A strawberry cake is one of the most refreshing desserts you can make, especially when paired with the perfect strawberry cream cheese frosting. This cake offers a light and fluffy texture with a sweet, fruity flavor that everyone loves. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this strawberry cake recipe is sure to impress.
If you want to explore more dessert options, check out Blue Ribbon Winning Apple Pie and Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese.
What Makes a Perfect Strawberry Cake?
Strawberry cake is a delicious and moist cake made with fresh strawberries or strawberry puree. It is often chosen for celebrations, summer gatherings, and birthday parties due to its bright pink color and natural sweetness. Unlike traditional vanilla or chocolate cakes, strawberry cake provides a unique flavor profile, making it a standout choice.
- Fresh strawberries are the main ingredient that gives this cake its unique flavor.
- It has a light, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with rich, creamy frostings like strawberry cream cheese frosting.
- The cake can be customized with other add-ins, such as lemon zest or even a splash of vanilla extract for added depth.
For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cake, ensure you’re using the right proportions of ingredients and baking at the correct temperature. Check out this detailed guide on Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake for tips on making fruit-infused cakes.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: A Perfect Match for Strawberry Cake
The strawberry cream cheese frosting is what makes this cake truly irresistible. The creamy, tangy frosting made with cream cheese, butter, and fresh strawberries adds a refreshing sweetness that complements the richness of the cake perfectly.
- The cream cheese base gives the frosting a smooth, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Adding fresh strawberry puree enhances the frosting with a natural fruity taste and a beautiful pink color.
- For the perfect consistency, powdered sugar is used to thicken the frosting and help it hold its shape on the cake.
If you’re interested in making other frostings with a similar texture, consider trying Chocolate Cake Icing with Cream Cheese.
Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Frosting
To make the perfect strawberry cake, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries or strawberry puree to flavor the cake.
- All-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt for structure.
- Butter, sugar, and eggs to provide moisture and richness.
- A splash of vanilla extract or lemon zest for added depth of flavor.
For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute with gluten-free flour to make this recipe more accessible.
How to Make Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
1. Preheat the Oven for Strawberry Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them or lining them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients for Strawberry Cake
In a mixing bowl, sift together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside for later use.
3. Make the Strawberry Puree for the Cake
Puree fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor. You can also use pre-made strawberry puree if you’re short on time. Make sure to strain it to remove any seeds.
4. Cream the Wet Ingredients for Strawberry Cake
In another bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients for Strawberry Cake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the strawberry puree. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
6. Bake Your Strawberry Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Frost Your Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread a layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting on the first cake layer. Place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
1. Mix the Cream Cheese and Butter
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This base will create a perfectly balanced frosting.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla to the Frosting
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until well-combined. Add a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
3. Add Strawberry Puree for Flavor
Slowly incorporate the strawberry puree into the frosting. Continue mixing until the frosting reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until the desired thickness is achieved.
Decorating Your Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- Once your cake is frosted, you can decorate with fresh strawberries on top or around the sides.
- For extra flair, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for contrast.
- Slice and serve your strawberry cake at room temperature for the best flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the strawberry cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance. Wrap the layers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature until ready to frost.
Q: How can I prevent the frosting from being too runny?
A: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted. Also, avoid overmixing the frosting, as this can cause it to lose its texture.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries for the cake?
A: Frozen strawberries work fine, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before pureeing.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute gluten-free flour in the cake recipe for a gluten-free version.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade strawberry cake with the best strawberry cream cheese frosting! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this dessert will not disappoint.