Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this heavenly strawberry cake! Seriously, it’s like a slice of summer on your plate. Every bite is a delightful mix of moist, fluffy cake bursting with the essence of fresh strawberries. I’ve been baking this cake for years, and it never fails to impress! Whether it’s for a birthday party, a cozy get-together, or just because I need a little sweetness in my life, this cake is my go-to recipe. I remember the first time I made it; I was so excited to surprise my friends, and when they took that first bite, their eyes lit up! That moment made me realize just how special this cake is. Trust me, the creamy frosting paired with the juicy strawberry puree creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up something truly magical that’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy!
Ingredients List
Before we dive into baking, let’s gather everything we need to make this heavenly strawberry cake! I promise, having all your ingredients ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cake! Make sure to spoon and level it in your measuring cup for accuracy.
- 1 ½ cups sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve that fluffy texture we love.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Let it sit at room temperature to soften. Trust me, it makes creaming with the sugar a breeze!
- 1 cup milk: I use whole milk for richness, but you can swap it out for any milk you prefer.
- 3 large eggs: These help bind everything together and add moisture. Bring them to room temperature for best results.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is our leavening agent, ensuring the cake rises beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Always go for pure vanilla extract if you can. It really elevates the flavor!
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed: Fresh is key here! Ripe strawberries bring that vibrant flavor. Just blend them up until smooth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This will be whipped for our frosting, creating that creamy, dreamy topping.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: This sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape. Sift it if you want a smoother texture.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be one step closer to baking a cake that’ll leave everyone raving! Remember, fresh ingredients make all the difference, especially the strawberries!
How to Prepare Heavenly Strawberry Cake
Alright, let’s get our hands a little messy and bake this heavenly strawberry cake! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the end result is so worth it. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to cake heaven!
Preheat and Prepare Pans
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps the cake rise just right! While that’s warming up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them with a little butter or cooking spray, and then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Trust me, this step is a lifesaver when it’s time to remove the cake!
Create the Cake Batter
Now, let’s make that fluffy batter! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. You’ll want to see a nice pale color. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air and gives your cake that lovely texture! Stir in the vanilla extract and the fresh strawberry puree, letting all those delicious flavors mingle.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This is where the magic happens! Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with a third of the flour mixture, mix it in, then add half the milk, and keep alternating until everything’s combined. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until you don’t see any more flour. You want that batter to be smooth and luscious!
Bake the Cake
Now, pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling time is crucial for the perfect texture!
Frosting the Cake
While your cakes are cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. It should be thick and fluffy, perfect for frosting! Once your cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate, frost the top with whipped cream, and add some sliced strawberries for that extra touch. Then, place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. You can even add more strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation. Voilà! Your heavenly strawberry cake is ready to shine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation Time: You can whip up this cake in just about an hour, making it perfect for those last-minute sweet cravings!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy frosting creates an explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: Every bite is wonderfully light and airy, thanks to the careful mixing and the quality ingredients.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sunny picnic day, this cake is sure to impress your guests!
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the frosting or layer in different fruits to make it your own.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for everyone, as it’s completely vegetarian, making it an inclusive dessert option.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: With its vibrant colors and fluffy frosting, this cake is as beautiful as it is tasty!
- Leftovers Are a Treat: If you manage to have any cake left, it keeps well in the fridge and tastes just as good later!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your heavenly strawberry cake turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got some pro tips for you that’ll elevate your baking game!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything blend together smoothly and creates that fluffy texture we’re after!
- Be Gentle with the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want light and airy!
- Fresh Strawberries are Key: Always opt for fresh strawberries for the puree. Frozen ones can work in a pinch, but fresh really gives that vibrant flavor and color to the cake!
- Chill Your Whipped Cream: For the frosting, make sure your bowl and beaters are cold before whipping the cream. It helps the cream whip up faster and keeps its shape better!
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a lot left, you can also freeze individual slices! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to keep them fresh.
- Substituting Ingredients: If you need to make this cake gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the label for any added ingredients!
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to play around with different extracts or add a bit of lemon zest for a citrus twist in the cake. It’s fun to make it your own!
With these tips in your pocket, you’ll have a heavenly strawberry cake that’s sure to impress! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, if you’re like me, you might be curious about the nutritional breakdown of this heavenly strawberry cake! While it’s all about enjoying it in moderation, here’s an estimated look at what’s in each serving. Remember, these values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
So, there you have it! This cake is a delightful treat, and while it’s not exactly a health food, it’s made with love and fresh ingredients. Enjoy every bite guilt-free, knowing you’ve got something truly special on your plate!
Frequently Asked Questions
I know you might have a few questions about making this heavenly strawberry cake, so let’s tackle them! I’ve got answers to some of the most common queries to help you out.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are my go-to for this cake, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. Puree them as you would fresh ones, and you’ll still get a delicious cake!
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve got a lot left, you can also freeze individual slices—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to keep them fresh. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check the label to make sure it’s a good quality blend, and you’ll have a gluten-free version that’s just as heavenly!
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the frosting?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use whipped topping or even cream cheese as an alternative. Just remember that the texture and flavor will be a bit different, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I add other fruits or flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to mix it up by adding different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a twist. You can also incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus kick. Get creative!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready! Remember, a little bit of moisture is okay, but you don’t want it to be wet.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them tightly wrapped in the fridge for a day or two. Just frost them right before serving to keep that whipped cream fresh and fluffy!
With these FAQs in mind, you’ll feel even more prepared to whip up your heavenly strawberry cake! Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked this gorgeous heavenly strawberry cake, let’s talk about how to serve it up to really impress your friends and family! Presentation is key, and I have some delightful ideas that’ll take your cake experience to the next level.
First off, a slice of this cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the fluffy cake and fresh strawberries perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in textures. You can even drizzle a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for that extra touch of decadence!
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, how about serving it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed nuts? The crunch from the nuts adds a lovely element alongside the soft cake, and it looks gorgeous too! You could also serve it with a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing twist.
For beverages, a chilled glass of sparkling water with fresh mint or a splash of lemon complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, a fruity iced tea or a crisp rosé wine can elevate the whole experience. Trust me, these drinks will make your cake feel even more special!
Lastly, if you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving the heavenly strawberry cake as part of a dessert table alongside other treats like mini cheesecakes or chocolate-dipped strawberries. It creates a festive atmosphere and offers a variety of flavors for your guests to enjoy.
With these serving suggestions, your heavenly strawberry cake will be the star of the show, leaving everyone raving about how delicious it is! Enjoy every moment of sharing this delightful creation!
Print
Heavenly Strawberry Cake: 7 Joyful Bites of Nostalgia
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously moist and fluffy strawberry cake topped with creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla and strawberry puree.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cakes are cool, frost the top of one layer with whipped cream, add sliced strawberries, and place the second layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining whipped cream.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor.
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator.
- Can substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: heavenly strawberry cake, strawberry dessert, cake recipe