Strawberry cake is a dessert that perfectly captures the taste of summer. Light, fruity, and filled with fresh berry goodness, it’s the kind of cake that delights at birthdays, brunches, or simply as a refreshing treat on a warm afternoon. Unlike artificial strawberry cakes, this recipe focuses on the natural sweetness of real strawberries, giving you a moist cake packed with authentic flavor.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a fresh strawberry cake that’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with fruit flavor.
Why Strawberry Cake Stands Out
Strawberry cake has a unique charm. Unlike heavy chocolate or spice cakes, it feels light and refreshing. Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and a bright pink color that makes the cake visually appealing. It’s a dessert that brings both elegance and comfort to the table.
Ingredients for Fresh Strawberry Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – base for structure.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – for rising.
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – richness and moisture.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – keeps the cake extra soft.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – for sweetness.
- 4 large eggs – bind ingredients.
- 1 cup fresh strawberry purée – the heart of the flavor.
- ½ cup whole milk or buttermilk – adds tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – enhances flavor.
- Optional: a few drops of natural red food coloring – for a deeper pink color.
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Purée
Before you start, prepare the strawberry purée:
- Wash and hull 2 cups of fresh strawberries.
- Blend until smooth.
- Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Let it cool completely before adding to the batter.
This step intensifies the strawberry flavor and prevents excess liquid from affecting the cake’s texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Heat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Strawberry Purée
Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by the cooled strawberry purée and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake the Cake
Divide batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup strawberry purée (or freeze-dried strawberry powder)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar.
- Mix in strawberry purée and vanilla until creamy.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cake
- Use fresh strawberries: They provide the best flavor.
- Cook down the purée: Prevents a watery batter.
- Room-temperature ingredients: Ensure smooth mixing.
- Chill before serving: Strawberry cake tastes even better when slightly chilled.
Variations to Try
- Strawberry Shortcake Style: Layer with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
- Strawberry Lemon Cake: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
- Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Frost with chocolate ganache instead of cream cheese.
- Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake: Replace flour with a gluten-free blend.
Why Everyone Loves Strawberry Cake
Strawberry cake brings a natural sweetness that feels light yet indulgent. Its fruity flavor makes it a favorite during spring and summer, while its colorful appearance makes it a showstopper on any dessert table.
Final Thoughts
A homemade strawberry cake with real fruit flavor is a dessert that combines freshness, sweetness, and beauty in every slice. By using fresh strawberries and simple techniques, you can create a cake that tastes just as good as it looks.
So, grab some ripe strawberries and enjoy baking a cake that’s as refreshing as it is delicious!