Strawberry Cake Homemade: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Strawberry Cake Homemade: Is there anything that screams summer quite like a slice of moist, flavorful strawberry cake? I think not! This isn’t just any cake; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant strawberries baked into a tender crumb that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Strawberry cake has a charming history, often associated with home baking and family gatherings. While its exact origins are debated, the use of fresh strawberries in cakes became increasingly popular as refrigeration and transportation improved, making these delicious berries more accessible. It’s a dessert that evokes feelings of nostalgia and simple pleasures.

What makes a strawberry cake homemade so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, the delightful burst of strawberry flavor in every bite, and the incredibly soft texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, let’s be honest, the beautiful pink hue is simply captivating! Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion or a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the joy of baking and savor the taste of summer with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (about 225g) fresh strawberries, pureed
• Optional: A few drops of red food coloring (gel is best) for a more vibrant color
• For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4-5 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (about 113g) fresh strawberries, pureed
• Optional: A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness
• For Decoration (Optional):
• Fresh strawberries, sliced or whole
• Sprinkles

Preparing the Strawberry Cake Batter

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pans: First things first, let’s get those ovens heated up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also use baking spray with flour already mixed in – it’s a real time-saver! Make sure you coat the pans really well to prevent the cake from sticking. I sometimes like to line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for extra insurance.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking is important because it helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and baking soda, which will give your cake a nice, even rise. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed. The mixture should be pale and airy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, which contributes to the cake’s light and tender texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cake, so don’t skip it!
5. Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients: This is where we combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. So, add about a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the buttermilk, then another third of the dry ingredients, then the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough cake.
6. Incorporate Strawberry Puree: Gently fold in the strawberry puree until just combined. If you’re using food coloring, add it now and stir until the batter is evenly colored. Remember, a little food coloring goes a long way!
7. Divide Batter and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Spread the batter evenly in each pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
8. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting, or the frosting will melt.

Preparing the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Sifting the powdered sugar helps to prevent lumps in the frosting.
3. Add Vanilla and Strawberry Puree: Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
4. Adjust Sweetness (Optional): Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, if desired. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more powdered sugar if needed.

Assembling the Strawberry Cake

1. Level the Cakes (Optional): If your cakes have a domed top, use a serrated knife to level them. This will make it easier to stack and frost the cake.
2. Frost the First Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
3. Add the Second Layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosting.
4. Frost the Entire Cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. You can create a smooth finish or add swirls and texture with a spatula or knife.
5. Decorate (Optional): Decorate the cake with fresh strawberry slices or whole strawberries. You can also add sprinkles for a festive touch.
6. Chill (Optional): Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the frosting to set and make the cake easier to slice.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your delicious homemade strawberry cake! Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Cake Homemade recipe is truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that! From the vibrant color to the burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite, it’s a cake that’s guaranteed to impress. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience, a celebration of summer, and a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together with a little love. The moist, tender crumb, achieved through the careful balance of ingredients and the gentle mixing technique, is simply divine. Forget store-bought cakes loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives; this homemade version is in a league of its own.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. While it’s absolutely perfect as is, served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for an extra boost of strawberry intensity. Or, for a more sophisticated twist, consider incorporating a hint of balsamic vinegar into the strawberry compote – the subtle tanginess will beautifully complement the sweetness of the berries.

For a truly decadent experience, you could even frost the cake with a cream cheese frosting instead of the whipped cream. The slight tang of the cream cheese will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake and the strawberries. Another variation I love is to add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds on top for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can easily reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe without sacrificing the overall taste and texture.

Serving suggestions are endless! This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten up a weekday afternoon. Imagine serving it at a summer barbecue, alongside grilled burgers and refreshing lemonade. Or picture it as the centerpiece of a bridal shower, adorned with fresh flowers and delicate decorations. It’s a cake that’s equally at home at a casual gathering or a formal event.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m thrilled to be sharing it with you. I truly believe that baking is an act of love, and this cake is a perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece. I promise you, the aroma of this cake baking in your kitchen will fill your home with warmth and happiness. And the taste? Well, that’s something you’ll have to experience for yourself.

I’m so excited for you to try this Strawberry Cake Homemade recipe! Once you’ve made it, please, please, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Did you add a special ingredient? Did you try a different frosting? Did you serve it with a unique side dish? I’m all ears! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue improving and refining my recipes. Happy baking!

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June 20, 2025 by Melissa