Introduction to Homemade Strawberry Cake
There's something uniquely delightful about Homemade Strawberry Cake. It’s not just a dessert; it's a childhood memory for many of us. The vibrant pink hue, coupled with the rich flavor of fresh strawberries, makes this cake a delightful addition to any celebration or a comforting treat after a long workday.
Why Homemade Strawberry Cake is a Favorite Among Young Professionals
For young professionals juggling demanding careers, finding the time to unwind in the kitchen can feel daunting. This cake, however, strikes the perfect balance between being impressively delicious and surprisingly simple to make. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an accessible recipe that transforms fresh strawberries into something extraordinary—perfect for a weekend baking session or to impress your friends during a gathering.
Moreover, studies suggest that cooking can be therapeutic. Engaging in the act of mixing and baking not only provides a creative outlet but also creates an opportunity to savor the sweet rewards afterward. You'll find that this cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a moment of relaxation, allowing you to connect with your culinary side while enjoying good food.
Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started on creating this irresistible Homemade Strawberry Cake!
Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Cake
When it comes to crafting the perfect Homemade Strawberry Cake, the right ingredients are key to achieving a moist and flavorful dessert. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the cake and its delightful frosting.
Essential Ingredients for the Cake
To create a luscious and vibrant cake, gather the following essentials:
- Fresh Strawberries: 1 pound of ripe strawberries provides that fresh, fruity flavor.
- Cake Flour: Using 2 and ½ cups ensures a light and tender crumb.
- Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup, softened to enhance creaminess.
- Egg Whites: 5 large ones will help the cake rise beautifully.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Use ⅓ cup for added moisture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: A must-have for depth of flavor.
- Whole Milk: ½ cup at room temperature ensures good mixing.
Key Ingredients for the Frosting
For that luscious frosting that complements your cake perfectly, stock up on these key ingredients:
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened, which adds rich creaminess.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: 1 cup, ground into powder for a burst of strawberry flavor without extra moisture.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: 3 cups for that perfect sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened, gives a smooth texture.
By using these quality ingredients, your Homemade Strawberry Cake will not only taste amazing but will also look stunning!
Step-by-step Preparation of Homemade Strawberry Cake
Making a delectable homemade strawberry cake is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you'll have a beautiful, delicious cake that will impress friends and family.
Make the reduced strawberry puree
Start by creating your reduced strawberry puree. This is crucial for infusing your cake with that fresh strawberry flavor we all love! In a blender, puree about 1 pound of fresh strawberries until smooth. Transfer this puree to a small saucepan and simmer on medium-low heat for about 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reduces to ½ cup. This concentrated flavor is what makes this homemade strawberry cake unique. Allow it to cool completely before using it in the cake batter.
Preheat and prepare the cake pans
While your strawberry puree is cooling, preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. Greasing the parchment ensures that your cakes won’t stick, making for a smooth release once they’re baked. For more tips on using parchment paper effectively, you can check out this helpful guide on baking with parchment paper.
Combine dry ingredients for the cake
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This mixture sets the foundation for your cake’s texture and helps it rise beautifully.
Cream the butter and sugar
Next up, take a large mixing bowl and add ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter along with 1 ¾ cups of granulated sugar. Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat these ingredients together at medium-high speed until the mixture becomes light and creamy—about three minutes should do the trick!
Mix in wet ingredients
This step is where your cake starts to come together. Add in the egg whites, sour cream, and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until well combined. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients from the earlier step, followed by the reduced strawberry puree and milk. Be cautious not to overmix—just blend until you see no dry flour!
Bake the cakes and let cool
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for about 24-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and do the toothpick test to check for doneness. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for an hour before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the strawberry cream cheese frosting
For the frosting, blend freeze-dried strawberries into a powder and combine them with a mix of cream cheese and butter. After incorporating powdered sugar, vanilla, and a dash of milk, whip it until creamy. Let the frosting chill in the fridge for about an hour before using—it makes it easier to work with!
Assemble and frost the layers
Finally, it’s time to assemble your homemade strawberry cake. Level the tops of the cooled cakes and spread a layer of frosting between them. Coat the top and sides with a crumb coat, refrigerate until set, and then layer on the remaining frosting for a beautiful finish.
There you have it—a step-by-step guide to creating a stunning homemade strawberry cake that’s sure to impress!
Variations on Homemade Strawberry Cake
Gluten-free Strawberry Cake
If you're looking for a gluten-free twist on your beloved Homemade Strawberry Cake, you can easily substitute the cake flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend. Most blends already contain a mix of necessary binders, so you won’t miss the wheat at all! Just ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delightful cake that everyone can enjoy! A great resource for gluten-free baking is King Arthur Baking.
Strawberry Cake with a Twist
To surprise your taste buds, consider adding a unique twist to your Homemade Strawberry Cake. You can incorporate chocolate by folding in cocoa powder or chunks of dark chocolate into the batter for a rich flavor. Alternatively, a zingy lemon variation pairs beautifully with strawberries — simply add fresh lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice to elevate the freshness of the cake. Both options will deliver a scrumptious result that’s sure to impress!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for a light and fluffy Homemade Strawberry Cake. When butter, eggs, and milk are at the same temperature, they blend together more smoothly, creating a better emulsion in your batter. For optimal results, take your ingredients out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking. This simple tip can elevate the texture of your cake significantly!
How to Properly Store Leftover Cake
To keep your strawberry cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge to maintain its moisture, where it can last for up to five days. For the best flavor, allow it to sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving again. This practice ensures your cake remains delicious and perfect for your next sweet moment.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Perfect pairings with the cake
A slice of Homemade Strawberry Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- Fresh whipped cream: A light touch of whipped cream adds richness without overpowering the cake’s natural flavor.
- Ice cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream complements the fruity notes perfectly.
- Berries: Additional fresh strawberries or mixed berries can enhance the visual appeal while adding a burst of flavor.
To drink, refreshing options like iced tea or a sparkling lemonade can enhance your dessert experience.
Creative ways to serve the cake
Elevate your presentation by trying these creative serving ideas:
- Layered dessert cups: Crumble cake layers in cups with whipped cream and strawberries for an elegant treat.
- Mini cakes: Bake in muffin tins for delightful mini versions, perfect for gatherings or parties.
- Decorative garnishes: Top slices with edible flowers or mint leaves for a stunning visual.
These tips will make your Homemade Strawberry Cake not only delicious but also a showstopper at any gathering! For more ideas, check out this article on dessert pairings for extra inspiration.
Time Breakdown for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Creating the perfect Homemade Strawberry Cake is a delightful experience, and understanding the time needed can make the process smoother. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Preparation Time
Expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes on preparation. This includes making the strawberry puree, batter, and frosting components.
Cooking Time
The baking time is around 25 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on the cakes to ensure they don’t overbake.
Cooling and Assembly Time
Set aside at least 4 hours for cooling the cakes completely and assembling your delicious masterpiece. Patience here is key — it helps to achieve a beautifully frosted cake.
Ready to dive into the details? Let’s bring that homemade cake to life! For expert tips on assembling a layer cake, check out this guide.
Nutritional Facts for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Calories
A slice of Homemade Strawberry Cake contains approximately 350 calories, making it a delightful treat for those special occasions without feeling too indulgent.
Sugar Content
This cake is sweetened with about 23 grams of sugar per slice. The natural sweetness from fresh strawberries adds a lovely flavor, complementing the cake without overwhelming it.
Fats
With around 15 grams of fat per slice, primarily from butter and cream cheese in the frosting, this cake strikes a balance between rich and light. It's perfect for celebrating life's moments while enjoying a delicious dessert.
For more insights on baking healthier cakes, visit the American Heart Association and discover smart tips for creating indulgent yet mindful desserts!
FAQs about Homemade Strawberry Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh strawberries bring a beautiful flavor and moisture to your Homemade Strawberry Cake, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Just remember to thaw them first, as using them straight from the freezer might prolong the cooking process for the puree.
What can I substitute for cake flour?
If you can’t find cake flour, don’t worry! You can easily make a substitute by combining all-purpose flour with cornstarch. For every cup of cake flour needed, use 1 cup of all-purpose flour and remove 2 tablespoons. Replace that with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help you achieve a lighter texture similar to cake flour.
How long will leftover cake last in the fridge?
Your delicious cake can stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge! Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain its flavor and moisture. For the best taste, take it out about 2 hours before serving to let it come back to room temperature. Enjoy your sweet creations!
Conclusion on Homemade Strawberry Cake
Baking your own Homemade Strawberry Cake offers the pure joy of transforming simple ingredients into something delightful. As you slice into this tender cake, filled with fresh strawberry flavor, you'll realize that sharing such treats with friends and family creates lasting memories. So gather your loved ones and indulge!
For more cake recipes and baking tips, check out resources like the Joy of Baking or Serious Eats. Happy baking!
Homemade Strawberry Cake
Equipment
- blender
- Food Processor
- 9-inch Round Cake Pans
- Cooling Rack
- Mixer
- parchment paper
- spatula
- Bench Scraper
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 1 pound fresh strawberries rinsed and hulled
Cake
- 2.5 cups cake flour spooned & leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1.75 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large egg whites at room temperature
- 0.33 cup full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup whole milk at room temperature
- 0.5 cup reduced strawberry puree (from step 1)
- 1-2 drops red or pink food coloring optional
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Make the reduced strawberry puree first, and let cool: In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries. You should have a little over 1 cup (about 270g). Transfer the puree to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until it’s reduced to ½ cup (about 135g). This usually takes around 25–35 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper.
- Make the cake: In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg whites and beat on high speed until combined. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Add the dry ingredients and, with the mixer running on low, slowly pour in the milk and beat until just combined.
- Whisk in the room-temperature reduced strawberry puree and food coloring (if using). Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 24–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans set on a cooling rack for 1 hour.
Frosting and Assembling
- Make the frosting: In a blender or food processor, process the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth. Add the confectioners’ sugar, strawberry powder, milk, and vanilla. Beat until combined and creamy.
- Assemble and frost: Level the cakes by slicing a thin layer off the tops to create a flat surface. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand. Spread ¾–1 cup of frosting on top. Top with the second layer, upside down, and spread 1 cup of frosting all over to make a crumb coat. Refrigerate until the crumb coat sets, about 20 minutes.
- Cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Leave a Reply