Introduction to Homemade Strawberry Cake
The allure of homemade desserts: Why they matter
Nothing quite compares to the warm embrace of a homemade strawberry cake. As the sweet aroma fills your kitchen, it not only delights your senses but also stirs up fond memories of special occasions and gatherings. Baking at home allows you to control every ingredient that goes into your dessert, ensuring it’s as wholesome and flavorful as you desire.
Homemade desserts, like this strawberry delight, foster creativity and provide a perfect way to unwind after a long day. Have you ever found yourself lost in the rhythm of mixing flour and sugar, feeling your stress melt away? That therapeutic aspect is just one reason why homemade treats are so cherished.
Moreover, sharing your homemade strawberry cake with friends and family creates a sense of connection that store-bought options can’t replicate. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a simple afternoon gathering, or just a treat for yourself, homemade desserts come with a personal touch that speaks volumes. Plus, you can customize them to suit dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients, making each recipe your very own.
So, roll up your sleeves, dust off that apron, and let’s create something delicious together! For more tips on baking with strawberries, explore this guide.
Ingredients for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Creating the perfect homemade strawberry cake begins with selecting the right ingredients. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you need to craft this delightful dessert.
Fresh Strawberries for the Puree
The heart of your cake starts with 1 pound (454g) of fresh strawberries. Ensure they are ripe, rinsed, and hulled to bring out their natural sweetness. These strawberries will be pureed and reduced to intensify their flavor, giving your cake that delicious, fruity essence.
Essential Cake Ingredients
For the cake, gathering high-quality essentials is key. You’ll need:
- 2 and ½ cups (295g) cake flour
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter
- 1 and ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 5 large egg whites
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
These ingredients ensure a moist and fluffy texture, which is craved in any cake. If you're unsure about measuring your flour correctly, check out this guide on how to measure baking ingredients.
Cream Cheese Frosting Components
To top off your cake with flair, you’ll want a luscious cream cheese frosting made from:
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat cream cheese
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
This combination delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, elevating your homemade strawberry cake to the next level. Curious about using freeze-dried strawberries? They enrich the frosting's flavor profile and can often be found in grocery stores or online.
With these ingredients, you are well on your way to baking a cake that’s not just a dessert, but a cherished experience. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Creating a delightful homemade strawberry cake is a rewarding experience that’s sure to impress anyone who savors a slice. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious dessert step-by-step!
Prepare the strawberry puree
To start, you’ll need to make a rich strawberry puree. Take about one pound of fresh strawberries, rinse, and hull them. Blend these strawberries in a food processor until smooth. Pour the puree into a saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25 to 35 minutes, or until it reduces to half a cup. This concentrated flavor will enhance your cake. Let it cool fully before using it in your batter. Pro tip: preparing your puree a day in advance gives it ample time to chill!
Prepping the baking pans
While the strawberry puree is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This is the magic number for baking most cakes. Proceed to grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. To ensure easy release, line the bottoms with parchment paper, then grease the parchment as well.
Combine dry ingredients
Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together 2 and ½ cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour, which will result in an even rise.
Make the cake batter
In a large bowl, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 and ¾ cups of granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy—about three minutes with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Add in five large egg whites and mix well, then fold in ⅓ cup of sour cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Gradually add your dry mixture, mixing on low speed while you pour in ½ cup of whole milk. Finally, stir in ½ cup of your cooled strawberry puree until well combined. Your batter is ready!
Bake the cake layers
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 24–25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool for one hour in the pans before transferring them onto a cooling rack.
Prepare the strawberry cream cheese frosting
For a luscious frosting, process 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. In another large bowl, cream together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups of confectioners' sugar, the strawberry powder, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. For the perfect consistency, blend in some milk as needed. Refrigerate your frosting for about an hour—it will be worth the wait!
Assemble and frost the cake
To assemble your homemade strawberry cake, level your cooled cake layers using a serrated knife for a flat surface. Place one layer on your serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then add the second layer. Coat the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting for a crumb coat, allowing it to set in the fridge for about 20 minutes. Finish with a thick layer of frosting all around.
Enjoy the process of making your homemade strawberry cake—not only is it delicious, but it also looks stunning on any dessert table. Happy baking!
Variations on Homemade Strawberry Cake
Strawberry Shortcake Twist
If you're in the mood for something different yet familiar, try a strawberry shortcake twist on your classic homemade strawberry cake. Simply layer your cake with fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices between each layer. Top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream and some more strawberries for that classic shortcake feel. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors in a lighter presentation that’s perfect for summertime gatherings.
Layered Strawberry Smoothies
For a fun spin, consider turning your homemade strawberry cake into a delicious layered smoothie! Blend the cake with some yogurt and ice until smooth, then alternate layers of the cake mixture with fresh strawberries in tall glasses. This not only provides a refreshing treat but also uses up any leftover cake creatively. Plus, it's ideal for brunch or an afternoon snack, bringing a sweet twist to your typical smoothie routine.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Tips for Perfecting the Puree
For the best homemade strawberry cake, ensure your strawberry puree is both luscious and flavorful. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries and blend until smooth. Simmering the puree reduces excess moisture, enhancing its flavor concentration. To achieve a concentrated taste, don’t rush the simmering process; allow it to reduce completely for a rich flavor. For a smoother texture, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp before using!
Storing Your Cake Properly
To keep your homemade strawberry cake fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you've already frosted it, ensure it's well-wrapped to maintain its moisture—this keeps the cake tender and delicious. For longer storage, you can freeze either the unfrosted layers or the whole cake. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, allowing it to regain its delightful texture. Want more tips? Check out this guide on safe food storage!
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Ideal sides and accompaniments
To elevate your homemade strawberry cake, consider pairing it with light and refreshing options. Here are some delightful accompaniments:
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries not only adds color but enhances the berry flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream makes for a decadent treat, especially on a warm day.
Presentation tips for serving
When it comes to serving your homemade strawberry cake, presentation is key. Here are some friendly tips:
- Cake Stand: Use a decorative cake stand to showcase your layered masterpiece.
- Garnishes: Fresh mint leaves or extra berries can be added on top for an elegant touch.
- Slice with Care: For perfect slices, let the cake chill for a bit before cutting. This helps keep the layers intact.
By thoughtfully picking sides and style, your homemade strawberry cake will not only taste amazing but look stunning too!
Time Breakdown for Homemade Strawberry Cake
Preparation time
This delightful homemade strawberry cake requires about 30 minutes for preparation. That includes making your strawberry puree and mixing your cake batter.
Baking time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven! The baking process will take approximately 24-25 minutes.
Total time
From start to finish, including cooling and frosting, you're looking at approximately 2 hours. This allows you to create a beautifully layered cake that’s sure to impress!
By the way, if you love baking and want additional tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert guidance and delightful recipes.
Now that you know the time commitment, let’s jump into the full recipe for this exquisite homemade strawberry cake!
Nutritional Facts for Homemade Strawberry Cake
When you treat yourself to a slice of homemade strawberry cake, it’s always nice to know what’s in it. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:
Calories
A slice of this delightful cake typically contains about 360 calories, providing a satisfying dessert option without going overboard.
Protein
Each serving boasts around 3 grams of protein, thanks to the inclusion of egg whites and dairy, making it a bit more nourishing.
Sugar content
With approximately 30 grams of sugar per slice, this cake is undoubtedly sweet. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using less frosting or a sugar substitute in the batter.
For more insights into the benefits of fresh strawberries, check out Healthline for their nutritional value!
FAQs about Homemade Strawberry Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?
Absolutely! You can use frozen strawberries, but keep in mind they may take longer to reduce into a puree than fresh strawberries. If you opt for frozen, thaw them first to speed up the process. Just remember to drain any excess liquid to prevent your cake batter from becoming too wet.
What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
To keep your homemade strawberry cake fresh, tightly cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you've had it out for over four hours, let it sit at room temperature for about two hours before enjoying it again. This helps enhance the flavors!
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
If you find the frosting a bit too sweet for your liking, simply add a pinch of salt. The salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the strawberry cream cheese frosting. Alternatively, consider reducing the confectioners’ sugar or incorporating more strawberry puree for a fruity twist.
For incorporating more cake tips, check out resources like Sally’s Baking Addiction for additional insights!
Conclusion on Homemade Strawberry Cake
Creating a homemade strawberry cake is a delightful way to celebrate special moments—or to simply indulge in a sweet treat. With fresh strawberries and a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy every slice!
Homemade Strawberry Cake
Equipment
- blender or food processor
- 9-inch Round Cake Pans
- Mixing Bowl
- Handheld or Stand Mixer
- cooling rack
- Cake Turntable
- serrated knife
- Parchment paper
- Bench scraper
- baking sheets
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 1 pound fresh strawberries rinsed and hulled
Cake
- 2.5 cups cake flour spooned & leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1.75 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large egg whites at room temperature
- 0.33 cups full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups whole milk at room temperature
- 0.5 cups reduced strawberry puree from step 1
- 1-2 drops red or pink food coloring optional
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Make the reduced strawberry puree first, and let cool: In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries. You should have a little more than 1 cup (about 270g). Transfer the puree to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until it’s reduced to ½ cup (about 135g). This usually takes around 25–35 minutes. Remove from heat, pour into a heat-safe bowl, and cool completely before using.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
- In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until light and creamy. Add the egg whites and beat until combined. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined. Whisk in the reduced strawberry puree and food coloring, if using.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 24–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 1 hour.
- Run a knife around the edges to loosen the sides, remove the cakes from the pan, peel off the parchment, and place on a rack to finish cooling.
- In a blender or food processor, process the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, strawberry powder, milk, and vanilla. Beat until combined and creamy.
- Assemble and frost: Level the cakes by slicing off the tops to create a flat surface. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand. Spread frosting in an even layer on top. Top with the second layer, upside down, and spread frosting all over the top and sides.
- Refrigerate the cake until the frosting is set, for at least 20 minutes.
- Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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