Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with rich cream flavors. This cake not only looks stunning but also delivers an explosion of taste in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will impress friends and family alike. With layers of fluffy sponge cake and creamy frosting adorned with fresh strawberries, this dessert is both beautiful and delicious. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. In just a few steps, you can create a show-stopping cake that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into the world of baking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cake
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Craving something different? Try this delicious recipe!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cream Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the structure of the cake; sifted flour ensures a light texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake; use high-quality sugar for better flavor.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the cake; don’t skip this ingredient.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides richness; allow it to soften before mixing for easier incorporation.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help achieve a fluffy batter.
- Milk: Whole milk adds moisture; you can substitute with almond milk if desired.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for topping and layering; they should be washed and sliced just before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round baking pans with butter or nonstick spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Layers
Once baked, remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Transfer to plates and assemble your Strawberry Cream Cake by layering whipped cream and fresh strawberries between cakes.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out this tasty dish.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh strawberries as they enhance both flavor and presentation
- Cake Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness
- Presentation Matters: Decorate with additional strawberries on top before serving for an attractive finish
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cake
This Strawberry Cream Cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Berries: They enhance the fruity flavor of the cake, adding a burst of freshness.
- Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping that complements the creamy texture of the cake.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: These refreshing beverages balance the sweetness of the dessert perfectly.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
If you love this, you’ll definitely enjoy this recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers one day in advance. Bake and cool them completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and storing in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Storing: Leftover Strawberry Cream Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to two months.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cake slightly warm, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Alternatively, microwave a slice on low power for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a cozy treat without compromising texture.
Suggestions for Strawberry Cream Cake
Choose the Right Strawberries
When making a Strawberry Cream Cake, selecting fresh and ripe strawberries is crucial. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from blemishes. Avoid using overripe or mushy strawberries, as they can make your cake soggy and unappealing. If you can, opt for organic strawberries to enhance the flavor without pesticides. Washing your strawberries thoroughly is essential to remove any dirt or residues. By choosing the right strawberries, you ensure that your cake not only looks beautiful but also tastes fantastic.
Balance the Creaminess
Achieving the perfect balance of creaminess in your Strawberry Cream Cake is key to its success. If your frosting is too heavy, it may overwhelm the delicate flavors of the strawberries. Use a combination of whipped cream and mascarpone cheese for a light yet rich texture. Be mindful of sugar levels; too much sweetness can mask strawberry flavor. Whipping the cream until it holds soft peaks will give you an airy texture that complements the fruit well. This balance will elevate your cake to a delightful dessert experience.
Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing your batter can lead to a dense Strawberry Cream Cake instead of a light and fluffy one. When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you see no streaks of flour; this helps maintain air bubbles in the batter. Use gentle folding motions when incorporating whipped cream into your mixture to keep it airy. Remember that less is more in terms of mixing; treat your batter with care for the best results.
Let It Chill Properly
Allowing your Strawberry Cream Cake to chill adequately is essential for achieving optimal flavor and texture. After assembling your cake, place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving. This chilling period allows the layers to set properly and meld together, enhancing flavors. If you skip this step, you may end up with a cake that falls apart when sliced or has a runny icing consistency. Patience pays off when it comes to enjoying this delicious creation.
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FAQs
What makes a good Strawberry Cream Cake?
A good Strawberry Cream Cake starts with high-quality ingredients—fresh strawberries, creamy frosting, and a light sponge cake base. Properly balancing sweetness and acidity enhances flavors significantly. The texture should be moist yet fluffy, allowing each bite to melt in your mouth while showcasing fresh strawberry flavor beautifully.
How do I store leftover Strawberry Cream Cake?
To store leftover Strawberry Cream Cake effectively, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Before serving leftover pieces, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to regain some moisture and flavor.
Can I use frozen strawberries for my cake?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for a Strawberry Cream Cake due to their texture and taste, frozen strawberries can work as well if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed completely and drained of excess liquid before using them in your recipe. This helps prevent making the cake soggy while still providing strawberry flavor.
How do I make my frosting stable?
To create stable frosting for your Strawberry Cream Cake, consider adding powdered sugar gradually until reaching desired consistency while whipping heavy cream or using cream cheese as part of your frosting base. Additionally, incorporating stabilizers like gelatin or cornstarch can help maintain structure during warm weather or when displaying cakes longer.
Explore more flavors with this easy and delicious recipe.
Conclusion for Strawberry Cream Cake
Creating a delightful Strawberry Cream Cake involves careful attention to detail at every step—from selecting ripe strawberries to achieving perfect balance in creaminess and texture. Avoid common pitfalls like overmixing or failing to chill adequately after assembly; these can significantly impact quality and presentation. By following these suggestions along with answering common questions regarding storage and ingredient choices, you’ll craft an impressive dessert sure to impress family and friends alike. So gather those ripe strawberries and get ready to indulge in a slice of sweet perfection!
Strawberry Cream Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with rich, creamy frosting. This stunning cake features layers of fluffy sponge cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, making it an ideal centerpiece for celebrations or a sweet treat for a cozy evening at home. With its vibrant colors and luscious flavors, this Strawberry Cream Cake will impress your family and friends. The straightforward recipe ensures that bakers of all skill levels can create this mouthwatering dessert that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Dive into the world of baking and indulge in a slice of pure bliss!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 2 cups whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round baking pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for ten minutes before transferring to wire racks. Layer with whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest into the batter.
You can substitute almond milk for whole milk if desired.
Decorate with additional strawberries on top for an eye-catching presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (109g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest into the batter. Substitute almond milk for whole milk if desired. Decorate with additional strawberries on top for an eye-catching presentation.
