In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make the perfect strawberry cake, using fresh strawberries to enhance both the flavor and the texture. We’ll also explore variations, tips for presentation, and how to store this delightful dessert. Plus, we’ll link to some of our favorite pairings for a complete dessert experience!
Why Fresh Strawberries Make All the Difference
Using fresh strawberries in your cake adds a burst of natural sweetness and a juicy texture that simply can’t be replicated with artificial flavors or frozen fruit. Fresh strawberries also bring a vibrant color to the cake, making it as beautiful as it is tasty. The key to the best strawberry cake is to use ripe, seasonal strawberries for maximum flavor.
If you’re someone who loves fruit-based desserts, like our Peach Cobbler with Cake Mix, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The natural sweetness of the strawberries complements the light, fluffy cake, resulting in a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
Key Ingredients for Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to create this luscious Strawberry Cake:
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show, fresh strawberries bring flavor, moisture, and color to the cake. You’ll need strawberries for both the cake and the garnish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour creates the structure for the cake, giving it a tender crumb.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the cake, balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for richness and moisture.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and help the cake rise.
- Milk: Milk keeps the cake moist and adds a creamy flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor of the strawberries and adds warmth to the cake.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures that the cake rises and becomes light and fluffy.
If you enjoy fruit-forward desserts like our Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, this cake offers another way to showcase the delicious flavor of fresh strawberries.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries
Follow these steps to make the perfect Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries:
1. Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash and hull 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Slice half of them to fold into the batter and set aside the other half for garnishing the cake.
- Mash or puree ½ cup of the strawberries to add moisture to the batter.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with ¾ cup of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the mashed strawberries to create a smooth, flavorful batter.
5. Fold in the Sliced Strawberries
- Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the strawberries intact.
6. Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a single 9×13-inch pan.
- Divide the batter between the pans (or pour it into the larger pan) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Frost the Cake
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite frosting. Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with the strawberries, or you can opt for whipped cream for a lighter topping.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the cake with the reserved sliced strawberries before serving. You can add a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Variations of Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries
This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
Vegan Strawberry Cake
To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with a plant-based egg substitute and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk. The fresh strawberries will still shine through and make this cake a hit.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The strawberries will add enough moisture to keep the cake from being dry, which is a common issue in gluten-free baking.
Strawberry Lemon Cake
For a refreshing twist, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cake batter. The combination of strawberries and lemon creates a bright, citrusy flavor that is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
If you’re interested in experimenting with other fruity desserts, check out our Peach Glazed Raspberry Cream Cheese Pie, which also highlights the fresh flavors of summer fruits.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cake
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your strawberry cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: Fresh, in-season strawberries will give your cake the best flavor. Avoid using frozen strawberries as they can release too much liquid and make the cake soggy.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Frosting Options: Cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or even a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice all complement the strawberry flavor beautifully.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Presentation can elevate your strawberry cake from delicious to show-stopping. Here are a few ideas for serving and presenting your cake:
- Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top of the cake in a decorative pattern for a beautiful finish.
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream alongside a slice of strawberry cake creates a dreamy combination.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance and extra sweetness to the cake.
For another crowd-pleasing dessert option, serve this cake alongside our Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a complete meal that balances savory and sweet flavors.
Storing and Leftovers
Strawberry cake is best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how you can store any leftovers:
- Room Temperature: If your cake is unfrosted, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: If the cake is frosted or contains fresh strawberries on top, store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in a cake container to keep it fresh.
- Freeze: You can freeze the cake (without frosting) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this cake, as frozen strawberries release more liquid, which can affect the texture of the cake.
How Long Does Strawberry Cake Last?
When stored in the refrigerator, a frosted strawberry cake will last for up to 4 days. Unfrosted, it will keep for up to 2 days at room temperature.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them at room temperature. Frost the cake just before serving for the best results.
What Type of Frosting Pairs Well with Strawberry Cake?
Cream cheese frosting is a popular choice, but whipped cream or a light buttercream also works well with the flavor of fresh strawberries.
Conclusion
A Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries is a perfect dessert for any occasion, bringing the sweet, fresh flavors of strawberries into a light and tender cake. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or simply enjoying it at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. Pair it with a complementary dessert like our Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie for a nostalgic and delicious dessert spread!