The Best Homemade Strawberry Cake Recipe To Try!
We all know that Strawberries taste great because they are sweet and fresh. And when you mix that with the soft, fluffy feel of a homemade cake, you have a treat that will definitely stand out! You can use this strawberry cake recipe to make treats all spring and summer long. It's both beautiful and tasty, with a naturally pink color from fresh strawberry purée and a tangy, citrusy filling.
This cake is the perfect highlight for a family picnic, a birthday party, or a fun treat on the weekend. So are you ready to make a cake that tastes like summer? Now, let's get into it!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake Recipe
- Fresh & Natural: Real strawberry purée gives the cake its vibrant flavor and color. No artificial flavors here!
- Soft & Moist: Thanks to the combination of yogurt, milk, and butter, each bite melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Customize: You can experiment with fillings, frostings, or even make it into cupcakes.
- Perfect for Celebrations: It’s beautiful, flavorful, and pairs well with seasonal fruits for decoration.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1-3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/3 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberry purée
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 250g powdered sugar
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
How to Make Strawberry Cake?
Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking. This step ensures your cakes come out cleanly for perfect layers.
Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. This helps keep the cake light and fluffy.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should appear pale and fluffy—this step is key for a tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated, giving the batter a rich texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Incorporate the Strawberry Purée
Gently fold in the fresh strawberry purée until evenly distributed. This is where the cake gets its signature fruity flavor and natural pink hue.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 24-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
Making the Glaze
Step 8: Sift the Sugar
Sift the powdered sugar into a bowl to remove lumps and ensure a smooth glaze.
Step 9: Beat the Egg White
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white. Gradually add the sugar, beating constantly to create a smooth, thick mixture.
Step 10: Add Lemon Juice
Add the lemon juice and continue whisking. This adds a tangy note to balance the sweetness and ensures a creamy, glossy consistency.
Assembling the Cake
Step 11: Decorate the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream or frosting, then add fresh strawberries if desired. Place the second layer on top and pour the glaze over the cake. Let it drip down the sides for a rustic look.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. Slice and serve to enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Zulay's Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Cake
- Fresh, ripe strawberries yield the best flavor and color for this cake. Frozen strawberries work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
- Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- While the glaze is delightful, cream cheese frosting or whipped cream can elevate the cake even more.
Strawberry Cake Customizations You’ll Love
- Cupcake Version: Divide the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Layered Perfection: Add a layer of strawberry jam or cream cheese frosting between the layers for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute the milk and yogurt with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Zulay's Final Thoughts
This strawberry cake recipe is everything you need for a show-stopping dessert. It’s light, fluffy, and packed with natural strawberry flavor, making it perfect for any celebration or just because. Once you try it, you’ll see why it deserves a spot in your favorite recipes list!
Are you ready to bake your masterpiece? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag @ZulayKitchen in your photos!
Share the recipe with your friends and spread the joy of baking. Here’s to creating sweet memories, one slice at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cake
Can I use store-bought strawberry purée?
Yes, but homemade purée has a fresher taste and ensures no added sugar or artificial flavors.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. But make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.