Super Simple Strawberry Cake Recipe

Strawberry cakes are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to birthday celebrations. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that anyone can bake a moist, flavorful strawberry cake with minimal effort.

Introduction

Strawberry cakes are known for their vibrant color and delicious taste. This super simple strawberry cake recipe is designed for both beginners and experienced bakers who want a quick and easy dessert without compromising on flavor. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible, while the fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this easy strawberry cake will surely impress with its delightful flavor and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients Overview

Basic Ingredients

To make this cake, you’ll need:

1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups of cake flour
1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
1 teaspoon of table salt
1 cup of cold butter, cubed
4 large eggs
3/4 cup of milk or buttermilk
3/4 cup of strawberry puree or jam
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

Special Additions

For an enhanced flavor, consider adding:

Lemon zest
Strawberry emulsion or extract
Pink food coloring for a more vibrant cake

Step-by-Step Cake Preparation for Super Simple Strawberry Cake

Preparation Steps:

Preheat the Oven: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent the super simple strawberry cake from sticking.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of cake flour, 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of table salt.
Beat the Butter and Sugar: Next, in another bowl, beat 1 cup of cubed cold butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture becomes fluffy.
Add Eggs: Afterward, add 4 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Then, alternately add the dry ingredients and 3/4 cup of milk (or buttermilk) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Incorporate Strawberry Puree: Gently fold in 3/4 cup of strawberry puree (or jam) and pink food coloring (if using) to give the batter a vibrant strawberry color.

Baking Instructions for Super Simple Strawberry Cake

Pour and Bake: First, pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Subsequently, bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Next, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

By following these steps, you will create a perfectly baked super simple strawberry cake that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Following these steps will help you create a perfectly baked easy strawberry cake that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Baking Instructions:

Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Subsequently, bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Finally, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Following these steps will help you create a perfectly baked strawberry cake that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Strawberry Frosting Preparation for Super Simple Strawberry Cake

Ingredients for Frosting:

2 cups of butter, room temperature
7 cups of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
3/4 cup of strawberry puree or jam
Pink food coloring (optional)

Making the Frosting:

Beat the Butter: First, beat the butter until it is creamy and smooth.
Gradually Add Sugar: Next, gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add Vanilla and Puree: Then, add the vanilla extract and strawberry puree, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Adjust Consistency: Finally, if needed, adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar.

Frosting the Cake:

First Layer: Begin by placing one cake layer on a plate and spreading frosting on top.
Add Second Layer: Next, add the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
Decorate: Lastly, decorate with fresh strawberries and extra puree as desired.

By following these steps, you will create a delicious and visually appealing frosting for your super simple strawberry cake.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Strawberry Cake

Choosing the Right Strawberries

Selecting the right strawberries is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your super simple strawberry cake.

Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries:

Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture. They should be bright red, firm, and fragrant. Look for strawberries that are fully ripe, as underripe berries can be sour and less flavorful.
Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen strawberries can be a good alternative. However, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in your cake batter.

Tips for Using Strawberries:

Strawberry Puree: To make a strawberry puree, blend the strawberries until smooth. You can use this puree in both the cake batter and the frosting for a consistent strawberry flavor.
Macerating Strawberries: If you prefer, you can macerate the strawberries by sprinkling them with a little sugar and letting them sit for about 30 minutes. This process enhances the sweetness and releases the natural juices of the strawberries.

By carefully choosing and preparing your strawberries, you will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your super simple strawberry cake, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Enhancing Flavor

To elevate the taste of your super simple strawberry cake, consider the following tips:

Lemon Zest: Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter brightens the flavor and complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Strawberry Emulsion: Use a few drops of strawberry emulsion instead of extract for a more intense and concentrated strawberry flavor.
Almond Extract: A small amount of almond extract can add a unique depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.
Vanilla Extract: Incorporate high-quality vanilla extract to bring out the natural sweetness of the strawberries and add a warm, rich undertone.

By incorporating these ingredients, you can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your super simple strawberry cake, making it even more delicious and memorable.

Presentation Ideas

To make your super simple strawberry cake visually appealing, consider these presentation tips:

Use a Cake Stand: Elevate your cake on a decorative cake stand to make it the centerpiece of your table.
Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Arrange whole or sliced strawberries on top of the cake and around the base for a fresh and attractive look.
Add Mint Leaves: Sprinkle a few mint leaves around the strawberries for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a delicate, elegant finish.
Decorative Drizzle: Drizzle strawberry sauce or chocolate over the top for added flair and flavor.

These presentation ideas will enhance the visual appeal of your super simple strawberry cake, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter

To ensure your super simple strawberry cake is light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake. Here are some tips to prevent overmixing:

Combine Ingredients Gradually: Mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients alternately, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Mix Until Just Combined: Stir the batter until the ingredients are just combined. There should be no visible streaks of flour, but the batter should not be completely smooth.
Fold in Delicately: When adding the strawberry puree or other mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter to maintain its airy texture.

Incorrect Measurements

Accurate measurements are crucial for baking a perfect super simple strawberry cake. Here are some tips to ensure precision:

Use Measuring Cups and Spoons: Always use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to get the correct amounts.
Level Off Ingredients: When measuring dry ingredients like flour, use a knife to level off the excess for an accurate measurement.
Weigh Ingredients: For the most accuracy, use a kitchen scale to weigh ingredients, especially flour and sugar.
Double-Check Recipe: Carefully read and double-check the recipe to ensure you’re using the right amounts.

Not Allowing the Cake to Cool

Allowing your super simple strawberry cake to cool completely is essential for the best results. Here’s why:

Prevents Melting Frosting: If the cake is warm, the frosting will melt and slide off, making it difficult to achieve a smooth finish.
Improves Texture: Cooling the cake allows the structure to set, resulting in a better texture.
Easier Handling: A cooled cake is easier to handle and decorate without breaking.

To ensure your cake cools properly, let it sit in the pans for 10 minutes after baking, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Beverages

To complement the flavors of your super simple strawberry cake, consider pairing it with the following beverages:

Tea: A light, fruity tea like strawberry or hibiscus enhances the cake’s natural strawberry flavor.
Coffee: A cup of coffee, whether it’s a mild blend or a rich espresso, pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
Wine: A chilled glass of rosé or a sparkling wine complements the cake’s sweetness and adds a touch of sophistication.
Lemonade: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve with homemade lemonade.

These beverage pairings will enhance your cake-eating experience, making it even more delightful

Side Dishes

To enhance your super simple strawberry cake experience, consider serving these delightful side dishes:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream pairs perfectly with the cake’s moist texture.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy complement to the strawberry flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh strawberries make a healthy and delicious side.

These side dishes will make your dessert spread more diverse and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, thaw and drain them thoroughly before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the cake batter.

How do I store the strawberry cake? Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have strawberry gelatin? If you don’t have strawberry gelatin, you can use additional strawberry puree or a few drops of strawberry emulsion to enhance the flavor.

By addressing these common questions, you can ensure a smooth baking experience and enjoy your super simple strawberry cake to the fullest.

Conclusion

This super simple strawberry cake recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious, moist cake that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

This article not only guides you through making a strawberry cake but also provides tips and FAQs to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable. For further details on making strawberry puree, check out this guide on homemade strawberry puree. Additionally, understanding the science of baking cakes can help you perfect your baking skills.