BEST EVER STRAWBERRY CAKE

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Best Ever Strawberry Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Best Ever Strawberry Cake is a vibrant, flavorful dessert made with fresh strawberries, giving it a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. Paired with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration that calls for something sweet and beautiful. It’s a showstopper dessert that tastes as amazing as it looks!

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 cup fresh strawberry puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions

  • Fresh Strawberry Slices: Garnish the top of the cake with fresh strawberry slices for decoration.
  • Strawberry Jam: Spread a thin layer of jam between cake layers for extra flavor.
  • Shredded Coconut: Sprinkle on top for added texture and sweetness.
  • Whipped Cream: Add dollops of whipped cream for an extra creamy touch.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Strawberries: Freshly pureed strawberries provide the best flavor and color. Avoid overly watery or frozen strawberries.
  2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
  3. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture.
  4. Level the Layers: Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cake layers for an even stack.
  5. Chill the Frosting: If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before spreading.

Instructions

For the Cake:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare Strawberries: Puree the strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla and almond extract (if using).
  6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
  7. Fold in Strawberry Puree: Gently fold in the strawberry puree until fully incorporated.
  8. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

For the Frosting:

  1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Strawberry Puree and Vanilla: Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

To Assemble:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
  2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
  3. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired. Chill for 20 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Description

This strawberry cake is incredibly moist, with a delightful balance of sweetness and fresh berry flavor. The strawberry cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, velvety touch that perfectly complements the cake. Its natural pink hue and fruity aroma make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices)

  • Calories: ~430
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 45g

Conclusion

The Best Ever Strawberry Cake is a celebration of fresh, juicy strawberries and creamy decadence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is bound to become a family favorite that you’ll bake again and again.

Recommendation

For an extra touch, serve slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a whole strawberry on top. Pair with a glass of sparkling lemonade or sweet tea for a refreshing, summery treat.

Enjoy

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