Name: Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cake:; 3 cups cake flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1¾ cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 1¼ cups milk; 2 tsp vanilla extract; For Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:; 3 cups heavy cream; 1 cup powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 1½ lb strawberries; strawberries

Fresh strawberry cake is a delightful treat, perfect for celebrating special occasions or just indulging in a delicious dessert. The combination of a soft, fluffy cake with a rich strawberry cream cheese whipped cream makes this cake truly irresistible.

Photos of Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Cake flour is finer than all-purpose flour and helps create a lighter texture. Heavy cream is essential for the whipped cream topping, and cream cheese adds richness to the frosting. Make sure to pick up fresh strawberries for the most vibrant flavor.

Ingredients For Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe

Cake flour: A finely milled flour that contributes to a soft and tender cake texture.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors in the cake.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter.

Eggs: Provides structure and stability to the cake.

Egg yolks: Adds extra richness and a tender crumb.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to both the cake and the frosting.

Heavy cream: Used to make the fluffy whipped cream topping.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and stabilizes it.

Cream cheese: Adds a tangy richness to the frosting.

Strawberries: Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and flavor to the frosting and as a topping.

One reader, Hertha Hoover says:

This fresh strawberry cake recipe is a delight! The cake is moist and fluffy, and the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a hit at every gathering and so easy to make. Highly recommend!

Hertha Hoover

Techniques Required for Making Fresh Strawberry Cake

How to preheat an oven: Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the cake pans inside. How to butter and line cake pans: Spread butter evenly on the inside surfaces of the cake pans, place a round piece of parchment paper on the bottom, butter the parchment paper, and lightly dust the pans with flour, shaking out the excess. How to sift flour: Use a sifter or fine mesh strainer to aerate the flour by passing it through the mesh, which helps to remove lumps and ensures a smooth batter. How to whip butter and sugar: Use an electric stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, ensuring even mixing by occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl. How to mix in eggs and egg yolks: Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. How to alternate adding flour and milk: Add one-third of the flour mixture to the butter and egg mixture, mix until just combined, then add half of the milk, mix again, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated. How to test cake doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done baking. How to cool cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes, run a knife around the edges to loosen them, then invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely. How to whip heavy cream: Use an electric stand mixer with a whisk attachment to beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. How to whip cream cheese: Use an electric stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and fluffy. How to fold whipped cream: Gently combine the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture by using a spatula to fold the ingredients together, ensuring a light and airy texture.

How To Make Fresh Strawberry Cake

A light and sweet combo certain to take you to new heights, serve this homemade fresh strawberry cake for an upgraded dessert on special occasions!

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Cool Time: 3 hours

Total: 4 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

3cupscake flour
1tbspbaking powder
½tspsalt
1cupunsalted butter,softened
1¾cupgranulated sugar
3large eggs
2large egg yolks
1¼cupsmilk,anything but skim
2tspvanilla extract

For Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:

3cupsheavy cream
1cuppowdered sugar,divided
8ozcream cheese,left at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes, until partially softened
½tspvanilla extract
1½lbstrawberries,hulled and sliced into pieces slightly under ½-inch
strawberries,sliced for decorating, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter 3 9-inch round cake pans then line bottom with a round of parchment, butter parchment and lightly dust pan with flour, shake out excess. Set pans aside.

Cake:

Sift cake flour into a medium mixing bowl. Add baking powder and salt and whisk 20 seconds. Set aside.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. The paddle attachment constantly scrapes bowl while mixing, which is important to ensure even mixing. If there is no paddle, then stop mixer occasionally throughout entire mixing process and scrape down sides and bottom of bowl.
Mix in eggs and egg yolks one at a time, adding in vanilla with last egg yolk.
Add ⅓ of the flour mixture at a time to the butter/egg mixture, alternating with ½ of the milk and mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition. Scrape down sides and bottom of bowl and gently fold batter several times.
Divide batter among prepared baking pans. Bake in preheated oven 25 to 30 minutes until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean.
Cool in pan for about 5 minutes, run knife around edges of cake to ensure they are loosened then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.
Once cool, frost with Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream. Store cake in an airtight container in refrigerator.

Topping:

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Occasionally scrape down sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Add ⅓ cup of powdered sugar and whip until stiff peaks form (Make sure they are stiff or your topping will be runny. It should get to the point where it doesn’t have a wet sheen). Scrape cream out into a separate bowl.
Add cream cheese to bowl of stand mixer, fit with paddle attachment and whip cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Mix in the remaining ⅔ cup of powdered sugar and vanilla.
Add strawberries and mix until uniform in color. Remove bowl from stand mixer, add whipped cream and fold into mixture. Frost over cooled cake.

Recipe Notes

Add a few drops of liquid red food coloring topping mixture for a better pink.

Nutrition

Calories: 745.06kcal
Fat: 47.06g
Saturated Fat: 28.25g
Trans Fat: 0.62g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
Carbohydrates: 74.46g
Fiber: 1.72g
Sugar: 45.50g
Protein: 8.51g
Cholesterol: 222.76mg
Sodium: 313.20mg
Calcium: 200.21mg
Potassium: 254.00mg
Iron: 3.29mg
Vitamin A: 486.16µg
Vitamin C: 33.70mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Your Strawberry Cake

When whipping heavy cream for the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream, make sure to chill both the bowl and the whisk attachment in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before starting. This helps the cream whip up faster and achieve stiffer peaks, ensuring a stable and fluffy topping.

Time-Saving Tips for Baking a Fresh Strawberry Cake

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients before starting to save time during the baking process.

Use room temperature dairy: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Prepare pans ahead: Butter and line the cake pans before starting to mix the batter.

Utilize a stand mixer: A stand mixer with a paddle attachment speeds up the mixing process and ensures even blending.

Chill the bowl: Chill the mixing bowl before whipping heavy cream to speed up the process and achieve stiff peaks faster.

Substitute Ingredients For Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe

cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: Use 2¾ cups of all-purpose flour plus ¼ cup of cornstarch to mimic the texture of cake flour.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed.
unsalted butter - Substitute with salted butter: Reduce the added salt in the recipe by ¼ teaspoon for every ½ cup of salted butter used.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Use an equal amount of coconut sugar for a slightly caramel-like flavor and lower glycemic index.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
large egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Use ¼ cup of blended silken tofu for each egg yolk to maintain moisture and binding properties.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Use an equal amount of almond milk for a dairy-free option.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Use half the amount of almond extract as it is stronger in flavor.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Use an equal amount of coconut cream for a dairy-free and slightly tropical flavor.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdery consistency.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Use an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a tangy and lower-fat alternative.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Use an equal amount of raspberries for a similar tart and sweet flavor profile.

Presenting Your Strawberry Cake Beautifully

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the strawberries are fresh and ripe, the cream cheese is of premium quality, and the cake flour is finely milled. This will elevate the overall taste and texture of the cake.
Create uniform cake layers: After baking, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cake layers. This ensures a stable and even structure for stacking.
Apply a crumb coat: Before adding the final layer of strawberry cream cheese whipped cream, apply a thin layer of frosting to trap any loose crumbs. Chill the cake for 15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
Frost with precision: Use an offset spatula to apply the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream evenly over the cake. Smooth the sides and top for a clean, professional finish.
Decorate with fresh strawberries: Arrange halved strawberries in a circular pattern on top of the cake. Add whole strawberries around the base for an elegant touch.
Add edible flowers: Garnish the cake with a few edible flowers, such as violets or pansies, to add a pop of color and sophistication.
Serve on a stylish cake stand: Present the cake on a sleek, modern cake stand to elevate its visual appeal. Choose a stand that complements the cake's colors and design.
Slice with a hot knife: For clean, precise slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. This prevents the frosting from sticking to the knife and ensures neat slices.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve the cake with a glass of chilled Prosecco or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The acidity of the Prosecco or the bitterness of the coffee will balance the sweetness of the cake.
Provide a detailed menu description: Include a brief description of the cake on the menu, highlighting the use of fresh strawberries and the cream cheese whipped cream. This will entice diners and set their expectations for a delightful dessert experience.

Essential Tools for Baking a Delightful Strawberry Cake

Oven: Used to bake the cake layers at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cake pans: Three 9-inch round pans to bake the cake layers evenly.
Parchment paper: Lined at the bottom of the cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.
Butter knife: Used to spread butter on the parchment paper and dust the pans with flour.
Flour sifter: Sifts the cake flour to ensure a light and airy texture.
Medium mixing bowl: Holds the sifted cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk: Used to mix the dry ingredients together.
Electric stand mixer: Equipped with a paddle attachment to mix the butter and sugar, and later the eggs and flour mixture.
Paddle attachment: Ensures even mixing of the butter and sugar, and later the eggs and flour mixture.
Measuring cups: Measures the cake flour, sugar, and milk accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures the baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract accurately.
Spatula: Scrapes down the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl to ensure even mixing.
Toothpick: Checks if the cake is baked through by inserting it into the center of the cake.
Wire racks: Cools the cake layers completely after baking.
Knife: Runs around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan.
Airtight container: Stores the cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Whisk attachment: Used in the electric stand mixer to whip the heavy cream for the frosting.
Separate bowl: Holds the whipped cream temporarily while preparing the cream cheese mixture.
Paddle attachment: Whips the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Spatula: Folds the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Knife: Used to slice strawberries for the frosting and decoration.

Storing and Freezing Your Freshly Baked Strawberry Cake

Let the strawberry cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will keep fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the cake, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cooled cake layers individually in plastic wrap, making sure to cover them tightly and remove any air pockets.
2. Place the wrapped cake layers in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and label it with the date.
3. Freeze the cake layers for up to 2 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, follow these steps:
1. Remove the cake layers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Once thawed, unwrap the cake layers and let them come to room temperature before frosting and assembling the cake.
3. If the cake layers are already frosted, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours before serving.
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream frosting, it's recommended to store and serve the cake cold from the refrigerator.
If you have any leftover frosted cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream frosting may start to separate and become watery after that time.

Interesting Trivia About Strawberry Cake

A fun fact about this fresh strawberry cake recipe is that it uses cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Cake flour has a lower protein content, which results in a finer, softer crumb, making the cake extra tender and fluffy.

Is Making Fresh Strawberry Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this fresh strawberry cake, it's essential to consider the price of strawberries, cream cheese, and heavy cream. These ingredients can be pricey, especially out of season. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30. Given the delightful taste and the joy it brings, I'd rate this recipe a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. While it's not the cheapest dessert, the quality and flavor make it a worthwhile occasional treat.

Is Fresh Strawberry Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This fresh strawberry cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The cake itself is high in refined carbohydrates from the cake flour and sugar, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes and weight gain.
The significant amount of butter used in the cake and the cream cheese in the frosting add saturated fat to the recipe.
The heavy cream in the frosting also increases the overall calorie and fat content of the cake.

However, the inclusion of fresh strawberries does provide some nutritional benefits, such as vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the cake flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and explore using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Swap out some of the butter for healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to maintain moisture while reducing saturated fat.
Use a lighter frosting option, such as a whipped cream cheese frosting made with reduced-fat cream cheese and less sugar, or opt for a fresh strawberry compote as a topping instead.
Increase the amount of fresh strawberries used in the recipe to boost the nutritional value and natural sweetness of the cake.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Strawberry Cake Recipe

This fresh strawberry cake recipe is a delightful blend of moist, tender cake layers and a luscious strawberry cream cheese whipped cream. The use of cake flour ensures a light texture, while the alternating addition of dry and wet ingredients promotes even mixing. The cream cheese in the frosting adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. However, consider macerating the strawberries for the frosting to intensify their flavor. Overall, this recipe promises a visually stunning and deliciously satisfying dessert, perfect for any celebration.

Enhance Your Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Peach Salad: Imagine the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled peaches mingling with fresh arugula, creamy goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This vibrant salad will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fresh strawberry cake.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a zesty lemon herb blend will provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake. The bright citrus notes will cleanse your palate and prepare you for another delightful bite of dessert.

Minted Pea Soup: A chilled minted pea soup offers a light and refreshing starter. The subtle sweetness of peas combined with the coolness of mint will harmonize beautifully with the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream topping on the cake.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Crisp asparagus spears wrapped in salty prosciutto and roasted to perfection will add a touch of elegance to your meal. The savory and slightly salty flavors will balance the sweetness of the strawberry cake perfectly.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant mango avocado salsa with hints of lime and cilantro will bring a tropical twist to your table. The creamy avocado and juicy mango will complement the fresh fruitiness of the cake.

Delicious Alternatives to Fresh Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Shortcake: Imagine a delightful dessert featuring layers of fluffy biscuits, fresh strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. This classic treat is perfect for summer gatherings and will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Lemon Blueberry Cake: A zesty cake that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweet burst of blueberries. Topped with a luscious lemon glaze, this cake is a refreshing treat for any occasion.

Raspberry Cream Cheese Brownies: Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies swirled with a creamy raspberry cream cheese mixture. The combination of chocolate and raspberries creates a decadent dessert that's hard to resist.

Peach Cobbler: A warm and comforting dessert featuring juicy peaches baked under a buttery, golden crust. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer treat.

Blackberry Lemon Tart: This elegant tart features a crisp pastry crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with fresh blackberries. It's a sophisticated dessert that's perfect for special occasions.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with Fresh Strawberry Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These delightful bites are then baked to golden perfection, offering a creamy and flavorful experience in every bite. The mushrooms provide a meaty texture that pairs beautifully with the rich filling, making them an irresistible start to any meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Bruschetta: Start with slices of toasted baguette, each topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. The crisp bread contrasts perfectly with the juicy tomatoes, creating a delightful texture that is both crunchy and succulent. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrusy marinade. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that is both healthy and delicious. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, bringing a burst of freshness to your table.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers, a colorful and nutritious main course. These bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a blend of spices, all topped with melted cheese. The peppers are baked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option for any meal. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a satisfying and well-rounded dinner.

Why trust this Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the rich flavors of fresh strawberries with a moist and tender cake. The strawberry cream cheese whipped cream adds a delightful tang and creaminess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. With clear, step-by-step instructions and high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and cream cheese, you can trust that this recipe will yield a delicious and impressive dessert every time.

Share your thoughts on the Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I ensure my cake layers bake evenly?

Make sure to evenly distribute the batter among the three pans. You can use a kitchen scale to weigh the batter in each pan for accuracy. Also, rotate the pans halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they have less moisture and better flavor. If you must use frozen strawberries, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the frosting too runny.

What can I do if I don't have cake flour?

If you don't have cake flour, you can make a substitute by measuring out 1 cup of all-purpose flour, removing 2 tablespoons of it, and then adding 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift this mixture together well before using.

How do I know when the whipped cream is at stiff peaks?

Stiff peaks are achieved when the whipped cream holds its shape firmly and doesn't collapse back into the bowl. It should look smooth and have a slightly matte finish, without a wet sheen.

Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them completely before frosting.