Craving a delightful dessert that screams summer? I’ve got you covered with the ultimate fresh strawberry cake recipe. Bursting with the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe strawberries, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser.
Picture this: layers of moist vanilla cake enveloping luscious strawberry filling, topped with billowy whipped cream and a generous heap of fresh strawberries. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for more.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this fresh strawberry cake is sure to steal the show. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped for the cake mixture
- Additional fresh strawberries for garnish
Natural Strawberry Extract
- 1 tablespoon of natural strawberry extract for an extra boost of flavor
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Tools and Equipment
For this fresh strawberry cake recipe, you will need a few essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process and a delicious outcome.
Cake Pans
I recommend using two 9-inch round cake pans for this recipe to bake the vanilla cake layers perfectly. Ensure they are well-greased and lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the cake bakes evenly and rises well. A properly preheated oven is crucial for the success of this recipe.
Cake Rings (Optional for Layered Cake)
If you prefer a layered cake presentation, cake rings will be useful for building the strawberry-filled layers. Ensure the rings are tall enough to accommodate the cake layers and fillings.
Instructions
Get ready to create a delightful fresh strawberry cake that’s perfect for any special occasion. Follow these simple steps to make a moist and flavorful cake that will impress your guests.
Making the Strawberry Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature as per your vanilla cake recipe.
- Prepare the vanilla cake batter according to the recipe instructions, incorporating the natural strawberry extract for a burst of strawberry flavor.
- Gently fold in diced fresh strawberries to the batter for added texture and fruity essence.
Baking the Strawberry Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans to ensure even baking.
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for the specified time or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Preparing Strawberry Buttercream
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice until light and fluffy.
- Slowly incorporate the strawberry extract into the buttercream for a delightful pink hue and a fruity taste.
- Adjust the consistency of the buttercream by adding more sugar for stiffness or a bit of milk for smoothness.
- Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife for even stacking.
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of strawberry buttercream on top.
- Continue layering the cakes and buttercream, ending with a smooth coat of buttercream on the top and sides.
Make-Ahead Instructions
I always love to plan ahead when making a delicious fresh strawberry cake. These make-ahead instructions will help you organize your time and prepare components in advance for a stress-free baking experience.
Preparing Fresh Strawberry Compote
To make the fresh strawberry compote in advance, combine fresh strawberries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture until the strawberries break down and the compote thickens. Allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using it to fill your cake.
Making and Storing Strawberry Buttercream
For the strawberry buttercream, prepare the buttercream following the recipe but without adding the fresh strawberries. Once the buttercream is smooth and fluffy, transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to use, bring it to room temperature and whip it briefly before adding the fresh strawberry puree for that perfect fruity flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delectable fresh strawberry cake, there are various options to elevate the experience for yourself and your guests. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors and textures of this delightful dessert:
- Fresh Strawberry Garnish: Add a finishing touch to your fresh strawberry cake by garnishing each slice with a few fresh strawberry slices on top. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the cake but also adds a burst of extra fruity flavor.
- Whipped Cream Pairing: Serve each slice of the strawberry cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The light and airy texture of the whipped cream balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, consider serving the fresh strawberry cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold temperature of the ice cream contrasts with the warm cake, offering a delightful contrast in both temperature and taste.
- Fruit Coulis: Drizzle a homemade fruit coulis, such as raspberry or mixed berry, on the plate before placing the cake slice. The fruity sauce adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dessert, elevating its overall presentation.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: For a pop of color and a subtle minty flavor, garnish each plate with a couple of fresh mint leaves. The refreshing herbal notes of the mint provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the strawberry cake.
These serving suggestions are meant to inspire you to get creative and personalize your fresh strawberry cake presentation. Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own unique twists to make each serving a memorable culinary experience.
Storage Instructions
After enjoying this delectable fresh strawberry cake, you may have some leftovers that you want to store properly to maintain their freshness. Here are some simple steps to ensure your cake stays delicious for longer:
- Refrigeration: Once the cake has been cut, cover the exposed sections with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the cake in an airtight container or cake carrier and store it in the refrigerator. Proper refrigeration helps retain the moisture of the cake and preserves the flavors of the strawberries.
- Freezing: If you have significant portions of the cake left and want to keep it for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake slices individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Frozen fresh strawberry cake can last for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, remove the individual slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the cake’s texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Refreshing: To enhance the taste and texture of refrigerated or frozen cake slices, consider briefly microwaving them before serving. Heat the slices for a few seconds to bring out the flavors and restore a fresh-from-the-oven feel.
By following these storage instructions, you can savor the delightful flavors of your fresh strawberry cake even after the initial baking session. Proper storage techniques ensure that every slice remains as delicious as the first, allowing you to indulge in the summery goodness of strawberries anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Conclusion
Creating a fresh strawberry cake is a delightful experience that promises to impress at any gathering. With the right ingredients and techniques, this crowd-pleasing dessert can be a showstopper on special occasions. By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the make-ahead tips provided, you can easily prepare this delectable treat in advance. When it comes to storing leftover cake, proper refrigeration, freezing, and refreshing methods will help preserve its freshness and flavors for future enjoyment. Embrace the summery goodness of strawberries with each slice of this ultimate fresh strawberry cake, ensuring a burst of fruity delight in every bite.