Strawberry Cake Recipe: Create Deliciously Stunning Layers

Name: Strawberry Cake Recipe: Create Deliciously Stunning Layers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

June 2, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly magical about a strawberry cake, don’t you think? The way those juicy, red berries burst with flavor, creating a light and airy dessert that sings of summer! I absolutely love baking with fresh strawberries; it makes my kitchen smell heavenly and fills my heart with joy. Each slice of this cake is like a little piece of sunshine, perfect for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon treat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked! The combination of fluffy cake layers, whipped cream, and strawberries is simply irresistible. So, let’s dive in and make a cake that’s not just delicious but also feels like a warm hug in dessert form!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cake Recipe

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup milk, at room temperature
3 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar

How to Prepare Strawberry Cake

Prepping the Oven and Pans

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab your two 9-inch round cake pans. I like to grease them with a bit of softened butter, making sure to cover the bottom and sides thoroughly. Then, dust a light sprinkle of flour over the buttered surface. This little trick helps the cakes release beautifully after baking!

Creating the Cake Batter

Now, let’s make that dreamy batter! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes should do the trick. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for getting that airy texture! Next, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract—oh, that smell is heavenly! In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. This helps keep the batter smooth and avoids overmixing. Finally, gently fold in the sliced strawberries, being careful not to break them up too much.

Baking the Cake

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to divide it evenly between the prepared pans. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy; that’s just the strawberries peeking through! Bake for 25-30 minutes, and here’s a pro tip: check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden! Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing the Whipped Cream

While the cakes cool, let’s whip up some dreamy cream! In a chilled mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar. Whip it using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until you reach soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it fluffy and airy, not grainy! If you see soft peaks forming, you’re almost there!

Assembling the Strawberry Cake

Now comes the fun part—assembling the cake! Place one layer of the cooled cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top, making sure it reaches the edges. Add a layer of sliced strawberries for that burst of flavor. Gently place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream. For a beautiful finish, garnish with whole strawberries on top. And just like that, you’ve created a stunning strawberry cake that’s ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake Recipe

Fresh Flavors: The combination of ripe strawberries and whipped cream brings a burst of freshness that’s simply irresistible.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels, so you can whip it up any day!
Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant layers of pink and white make this cake a showstopper that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy gatherings.
Versatile Dessert: This cake can easily be transformed by adding different fruits or flavorings, making it a delightful choice for every season.
Perfectly Light: The airy texture of the cake paired with the creamy frosting creates a delightful balance that won’t weigh you down.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at a party or a family dinner, this strawberry cake is bound to wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds!

Tips for Success with Your Strawberry Cake Recipe

Alright, my fellow bakers, let’s make sure you nail this strawberry cake and impress everyone at your next gathering! Here are some of my top tips for making this cake a real showstopper:

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key to this recipe. The flavor of the cake will skyrocket if you use seasonal berries. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
Don’t Overmix: When you combine the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
Check for Doneness: Remember the toothpick test! Insert it into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
Chill Your Bowl for Whipped Cream: For the fluffiest whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for about 10 minutes before whipping. It helps the cream whip up faster and keeps its shape!
Layering and Frosting: When assembling the cake, don’t skimp on the whipped cream and strawberries between the layers. It adds flavor and moisture, making every bite delightful!
Add a Drizzle: For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling some melted chocolate or a berry sauce over the top before serving. It not only looks amazing but adds another layer of flavor!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delicious and beautiful strawberry cake ever! Happy baking!

Variations on the Classic Strawberry Cake Recipe

If you’re like me and love to get a little creative in the kitchen, this strawberry cake is the perfect base for experimenting! Here are some fun and delicious variations to try:

Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a delightful chocolate twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips for an extra treat!
Berry Medley: Swap out some of the strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. A mixed berry cake not only looks stunning but offers a burst of different flavors in every bite!
Coconut Cream: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair. Pair it with coconut-flavored whipped cream for a dreamy coconut strawberry cake!
Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavor by adding the zest of one lemon to the cake batter. This adds a lovely citrus note that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor profile. Just a teaspoon will infuse your cake with a delightful nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
Layered Strawberry Shortcake: Instead of a traditional cake, bake the batter in a jelly roll pan, then cut into squares and layer with whipped cream and strawberries for a fun twist on shortcake!
Spiced Strawberry Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This is especially wonderful in the fall!

These variations are not just delicious; they’re a fantastic way to make the classic strawberry cake feel new and exciting. So go ahead, let your creativity shine, and enjoy the process of baking something truly unique!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked and enjoyed your delightful strawberry cake, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to keep it fresh and tasty for future indulgence!

To store your strawberry cake, first, make sure it’s completely cooled. If you have uneaten cake, I recommend placing it in an airtight container. This will help keep it moist and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. If you don’t have a container big enough, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Just make sure to avoid any direct contact with the whipped cream topping to keep it looking beautiful!

Stored properly, your strawberry cake will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. However, I bet it won’t last that long because it’s just too irresistible!

If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake. Just slice it into individual pieces, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever the craving hits! It should stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. I recommend enjoying it chilled, but if you prefer, you can reheat it gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat. Just be careful not to overheat it, as you don’t want to compromise the fluffy texture!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every delightful bite of your strawberry cake long after it’s been baked. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Keep in mind that the nutritional values provided for this strawberry cake recipe are estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Factors like the size of the strawberries, the brand of sugar, and even how you measure your flour can all influence the final nutrition content. Always feel free to adjust ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy the baking process and remember that the joy of making this cake is just as important as the numbers on the nutrition label!

FAQ about Strawberry Cake Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter. This way, your cake won’t turn out soggy!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the whipped topping?
If you want a lighter option, you can use whipped topping like Cool Whip. Alternatively, you can make whipped cream with half-and-half, but it won’t be as rich. Just whip it until soft peaks form, just like with heavy cream.

How do I store the cake if I have leftovers?
Make sure your cake is completely cooled, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, slice it and freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap!

Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just assemble the cake with whipped cream and strawberries the day you plan to serve it for the best freshness.

What’s the best way to frost the cake without making a mess?
Using an offset spatula can really help with spreading the whipped cream smoothly. Start from the center and work your way out to the edges, and don’t worry if it gets a little rustic—sometimes, those charming imperfections add to the cake’s character!

Delicious Strawberry Cake

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Cookies Recipe!

For tips on baking with strawberries, visit Food Network’s guide on strawberries.

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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.