Strawberry Cake Recipe: A Delicious and Moist Treat
Introduction
Strawberry cake is a delightful dessert known for its moist, tender crumb and fresh strawberry flavor. It’s perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or just when you’re in the mood for something sweet and fruity. This cake is typically made using fresh or pureed strawberries, which give it a natural pink hue and a rich, fruity taste. Paired with a luscious strawberry frosting, this cake is a dream come true for berry lovers.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A few drops of pink food coloring (optional)
For the Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup fresh strawberry puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in the strawberry puree, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. If you want a more vibrant pink color, add a few drops of food coloring.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
11. In a mixing bowl, beat butter until smooth and creamy.
12. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
13. Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract.
14. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
15. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
16. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
17. Decorate with fresh strawberries, if desired.
History of Strawberry Cake
Strawberry cake has been a popular dessert for centuries. The use of fresh fruit in cakes dates back to the 19th century when baking techniques advanced, allowing for the creation of lighter, fluffier cakes. Traditional strawberry cakes were often made with fresh strawberries mixed into the batter or layered between sponge cakes with whipped cream. Today, the cake has evolved, with many variations including cream cheese frostings, gelatin enhancements, and even vegan adaptations.
Benefits of Strawberry Cake
• Rich in Antioxidants – Strawberries