Cake Recipes Strawberry: 7 Simple Tips for Beginners

Name: Cake Recipes Strawberry: 7 Simple Tips for Beginners
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped for garnish

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite cake recipe: strawberry cake! There’s just something so delightful about the combination of fresh strawberries and moist cake that makes it perfect for any occasion. The moment you take a bite, you’re met with a burst of berry flavor, thanks to the pureed strawberries mixed right into the batter. It’s like tasting summer in every slice! I remember the first time I made this cake for a family gathering; everyone was raving about it! That’s when I knew I had to share my secret. Whether it’s a birthday, a picnic, or just a sunny afternoon, this strawberry cake is always a hit. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of it long after the last crumb is gone!

cake recipes strawberry - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful strawberry cake. I always recommend measuring out your ingredients beforehand to keep the process smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup milk, preferably whole for richness
3 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure if possible for the best flavor
1/4 teaspoon salt, to balance the sweetness
1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 8-10 strawberries, hulled)
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped for garnish

Make sure your strawberries are ripe and sweet, as they’re the star of the show! The fresher, the better. Now, let’s get baking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this scrumptious strawberry cake! Each step is crucial, so make sure to follow along closely for the best results.

Step 1 – Preheating and Preparing Pans

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is so important because starting with a hot oven ensures your cake rises beautifully! While that’s heating up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them generously with butter or cooking spray and then dust them with flour. This little step will save you from the heartache of a stuck cake later on. Trust me, you want that perfect slice without any drama!

Step 2 – Creaming Butter and Sugar

Now, in a mixing bowl, add your softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake that lovely, airy texture. You want it to look pale and creamy, so don’t rush it! The fluffier, the better!

Step 3 – Incorporating Eggs and Flavors

Next, it’s time to add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that they’re fully incorporated, which helps with the cake’s structure. After the eggs, stir in your vanilla extract and the strawberry puree. Oh, the aroma will be heavenly! This is where the magic of flavor begins to unfold.

Step 4 – Mixing Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. It’s super important to mix these dry ingredients well. This not only combines them but also aerates the flour, which contributes to a lighter cake. Make sure there are no lumps; we want a smooth and even batter!

Step 5 – Combining Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. I usually start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—this is key! Overmixing can result in a dense cake, and we want to avoid that. Just a few gentle folds will do the trick!

Step 6 – Baking the Cake

Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly between the two prepared pans. Give them a little jiggle to level the batter out. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If it’s gooey, give it a few more minutes!

Step 7 – Cooling the Cake

After baking, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to remove. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is so important—if you frost them while they’re warm, the frosting will melt, and we can’t have that! So, patience is key here!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delightful strawberry cake. Keep in mind that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But it gives you a good idea of what to expect!

Calories: 320
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 4g

So, as you can see, this cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a comforting indulgence you can enjoy without too much guilt. Perfect balance, right?

Tips for Success

Now, let’s make sure you nail this strawberry cake! Here are some of my best tips to help you achieve fantastic results every time. Trust me, these little secrets can make a big difference!

Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your strawberries is key! Use the ripest, juiciest strawberries for that vibrant flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you could substitute them with frozen ones, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly first.
Add Lemon Zest: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter. It brightens up the cake and complements the strawberries beautifully.
Experiment with Frostings: While I adore a classic buttercream topping, a cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this cake, giving it a nice tang. You can also try a whipped cream frosting for a lighter touch!
Layer It Up: Want to take it to the next level? Slice each cake layer in half to create four layers. Then, spread frosting between each layer and top with fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation!
Make It Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free too!
Chill Your Tools: If you’re making a whipped frosting, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. This helps the cream whip up faster and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Don’t Rush the Cooling: Cooling is crucial! Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge after they’ve cooled in the pans for a quick chill.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a strawberry cake that’s not just delicious but also visually stunning. Happy baking!

Variations

Now, let’s get creative! This strawberry cake is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious variations. Here are some ideas to spark your imagination and let you customize this recipe to your heart’s content:

Mixed Berry Bliss: Swap out some of the strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries! This gives the cake a vibrant, colorful twist and a medley of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Peachy Keen: For a summery touch, try adding pureed peaches along with the strawberries. The combination is divine, and the peach puree can add extra moisture and sweetness!
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup. This works especially well if you’re planning to use a sweet frosting or fresh fruit for garnish.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor. This is especially delightful in the fall or during chilly weather, giving your cake a comforting vibe.
Chocolate Strawberry Cake: For all the chocolate lovers out there, mix in some cocoa powder (about 1/2 cup) into the dry ingredients. This will give you a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries!
Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair. You can also top the cake with a coconut cream frosting to complement that coconut flavor.
Lemon Strawberry Cake: Enhance the cake’s brightness by adding lemon zest to the batter and using a lemon glaze instead of frosting. The citrusy zing works wonders with the strawberries!

Feel free to mix and match any of these ideas to create your own signature version of this delicious strawberry cake. The beauty of baking is in the experimentation, so have fun with it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here’s why I think you’re going to fall head over heels for it:

Incredible Flavor: The fresh strawberries shine through in every bite, providing a sweet and fruity taste that’s simply irresistible.
Moist and Tender: Thanks to the pureed strawberries and careful mixing, this cake is incredibly moist, making it a delight to eat.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a picnic in the park, or an afternoon tea with friends, this cake fits right in!
Easy to Customize: With endless variations and frosting options, you can personalize it to suit your taste or the season.
Visually Stunning: Topped with fresh strawberries and a gorgeous frosting, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach!
Perfect for Sharing: With 12 generous servings, it’s great for gatherings where you want to impress your friends and family.

Once you make this cake, I promise it’ll become a go-to in your baking repertoire. You’ll be dreaming of it long after the last slice is gone!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked this beautiful strawberry cake, let’s talk about how to elevate the entire dessert experience! Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complement the cake perfectly and impress your guests:

Fresh Fruit Medley: Serve slices of the cake alongside a refreshing fruit salad. Combine strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, and maybe even some kiwi for a colorful, vibrant touch. It adds a lovely contrast and enhances the fruity flavor of the cake!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic pairing. You can sweeten it lightly with sugar and a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. It adds a light, airy touch that complements the moist cake beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For those warm days, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful pairing. The cold ice cream melting into the warm cake creates a heavenly combination!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the cake for a rich, indulgent experience. The combination of strawberries and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser!
Fruit Compote: Create a simple strawberry compote by simmering some chopped strawberries with a bit of sugar. Serve it warm over each slice of cake for an extra burst of flavor and a lovely presentation.
Coconut Cream: If you’re feeling adventurous, try topping your cake with a fluffy coconut cream. It adds a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries!
Mint Leaves: Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note. It’s a simple touch that makes the presentation feel extra special.

With these serving suggestions, your strawberry cake will not only taste incredible but will also look irresistible on the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.