When the sun is shining, and strawberries are at their peak, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a delightful homemade strawberry cake. Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, this cake is a true testament to the beauty of summer. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or simply craving a fruity indulgence, this strawberry cake recipe will make your taste buds dance with joy. So, let’s dive into the world of luscious strawberries and create a cake that will steal the show:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, pureed
- Red food coloring (optional)
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup fresh strawberry puree
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
- Gently fold in the fresh strawberry puree. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to intensify the color of the cake.
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be lightly golden and springy to the touch.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the strawberry frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh strawberry puree until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of strawberry frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining strawberry frosting. For a decorative touch, garnish with fresh strawberries.
- Slice and serve this heavenly strawberry cake, relishing in the vibrant strawberry flavor and the moist, tender crumb.
This strawberry cake is the epitome of summer indulgence. With each bite, you’ll experience the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the bliss of homemade goodness. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the fruity delight, and create a cake that will make your taste buds dance with joy.