This Classic Homemade Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Unlike artificial strawberry cakes, this recipe uses real strawberries to create a naturally sweet and moist cake. The cake layers are infused with strawberry puree, giving them a vibrant pink hue and a rich, fruity taste. Topped with a luscious strawberry buttercream frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations, tea parties, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
- ½ teaspoon red liquid food coloring (optional)
For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup fresh strawberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
- Wash and hull the fresh strawberries.
- Blend them in a food processor until smooth.
- Pour the puree into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Let the puree cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Fold in the strawberry puree and food coloring (if using) until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Mix in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt.
- Beat until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous amount of strawberry buttercream frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers.
- Frost the sides and top of the cake evenly.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or whipped cream, if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Homemade Strawberry Cake is a showstopper with its rich strawberry flavor and velvety buttercream frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this fruity, moist, and delicious dessert! 🍓🎂
Would you like any variations or additional tips for decorating? 😊