Introduction
Indulge in a delightful homemade strawberry cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its light and fluffy texture, complemented by the sweetness of fresh strawberries and creamy whipped topping, this cake will surely impress your family and friends. Follow this simple recipe to create a fresh and delicious treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Softened butter: 1 cup
– Granulated sugar: 2 cups
– Large eggs: 4
– Vanilla extract: 1 tablespoon
– Milk: 1 cup
– All-purpose flour: 3 cups
– Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
– Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
– Fresh strawberries: 2 cups, sliced
– Whipped cream: 2 cups
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a beautiful base for your cake.
Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well mixed before adding the next. Follow this by stirring in the vanilla extract and milk until everything is smoothly combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring that the dry ingredients are well mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined, careful not to overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, place one of the cake layers on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, followed by a layer of sliced fresh strawberries. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process of adding whipped cream and strawberries.
To finish the cake, decorate the top with a final layer of whipped cream and garnish with whole or sliced strawberries as desired. Refrigerate the cake until you’re ready to serve, and enjoy this stunning dessert that’s sure to delight your guests!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs
Add the large eggs to the mixture one at a time. Ensure you mix well after each addition to fully incorporate the eggs into the batter.
Add Vanilla and Milk
Pour in the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until both are fully incorporated into the batter.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Incorporate Dry Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. This helps to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
Prepare Cake Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, using a spatula to smooth the tops.
Bake the Cakes
Place the cake pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top of this layer.
Add Strawberries
After the whipped cream, add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top.
Add Second Cake Layer
Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the strawberries and whipped cream.
Repeat Layers
Repeat the process by spreading whipped cream and adding another layer of sliced strawberries on top of the second cake layer.
Final Touch
Finish by adding a final layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with whole or sliced strawberries as desired.
Refrigerate
Refrigerate the assembled cake until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Notes
Egg Temperature
For best results, ensure that the eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the mixture. This helps achieve a smoother batter.
Strawberries
Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Make sure to wash and slice them just before assembly to maintain freshness.
Cake Storage
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, but enjoy it within a few days for optimal taste and texture.
Customization
Feel free to add additional layers or toppings such as chocolate shavings, nuts, or other berries for variation.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
This technique involves beating softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which helps the cake rise during baking.
Separating Eggs
When adding eggs to your batter, it’s important to add them one at a time. This allows for better incorporation and helps to create a stable emulsion.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet mixture. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures a uniform texture.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle during this process.
Baking and Testing for Doneness
Bake the cakes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates that the cakes are fully baked and ready to cool.
Layering the Cake
When assembling the cake, spread a layer of whipped cream and fresh strawberries between the cake layers. This not only adds flavor but also moisture to the cake.
Chilling the Cake
After assembling, refrigerate the cake until ready to serve. Chilling helps the whipped cream set and enhances the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted butter instead of softened butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just make sure to adjust the salt in the recipe if needed.
How can I tell when my cake is done baking?
Check doneness using a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is done.
What can I use instead of fresh strawberries?
You can substitute with other fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches, depending on your preference.
How do I store the cake after making it?
Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, to keep it fresh and prevent the whipped cream from melting.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake layers. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This delightful strawberry cake is a perfect way to celebrate any occasion. The combination of soft, fluffy layers, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream creates a refreshing dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it chilled for the best flavor, and enjoy every bite!
Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits
Layer crumbled pieces of the strawberry cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries in individual glasses for a fun parfait.
Strawberry Cake Pops
Crumble leftover cake and mix it with whipped cream to form balls. Dip them in melted chocolate and place them on sticks for a tasty treat.
Strawberry Ice Cream Cake
Use the cake layers as the base for an ice cream cake. Layer with your favorite strawberry ice cream and freeze until set.
Fresh Strawberry Topping
Make a fresh strawberry topping by macerating sliced strawberries in sugar. Serve it over the cake for added sweetness and texture.
Strawberry Pancakes
Transform leftover cake into pancake batter by mixing crumbled cake with a pancake mixture, then top with strawberries and whipped cream.
Berry Fruit Salad
Combine fresh strawberries with other berries, mint, and a drizzle of honey for a refreshing fruit salad that complements the cake perfectly.
