Imagine slicing into a fluffy, sun-kissed strawberry cake, the sweet aroma wafting through the air as luscious strawberries peek out from the soft crumb. Each bite is a dreamy explosion of tender vanilla sponge mingling with vibrant berry sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate and leaves you yearning for more.
This delightful strawberry cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings where laughter filled the air. Perfect for birthdays or simply to brighten up a rainy day, this cake promises an unforgettable experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds.
Why Does Everyone Love Strawberry Cake?
Irresistible flavor: This cake is bursting with the freshness of strawberries, making every bite a delightful experience.
Easy to make: With just 20 minutes of prep, you'll have a stunning dessert that impresses without the fuss.
Versatile treat: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, it suits all occasions and can be dressed up or down.
Moist texture: The combination of butter and milk delivers a light, fluffy crumb that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Quick frosting: Top it off with a simple yet delicious buttercream that’s ready in minutes—no complicated techniques required!
Strawberry Cake Ingredient List
- For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake, giving it structure and a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake, balancing the tartness of fresh strawberries beautifully.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a tender crumb in your Strawberry Cake.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together while contributing to the cake's height and texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite taste delightful.
- ½ cup milk – Keeps the batter moist and helps create that lovely soft texture we all adore.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – A leavening agent that ensures your cake rises perfectly during baking.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor without making it salty.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped) – The star ingredient that infuses this cake with vibrant, fruity flavor.
- For the Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture for your frosting.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Creates a creamy base for the frosting, yielding a luscious spread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to your frosting, making it even more flavorful against the cake.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency of your frosting for easy spreading or piping.
Step-by-Step Strawberry Cake
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring your cake pan now will help ensure your delightful strawberry cake releases easily after baking.
2. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes for that perfect texture!
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
4. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This dry mix is essential for giving your cake structure and lift.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid!
6. Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter for bursts of flavor in every bite.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as it bakes!
9. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely—this prevents sogginess while letting it breathe.
For the Frosting:
10. Beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy; this should only take about 2 minutes to achieve that silky texture.
11. Add powdered sugar gradually while mixing until smooth, creating a lovely base for your frosting that’s both sweet and rich.
12. Stir in vanilla extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency—add more milk if you’d like it thinner or keep it thick for spreading!
13. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake once it's completely cooled, transforming it into a delightful centerpiece worthy of any occasion.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh strawberries on top for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Strawberry Selection: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor; overripe or underripe berries can affect the cake's taste and moisture.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve a light and fluffy batter, key for a perfect Strawberry Cake.
- Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. This prevents a dense texture, allowing the cake to rise beautifully.
- Cooling Time: Cool the cake in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and prevents breakage.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust frosting thickness by adding more milk if it's too thick, or powdered sugar if too thin. Aim for a smooth, spreadable texture that complements your Strawberry Cake perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep your strawberry cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. A cake dome or plastic wrap works wonders to maintain moisture.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, store your cake in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure it's well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors.
- Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze slices of strawberry cake in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving!
- Frosting Storage: Any leftover frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before spreading it back on your strawberry cake!
Strawberry Cake Swaps & Twists
Feel free to explore these delightful variations that will add your personal touch to this scrumptious cake!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously moist cake. This swap ensures everyone can enjoy a slice of joy, regardless of dietary needs.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with ½ cup unsweetened applesauce and use plant-based butter. The result is a light, fluffy cake that still bursts with strawberry goodness while being completely vegan-friendly.
- Berry Medley: Mix in ½ cup of chopped blueberries or raspberries along with the strawberries for an exciting twist. This combination boosts the flavor profile and adds vibrant colors to your dessert.
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick. It complements the strawberries beautifully, creating a bright and sunny flavor that's perfect for springtime gatherings.
- Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to enhance the cake's nutty undertones. This subtle change adds depth and sophistication, making each bite feel special.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the frosted cake for a rich finish. This indulgent addition transforms your strawberry delight into an extraordinary treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical twist. The creamy texture and hint of coconut flavor elevate your cake to new heights, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation.
Make Ahead Options
This delightful Strawberry Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic candidate for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeks or special occasions. You can prepare the cake batter ahead of time by combining the ingredients such as 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup softened unsalted butter. Simply follow steps 1 through 9 (including folding in those luscious chopped strawberries) and store the unbaked batter in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The frosting can also be whipped up ahead of time; just mix together 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ cup softened unsalted butter, and a splash of milk until smooth. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve your Strawberry Cake, bake it fresh and frost it after it cools completely for that perfect burst of flavor!
Strawberry Cake Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure my strawberry cake remains moist?
To keep your strawberry cake moist, make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the flour. Also, using fresh, ripe strawberries will enhance moisture and flavor. You can even add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter for an extra boost of moisture!
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your batter. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may change the texture slightly, but the flavor will still be delightful!
What’s the best way to store leftover strawberry cake?
Store any leftover strawberry cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. However, for optimal freshness, it's best eaten within a few days.
Can I freeze this strawberry cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your strawberry cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay good for about 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
What are some dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk or another dairy alternative.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This scrumptious strawberry cake serves 4 people generously. Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, making it a lovely treat for a small gathering or family dessert night!
