Strawberry Skillet Cake

Strawberry Skillet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines fresh strawberries with a moist, fluffy cake, all baked in a skillet. This simple yet scrumptious recipe highlights the juicy sweetness of strawberries and creates a beautiful presentation that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. The cake is easy to make and is an excellent way to celebrate the flavors of summer, making it a favorite choice for gatherings, potlucks, and even weeknight treats. With its golden crust and vibrant strawberry topping, this cake not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning and inviting.

You can enjoy this cake warm, right out of the oven, or let it cool and serve it later. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, it becomes more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just wanting to treat yourself, Strawberry Skillet Cake is sure to impress.

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or skills; just a few basic ingredients and a good skillet. With every bite, the juicy strawberries burst with flavor, complemented by the rich, buttery cake. This dessert invites creativity, too. So, gather up your ingredients and let’s make this delicious Strawberry Skillet Cake!

Ingredients about Strawberry Skillet Cake

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 lb strawberries, thinly sliced into rounds
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to make some substitutions in the Strawberry Skillet Cake, consider the following options. You can use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a healthier alternative. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though the texture may vary slightly. For a lighter option, you could replace sour cream with Greek yogurt. If you’re dairy-free, using a plant-based butter alternative and dairy-free yogurt will also work well in this recipe.

How to Make Strawberry Skillet Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Skillet

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 12-inch oven-safe skillet by greasing it well. To make sure the cake doesn’t stick, add a parchment paper circle to the bottom of the skillet, and grease it again. This will allow for easy removal of the cake once it’s done baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

In a large mixing bowl, take the sliced strawberries and add the brown sugar and cornstarch. Gently stir everything together until the strawberries are fully coated with the sugar and cornstarch mixture. This step helps to draw out the juices from the strawberries and create a luscious topping for your cake. Once coated, place the strawberries in the prepared skillet, spreading them into an even layer.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a separate small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt together using a whisk. This will ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until everything is well combined and smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a denser cake.

Step 4: Baking the Cake

Pour the prepared cake batter over the layer of strawberries in the skillet. Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter evenly over the strawberries. If you find the batter is sticky, moistening your hands slightly can help in spreading it without it sticking too much. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

After removing the skillet from the oven, allow the cake to cool in the skillet for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, carefully invert it onto a serving platter or a large plate and gently peel away the parchment paper. For the best flavor and texture, let the cake cool completely or refrigerate it before slicing.

How to Serve Strawberry Skillet Cake

Best ways to serve Strawberry Skillet Cake

Strawberry Skillet Cake is best served warm, making it a perfect dessert right out of the oven. However, it can also be served chilled. The juicy strawberries and fluffy cake make it a refreshing choice for hot days.

Serving suggestions or pairings

For an indulgent treat, serve each slice of Strawberry Skillet Cake with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warmth of the cake combined with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast. You can also drizzle some homemade strawberry sauce or caramel over the top for added sweetness, or sprinkle some powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Additionally, a dollop of whipped cream can enhance the presentation and flavor.

How to Store Strawberry Skillet Cake

Proper storage methods

To keep Strawberry Skillet Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can place it at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a day or two. However, for longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate it. The cooldown will help maintain the cake’s moisture and flavor.

Tips for reheating or freezing

When reheating, you can place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. If you prefer not to microwave, you can reheat slices in a preheated oven at a low temperature until warm. For freezing, wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Tips to Make Strawberry Skillet Cake

Common mistakes to avoid

One of the most crucial mistakes is overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are combined with the wet ones. This can lead to a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy cake. Also, ensure that you correctly prepare the skillet to prevent sticking, which can ruin the presentation. Using strawberries that are too ripe or overly mushy can result in a soggy cake, so pick fresh, firm strawberries for the best results.

Helpful tips for better results

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a little lemon juice or zest to the strawberry mixture. A pinch of cinnamon in the cake batter can also enhance the overall taste. Make sure to let the cake cool completely before slicing, as this will help it maintain its structure. Lastly, experimenting with fruits other than strawberries, like blueberries or peaches, can bring variety to a tried-and-true favorite.

Variation of Strawberry Skillet Cake

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You could make a mixed berry skillet cake by replacing some or all of the strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Focusing on seasonal fruits can keep the recipe fun and exciting. Additionally, adding nuts, such as chopped almonds or walnuts, can offer a nice crunch and enhance the flavor. For a more indulgent treat, swirl in some chocolate chips or a cream cheese filling to the batter before baking.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For vegan versions, replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and use plant-based butter and yogurt. You can opt for coconut sugar or agave syrup for sugar alternatives. It’s easy to adapt this Strawberry Skillet Cake to accommodate various dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If the dish isn’t turning out as expected, check a few factors. Ensure your baking powder hasn’t expired, as it is crucial for the cake to rise. If your cake didn’t bake through, it might need more time in the oven. An underbaked cake will be dense and won’t hold together well. Always check with a toothpick to confirm its doneness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Strawberry Skillet Cake ahead of time. It holds well in the refrigerator for a couple of days. If you are preparing for an event, bake it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the container.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can substitute various ingredients based on availability. For instance, in place of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt, which carries a similar consistency and tang. Instead of granulated sugar, try coconut sugar or honey for a more natural sweetener. If you have egg allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using a flaxseed meal mixed with water to create a flax egg as a substitute. The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to experiment with what you have on hand.

In conclusion, Strawberry Skillet Cake is a wonderful dessert that brings together simple ingredients and bright flavors. It’s approachable for bakers of any skill level and can easily be customized to match personal tastes or dietary needs. With its inviting aroma and delightful taste, this cake is sure to earn a coveted place in your recipe collection. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat!

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