Kick off your summer baking with this berrylicious strawberry cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for picnics, parties, or just because, this cake combines juicy strawberries with a fluffy, moist base for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor that’s both vibrant and comforting.
- Using buttermilk in the batter ensures the cake is incredibly moist and tender.
- A simple strawberry reduction swirled into the batter adds bursts of berry goodness in every bite.
- The cake is topped with a light whipped cream frosting, making it not too sweet but perfectly indulgent.
- It’s versatile! Enjoy it as is or dress it up with additional berries and mint for a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of diced strawberries and water over medium heat. Cook until the strawberries break down into a thick sauce, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Alternately add the flour and buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour, mixing just until combined.
Swirl in the Strawberry Sauce
Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop half the strawberry sauce over the batter and swirl with a knife. Repeat with the remaining batter and sauce.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over the cooled cake and garnish with remaining strawberries.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more intense strawberry flavor, consider adding a few drops of strawberry extract to the batter. If you’re short on time, a store-bought strawberry jam can substitute for the homemade reduction, though the flavor will be slightly different. To ensure your whipped cream frosting holds up, chill your bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can be used in place of heavy whipping cream, just be sure to chill it overnight first.
Recipe Variations
- Try using raspberries or blackberries instead of strawberries for a different berry flavor.
- Add a layer of lemon curd between the cake and whipped cream for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolate-strawberry combo.
- Use a cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream for a richer topping.
- Make it a layer cake by doubling the recipe and stacking two cakes with frosting in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in place of fresh. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before making the reduction to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The whipped cream frosting may start to deflate after the first day, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for the best results.
Summary
This berrylicious strawberry cake is a must-try for any summer occasion. With its moist texture, vibrant strawberry flavor, and light whipped cream topping, it’s a dessert that’s sure to delight. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different berries or toppings to suit your taste.
