Description

This homemade strawberry cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a masterpiece bursting with real strawberry flavor in every bite. Unlike traditional shortcuts that rely on artificial flavors, this cake celebrates fresh, ripe strawberries to create vibrant pink layers swirled with natural fruit. From the tangy, homemade strawberry puree to the delicate, fluffy cake, each element is crafted to highlight the taste of summer. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or as a showstopper for any occasion, this strawberry cake will impress your guests and have them asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 1 pound fresh strawberries
• 1 ½ cups (12 oz.) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large egg whites
• 1 cup milk
• 3 ½ cups (14 oz.) cake flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• For the Strawberry Glaze:
• Strawberry puree (reserved from 1 pound of berries)
• ¼ cup strawberry juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• Optional Frostings:
• Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup strawberry puree
• Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 1 (8 oz.) block cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup strawberry puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

1. Prepare strawberry puree by washing and hulling 1 pound of strawberries, slicing them into quarters, and reserving any juice.
2. In a saucepan, combine strawberries with ½ cup sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat over medium, stirring often, until softened. Lightly mash with a fork.
4. Simmer uncovered for 15-25 minutes until thickened. Blend for a smoother texture if desired. Let cool.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare two 8-inch cake pans with grease and parchment.
6. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter for 2 minutes. Gradually add sugar and beat until light.
7. Mix in vanilla and almond extracts, then add egg whites one at a time.
8. In another bowl, whisk cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
9. On low speed, alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
10. Fold in ½ cup cooled strawberry puree for a marble effect.
11. Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on wire racks.
12. Trim cake tops if needed for even layers.
13. Place the bottom layer cut-side up on a platter, brush with strawberry glaze, and spread frosting or whipped cream on top.
14. Add a dollop of strawberry puree, then repeat with remaining layers, glazing and frosting each.
15. Apply a thin crumb coat, chill for 30 minutes, then frost with a final layer and garnish with fresh strawberries.

Tips and Conclusion

For a bakery-worthy touch, use a piping bag to add decorative swirls or rosettes of frosting around the edges. This cake pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling rosé or a hot cup of tea. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days—if there are any!

This homemade strawberry cake is a labor of love, but the vibrant flavor and tender, moist crumb are more than worth the effort. With its fresh strawberry puree and customizable frosting options, this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love for strawberries, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Ready for more inspiration? Check out our other crowd-pleasing cake recipes and desserts to sweeten your day! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us—we love seeing your culinary masterpieces! 🍓