes is sufficient to make clean slices.
8. Can I add filling between layers?
   Yes, use jam, fresh strawberries, or custard.
9. Should strawberries be sweetened?
   Optional, depending on ripeness. Lightly sprinkle sugar if desired.
10. Can I use a different pan size?
    Yes, adjust baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cake is a timeless dessert that delights with its light, fluffy layers and fresh berry flavor. Its creamy frosting and sweet strawberries make it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Let me tell you, every bite is a sweet celebration of flavor and texture, making it unforgettable.

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