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This Homemade Strawberry Cake is a delightful journey into fresh flavors with a creamy twist. As I tested this recipe multiple times, the aroma of strawberries and the silky texture of cream cheese frosting captured my senses. It’s everything you want in a cake, perfect for family gatherings. Don’t miss trying my Strawberry Shortcake for more berry goodness.
About Homemade Strawberry Cake
This cake combines the sweetness of fresh berries with the richness of cream cheese, a combination that delighted my whole family. Through several trials, balancing the cake’s texture was key to its perfection.
- Quick prep, fits busy schedules
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Comforting and delightful flavor
- Fun fact: Strawberries were a symbol of Venus, the goddess of love, due to their heart shape and red color.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Strawberries: Main flavor, use fresh or thawed for best taste.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure, can substitute with gluten-free blend.
- Eggs: Essential for texture, ensure they are at room temperature for best blending.
- Cream cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess to the frosting.
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your cake pans as described. The smell of strawberries and vanilla will soon fill your kitchen.
- Create a smooth strawberry puree and combine with milk and vanilla, setting the flavor stage.
- Blend the ingredients carefully, stopping once everything is just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Once baked and cooled, layer with the frosting. Let it chill to enhance the flavors before serving this lush dessert.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature for the creamiest blend.
- If your cake layers aren’t rising evenly, check oven heat consistency or use an oven thermometer.
- Add a zest of lemon for a fresh twist in summer.
- This recipe doubles effortlessly for larger gatherings.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Thaw the cake naturally in the fridge before bringing it to room temperature for the best texture. I found that storing slices individually helped preserve their beautiful shape.
What to Serve With Homemade Strawberry Cake
Pair with a light Spicy Chicken Sandwich or enjoy with my Avocado Toast with Egg for a balanced brunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my cake dense? Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for proper integration.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, thaw and drain them well for best results.
- What type of milk is best? Whole milk works best for richness but dairy-free alternatives can also be used.
- Can I substitute cream cheese? Mascarpone adds a delicate twist but use caution for sweetness levels.
- How do I frost a warm cake? Always cool first to avoid melting the frosting.
Final Thoughts
Making this Homemade Strawberry Cake is like inviting the summer sun into your kitchen. Share it with friends, savor the joy in every bite, and let me know how your version turned out!
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Homemade Strawberry Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups whole strawberries divided, fresh, or frozen and thawed, plus additional for garnish
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 cup whole milk at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature, 2 sticks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites at room temperature
- 2 large whole eggs at room temperature
Frosting Ingredients
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- 6 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree reserved from cake recipe
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Cake Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cake pans and puree strawberries. Measure puree for cake.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk milk, vanilla, and puree. Cream butter, sugar, and eggs.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Divide and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Frosting and Assembly
- Beat butter and cream cheese for frosting. Add powdered sugar and strawberry puree. Frost cooled cakes.