Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that bursts with real strawberry flavor in every slice. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just a sunny afternoon, this cake is not only visually stunning with its vibrant pink color but also incredibly soft and fluffy. The fresh strawberry purée adds a natural sweetness that elevates the cake to new heights, making it a must-try for any cake lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The use of fresh strawberries ensures that each bite is packed with fruity goodness.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this beautiful cake.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, brunches, or any celebration where a sweet treat is welcome.
• Showstopper Presentation: The pink frosting and fresh strawberries make this cake a visual delight.
• Creamy Buttercream Frosting: The strawberry buttercream adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Tools and Preparation

To create your wonderful Strawberry Cake, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Electric mixer
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating smooth strawberry purée that infuses the cake with flavor.
• Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, ensuring a light texture.
• Wire Rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture at the bottom.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Strawberry Cake, you will need:

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’ll need about 2½ cups of purée for both the cake batter and buttercream.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy; this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Sour Cream

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Afterward, stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients while alternating with milk. Start with the dry mix and end with it; blend until just combined.

Step 7: Add Strawberry Purée

Gently fold in 1½ cups of strawberry purée into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to 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 together unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, alternating with small amounts of strawberry purée (totaling 1 cup). Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more powdered sugar or purée.

Step 10: Assemble Cake

Once cakes are cool, if there’s any dome on top, cut it off. Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream on top of one layer; place another layer on top. Cover both layers with remaining buttercream on top and sides.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired. Slice up your delicious Strawberry Cake and serve!

Enjoy your delightful creation that perfectly captures summer’s essence!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

This Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, serving it right can enhance the experience.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Top the cake with fresh strawberries for added flavor and color. This not only makes it visually appealing but also complements the strawberry taste.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the fluffy cake.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice. This adds lightness and richness that elevates the overall dessert experience.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an exciting twist. It contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy slices of Strawberry Cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage balances the cake’s sweetness.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Use Ripe Strawberries: Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness in both the cake and buttercream.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cakes while they bake; every oven is different. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cakes to cool completely before adding buttercream to prevent melting and sliding.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

When serving Strawberry Cake, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance out the sweetness with their savory notes.
3. Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty treats offer a contrasting texture and flavor that complements the soft cake.
4. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate beautifully after enjoying your slice of cake.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dessert pairs well with strawberry flavors and adds indulgence to your meal.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Offer assorted mini cupcakes as additional desserts for variety without overwhelming guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Strawberries: Overripe strawberries can affect the flavor and texture of your cake. Choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best taste.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so it’s crucial to measure ingredients like flour and sugar accurately. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to an uneven batter. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature before baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Strawberry Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake:

How do I make strawberry puree?

To make strawberry puree, blend fresh strawberries in a blender until smooth. You can strain it if you prefer a smoother texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before pureeing them.

What should I serve with Strawberry Cake?

Strawberry Cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries also make an excellent garnish.

How do I customize my Strawberry Cake?

You can add other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, or incorporate lemon zest for added flavor. Experimenting with different frostings is also fun!

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its soft texture and vibrant flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings to fit your taste!