Strawberry Layer Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry layer cake is a delightful balance of flavor and texture. The fluffy, moist cake layers are complemented by a creamy, tangy frosting made with real strawberries. It’s a fresh take on a classic dessert that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh fruit and soft cake makes it a refreshing choice for warm-weather gatherings or any time you want a sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, mashed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the mashed strawberries.

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once the cakes are cooled, frost with your choice of frosting (strawberry buttercream or cream cheese frosting work well) and garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25-30 minutes

• Cooling time: 1 hour

Variations

• Frosting options: You can switch up the frosting to suit your taste—cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or a rich buttercream all pair wonderfully with this cake.

• Add-ins: Try mixing in some mini chocolate chips or chopped strawberries into the cake batter for an extra flavor boost.

• Cake flour: For an even lighter, more delicate cake, substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour.

• Strawberry puree: If you prefer a stronger strawberry flavor, you can use a strawberry puree in the frosting or cake batter instead of mashed strawberries.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap) for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.

• Reheating: If you want to enjoy the cake slightly warm, you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake layers a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost just before serving.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained.

How can I make the frosting extra strawberry-flavored?

To intensify the strawberry flavor in the frosting, you can use a bit of strawberry puree or freeze-dried strawberry powder.

Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a different fruit-flavored layer cake.

How long do the leftovers last?

Leftover cake will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days if refrigerated.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is a 1:1 replacement.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Can I add a filling inside the layers?

Absolutely! You can add a strawberry jam or whipped cream filling between the layers for extra flavor and richness.

How do I prevent my cake from drying out?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, and avoid overbaking. Also, letting the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it helps retain moisture.

Can I use dairy-free ingredients in this cake?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy butter and milk for a dairy-free version of this strawberry layer cake.

Conclusion

This strawberry layer cake is sure to be a hit whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself. With its fresh strawberry flavor, tender cake, and creamy frosting, it brings a refreshing sweetness to any gathering. It’s simple to make yet impressive to serve, and it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences. Enjoy every bite!