Easy Strawberry Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect Strawberry Cake Recipe, this one is packed with fresh strawberry flavor, a moist texture, and a rich homemade frosting that makes every bite irresistible. This cake stands out because it uses real strawberries, giving it a naturally sweet and tangy taste without relying on artificial flavors. The soft, fluffy layers combined with a luscious strawberry-infused frosting make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer party, or simply craving a fruity dessert, this cake is a showstopper that will impress your guests.

Strawberry Cake Recipe

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake.
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder to enhance the cake’s texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps with tenderness.
• 4 large eggs – Adds structure and helps with binding ingredients.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the natural strawberry flavor.
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk or buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness.
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) fresh strawberry puree – Gives the cake its fresh strawberry flavor and a natural pink hue.

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• ½ cup (120ml) strawberry puree or strawberry jam – Infuses the frosting with fresh strawberry flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – Helps adjust the frosting’s consistency for easy spreading.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh strawberries (whole or sliced) – For decorating the cake.
• Whipped cream – Adds an extra layer of richness.
• White or dark chocolate shavings – For a decorative touch.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Wash and hull the strawberries – Remove the green tops and rinse the berries thoroughly.
2. Make the strawberry puree – Blend the strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can reduce the puree by simmering it in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens (about 10–15 minutes). Allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (or 9-inch) round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk or buttermilk in two parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
6. Fold in the strawberry puree: Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the batter until fully incorporated. This will give the cake its signature strawberry flavor and slight pink hue.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool the cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Frosting

1. Beat the butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to prevent mess.
3. Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla: Add the cooled strawberry puree (or strawberry jam) and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fully combined.
4. Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cake layers (if needed): Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cakes for an even surface.
2. Frost the first layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of strawberry frosting over the top.
3. Add the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
4. Frost the entire cake: Spread frosting over the top and sides, using a spatula to smooth it out.
5. Decorate as desired: Garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for a beautiful finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the cake sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set.
• Serve at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days

Strawberry Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Cake Recipe is a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert made with real strawberry puree for a naturally sweet taste and beautiful pink hue. The cake is paired with a rich and creamy homemade strawberry frosting, making it perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or any special occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this cake delivers fresh, fruity goodness in every bite. Garnish with fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation and enjoy a homemade treat that’s sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, European

Servings 12 People

Calories 430 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand Mixer) – For creaming butter and sugar and mixing the batter.
• Blender or Food Processor – To puree the strawberries.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sifter – To sift flour for a lighter texture (optional but recommended).
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl.
• Cake Pans (8-inch or 9-inch round pans) – To bake the cake layers.
• Parchment Paper – For lining the cake pans to prevent sticking.
• Wire Rack – To cool the cake layers evenly.
• Serrated Knife – To level the cake layers if needed.
• Offset Spatula or Cake Spreader – For frosting the cake smoothly.
• Cake Turntable (Optional) – For easy and even frosting application.

Ingredients

  

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) fresh strawberry puree (made from about 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon strawberry extract (optional, for extra strawberry flavor)
• A few drops of pink or red food coloring (optional)

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) strawberry puree (reduced for thicker consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2–3 tablespoons (30–45ml) heavy cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh strawberry slices
• White chocolate shavings
• Whipped cream

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Strawberry Puree

  Wash and hull fresh strawberries, then blend them into a smooth puree.

  Transfer 1 ½ cups of puree to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1 cup. This intensifies the flavor.

  Let the puree cool completely before using.
• Prepare the Cake Batter

  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

  In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  Stir in the cooled strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract (if using).

  Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk + sour cream, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Bake the Cake

  Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

  Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Make the Strawberry Frosting

  Beat butter in a bowl until creamy.

  Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by the reduced strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt.

  Add heavy cream (1 tablespoon at a time) and mix until smooth and fluffy.
• Assemble and Decorate

  If needed, trim the cake layers for an even surface.

  Spread a layer of frosting on the first cake layer, then place the second cake on top.

  Cover the cake with the remaining frosting and smooth it out with a spatula.

  Garnish with fresh strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.

  Chill for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Notes

1. Use Fresh Strawberries:
   • Fresh strawberries give the best natural flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before blending.
2. Reducing the Strawberry Puree is Essential:
   • Simmering the strawberry puree concentrates the flavor and prevents excess moisture in the cake.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients:
   • Butter, eggs, milk, and sour cream should be at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.
4. Do Not Overmix the Batter:
   • Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined.
5. Chill the Cake Before Slicing:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before cutting to help the frosting set and improve texture.
6. Storage Tips:
   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
   • For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Keyword Strawberry Cake Recipe

Tips for the Best Strawberry Cake

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries

• Fresh strawberries give the best natural flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen ones—just thaw and drain them well before pureeing.

2. Enhance the Strawberry Flavor

• Reducing the strawberry puree by simmering it removes excess water and intensifies the flavor. This helps avoid a soggy cake while keeping the taste rich.
• If you want an even stronger strawberry taste, consider adding a small amount of strawberry extract.

3. Room Temperature Ingredients Matter

• Ensure butter, eggs, and milk (or buttermilk) are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter mix evenly and creates a smoother texture.

4. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

5. Prevent a Dry Cake

• If you accidentally overbake the cake, brush the layers with a simple syrup (sugar and water mixture) before frosting to add moisture.

6. Get Perfectly Even Cake Layers

• Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between cake pans.
• Tap the filled cake pans gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
• Bake both layers on the same rack to ensure even cooking.

7. Chill the Cake Before Frosting

• For easier frosting application, chill the cake layers in the fridge for 30 minutes before frosting. This reduces crumbs and helps the frosting spread smoothly.

8. Customize Your Cake

• Add a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for extra fruity flavor.
• Incorporate a bit of lemon zest into the batter for a slight citrusy kick.
• Try a cream cheese strawberry frosting for a tangy twist.

9. Best Way to Store the Cake

• If unfrosted, wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• If frosted, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

10. Make It a Showstopper!

• Garnish with whole or sliced strawberries on top.
• Add white chocolate shavings or sprinkles for extra decoration.
• Pipe decorative frosting swirls for a bakery-style finish.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cake Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy the sweet and refreshing taste of fresh strawberries in a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert. With its vibrant pink layers and rich homemade strawberry frosting, it’s a beautiful and delicious treat that stands out on any dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its fresh, natural flavors.

The combination of real strawberries, a tender crumb, and creamy frosting makes this cake a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Plus, with simple tips and customization options, you can make it your own by adding layers of jam, a citrus twist, or decorative garnishes. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best taste, and enjoy a slice of this delightful homemade strawberry cake!

Katelyn Williams

Hi, I’m Katelyn Williams, the expert behind Ninjacreamiicecream.com. With a deep passion for creating delectable ice cream recipes, I’m here to share my love for all things ice cream. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to perfecting the art of ice cream making. From classic flavors to innovative creations, my goal is to inspire you to make delicious and creamy treats at home effortlessly. Join me for the best recipes, tips, and techniques to elevate your ice cream game and indulge in delightful frozen desserts!