Classic Homemade Strawberry Cake Recipe

This Classic Homemade Strawberry Cake is bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and made entirely from scratch. Unlike artificial-tasting strawberry cakes, this recipe uses real strawberries to create a naturally sweet and vibrant cake. The secret to its rich strawberry taste is reducing fresh strawberry puree to concentrate the flavor before incorporating it into the batter. Paired with a luscious strawberry frosting, this cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations.

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Puree Reduction:

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed

For the Cake Batter:

• 2 ½ cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large egg whites
• ⅓ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup reduced strawberry puree
• 2 drops pink food coloring (optional)

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, processed into powder
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree Reduction

1. Puree 1 pound of fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor.
2. Pour the puree into a saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the puree until you have ½ cup of thickened strawberry concentrate (about 25-35 minutes).
4. Allow the puree to cool completely before using in the cake batter.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Using a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4. Add egg whites, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in yogurt and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, mixing until just incorporated.
7. Stir in ½ cup of reduced strawberry puree and pink food coloring (if using).
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 24-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Frosting

1. Process freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar, strawberry powder, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Beat until creamy and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
3. Decorate with fresh strawberries or additional freeze-dried strawberry crumbs.

This Classic Homemade Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that showcases the natural sweetness of strawberries in every bite. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert! You can find more details here. 🍓🎂✨