Best Ever Strawberry Cake

Think of the classic strawberry shortcake, but elevate it to a whole new level with the Best Ever Strawberry Cake. This recipe combines fresh strawberries, rich flavors, and a moist texture that’ll leave you wanting more. With options for a layer or sheet cake, it’s perfect for any occasion. Curious about how to achieve that delightful cream cheese frosting infused with strawberries? Let’s explore the details and get you started on this delicious journey.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you taste this strawberry cake, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite for many. This recipe shines with its natural strawberry flavor, thanks to fresh strawberries that skip artificial additives. The moist texture comes from a perfect blend of butter, oil, and sour cream, while cake flour guarantees fluffy layers. You’ll love the added richness of strawberry compote, made by pureeing thawed frozen strawberries. The cake is also enhanced with cream cheese frosting made with freeze-dried strawberries and strawberry jam for a delightful finish. For frosting, choose between strawberry buttercream or cream cheese frosting for a creamy contrast. This cake’s versatility allows you to make it as a layer or sheet cake, perfect for any occasion. Plus, it can be customized in size, making it ideal for celebrations or a simple snack. Enjoy your baking!

History

Strawberry cake has a rich history that dates back centuries, showcasing its evolution across different cultures. The earliest records of humans enjoying strawberries go back to ancient Rome. By the Medieval Ages, strawberries were often paired with cream in Europe. In 1847, the first reference resembling strawberry shortcake appeared in a U.S. recipe book. Over time, recipes evolved considerably, such as the 1850 version in Miss Leslie’s Ladies Receipt Book, which featured mashed strawberries and icing. Japanese baker Fujii Rin’emon introduced strawberry shortcake to Japan in 1910, adapting it with genoise sponge cake and light cream. This adaptation reflects how strawberries paired with cream became a significant dessert tradition in Japan. Today, strawberry cake symbolizes cultural significance in various regions, making it a beloved dessert worldwide.

Recipe

Ingredients
– 3 cups fresh strawberries
– 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar (or 1 1/2 cups for a sweeter version)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– Ground freeze-dried strawberries (for frosting)
– Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions
1. Prepare the strawberry filling by combining 3 cups of fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, mashing the strawberries as they soften, until the mixture reduces and thickens (about 10-15 minutes). Set aside to cool. This strawberry filling serves as the base to amplify the natural strawberry taste.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and the remaining sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, baking soda, and flour. Gradually fold this into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. If using, add in a couple of drops of red food coloring to achieve a pink hue.
Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the cooled strawberry filling between the two layers. For the frosting, combine cream cheese with ground freeze-dried strawberries and beat until smooth. Frost the top and sides of the cake with this mixture, ensuring an even layer.

Extra Tips
For an extra burst of strawberry flavor, consider adding some cooled strawberry puree to your frosting. You can also enhance the decorations on your cake by garnishing it with fresh strawberry slices or sprigs of mint. Remember to store the cake in the refrigerator if you’re not serving it immediately, as the cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration for best freshness. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Final Thoughts

While creating the best-ever strawberry cake can seem challenging, the process is straightforward and rewarding.

You’ll enjoy the delightful flavor from fresh strawberries, paired with the perfect blend of butter, oil, and sour cream or buttermilk for moisture. Remember to use baking soda to neutralize the acidity and choose the right flour for cake structure to ensure a delicate crumb.

When it comes to frosting, strawberry cream cheese or whipped buttercream enhances the taste beautifully. Focus on a tidy assembly by using a cake turntable, which helps achieve even layers.

Finally, don’t forget to add extra strawberry shapes on top for a charming finish. With practice, you’ll master this cake, impressing friends and family with your baking skills.

Happy baking!

FAQ

Have you ever found yourself with questions while baking a strawberry cake? You’re not alone!

When measuring flour, spoon it into your cup and level it off to avoid excess. Always use fresh strawberries for the best taste, and consider cooking them down for a flavorful puree. Strawberry puree can be made by blending fresh strawberries and cooking them down to concentrate their flavor.

Remember, room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, create a smoother batter. For even baking, bake your cake layers simultaneously.

Avoid overmixing by mixing wet and dry ingredients separately. When making frosting, incorporate strawberry puree or freeze-dried strawberries for flavor.

Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350°F and let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

Following these tips will help you bake the perfect strawberry cake every time!