Introduction to Fresh Strawberry Cake
Why Fresh Strawberry Cake is a Must-Try for Young Professionals
If you're a young professional juggling a busy life, fresh strawberry cake is a delightful treat that checks all the boxes. Not only does this cake bring a burst of flavor with its vibrant strawberries, but it also offers a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of carefree summer days. Imagine slicing into a moist, fluffy cake adorned with a luscious strawberry cream cheese whipped cream—it's an experience that feels both comforting and celebratory.
This cake is perfect for gatherings with friends or to impress someone special. It's an easy way to bring a little sweetness into your life without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, allowing you to focus more on enjoying good company rather than sweating over the stove.
Don’t just take our word for it; consider how many people rave about the wonders of baking with fresh ingredients. As you learn to whip up this strawberry cake, you'll find that it’s not just a dessert—it's a recipe for creating memorable moments.
So, grab those fresh strawberries, and let’s dive into the delightful world of fresh strawberry cake! This simple yet exquisite treat is a must-add to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients for Fresh Strawberry Cake
When whipping up a fresh strawberry cake, you'll want to gather the best ingredients to ensure that delightful, fruity flavor shines through. Here’s what you need:
Cake Ingredients:
- 3 cups (370g) cake flour: The base for a light, fluffy cake.
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder: Essential for that beautiful rise.
- ½ teaspoon of salt: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- 1 cup (8 oz) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 ¾ cups (390g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly.
- 3 large eggs + 2 extra yolks: Provides structure and richness.
- 1 ¼ cups of milk: Use anything but skim for a creamy texture.
- 2 teaspoon of vanilla extract: A must for that warm flavor.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream Ingredients:
- 3 cups of heavy cream: For a luscious, whipped topping.
- 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar, divided: Sweetens the whipped cream nicely.
- 8 oz cream cheese: Adds a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberry.
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the cream.
- 1 ½ lbs strawberries: The star of the show, hulled and sliced.
- Optional: Additional sliced strawberries for decoration.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a delectable, crowd-pleasing fresh strawberry cake! If you're looking for high-quality strawberries, check your local farmers' market or consider organic options from Target. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Fresh Strawberry Cake
Creating a fresh strawberry cake is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Follow this guide, and you’ll be delighting your taste buds in no time!
Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before diving in, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you'll require for the cake:
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For the Cake:
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3 cups cake flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ¾ cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs + 2 egg yolks
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1 ¼ cups milk
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2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:
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3 cups heavy cream
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1 cup powdered sugar, divided
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 ½ lbs strawberries, hulled and sliced
Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential as it helps aerate the flour, giving your cake that wonderful texture. Set this bowl aside.
In a stand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Next, beat in the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, adding the vanilla with the last egg yolk. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk alternately until just combined. Remember to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl for even mixing!
Bake the Cakes to Perfection
Now it's time to divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Cool the Cake Layers
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. Using a knife, gently run along the edges to release the cakes. Turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial as it helps prevent sogginess. For best results, consider placing them in resealable bags to maintain moisture.
Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
While your cakes are cooling, let’s prepare the luxurious frosting! Beat the heavy cream with half of the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the remaining powdered sugar and vanilla. Gently fold the whipped cream into this mixture for a velvety texture infused with strawberry goodness.
Frost and Assemble the Cake
Once your layers are cool, it’s time for the fun part! Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the strawberry cream cheese whipped cream. Repeat this with the second layer and then place the final layer on top. Frost the top and sides to your liking, and if you want to impress, decorate with some sliced strawberries on top. Your stunning fresh strawberry cake is now ready to be admired and devoured!
Enjoy the beautiful results of your hard work, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!
Variations on Fresh Strawberry Cake
Fresh strawberry cake is a versatile treat that can be transformed to suit different tastes and dietary preferences! Here are a couple of delicious variations to inspire you in the kitchen.
Chocolate Strawberry Cake
If you're a fan of the classic pairing of chocolate and strawberries, try making a Chocolate Strawberry Cake! Simply add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. This will create a rich chocolate layer that beautifully complements the fresh strawberries. For the frosting, integrate a chocolate ganache using dark chocolate and cream for that extra indulgence. Your guests will be raving about this delightful twist!
Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake
For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily make a Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake. Substitute the cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Additionally, ensure all other ingredients, like baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free. This cake remains light and airy while still showcasing the wonderful flavor of fresh strawberries. It’s a fabulous way to ensure everyone can enjoy your delightful creation!
Feel free to explore these variations and make them your own!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Fresh Strawberry Cake
Choosing the Best Strawberries
For an unforgettable fresh strawberry cake, opt for ripe, flavorful strawberries. When shopping, look for berries that are bright red and fragrant, as these will enhance your cake's flavor. If possible, buy them from local farmers’ markets for the best quality.
Perfecting the Batter
- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This promotes better blending and a fluffier texture.
- Mix the dough just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Storing and Serving
After baking, let your fresh strawberry cake cool completely before frosting. To keep it moist, wrap it in plastic wrap if storing for later.
Optional Decor
Feel free to enhance the visual appeal of your cake with sliced strawberries on top or drizzle a berry compote for extra flavor. You can find great berry compote recipes here.
With these simple tips, your fresh strawberry cake is destined to impress!
Serving Suggestions for Fresh Strawberry Cake
When serving your fresh strawberry cake, think of ways to elevate its deliciousness! Here are some delightful suggestions:
- Pair with fresh berries: Garnish each slice with additional sliced strawberries for added flair and flavor.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the fresh fruitiness of the cake perfectly.
- Serve with a side of whipped cream: A dollop of plain or flavored whipped cream can enhance every bite, making your dessert even more indulgent.
- Compliment with tea or coffee: The refreshing taste of herbal tea or a bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness and makes for a lovely afternoon treat.
Choosing your accompaniments wisely can turn this cake into the highlight of your gathering! For more ideas, check out this Baker's Whimsy article.
Time Breakdown for Fresh Strawberry Cake
Creating your delightful fresh strawberry cake is an engaging process that brings out both your culinary skills and creativity. Here's a handy time breakdown to help you prepare, bake, cool, and enjoy this delicious treat!
Preparation Time
About 30 minutes is all you need to gather ingredients, prepare your pans, and mix up the fluffy batter. It's essential to make sure everything is ready to go before hitting that bake button.
Baking Time
The bake time for your cake will vary depending on your oven, but typically it takes around 25-30 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it and test doneness with a toothpick!
Cooling Time
After baking, allow your cakes to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. It’s important to let them cool completely, which may take around 1 hour.
Total Time
In total, set aside around 2 hours to prepare, bake, cool, and frost your fresh strawberry cake. The end result is well worth the time spent! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Ready to dive into the delicious world of fresh strawberry cake? You can find more tips and tricks to perfect your baking skills in the Baking Basics blog!
Nutritional Facts for Fresh Strawberry Cake
Calories
A slice of this delightful fresh strawberry cake (about 1/12 of the cake) typically contains approximately 350 calories. It's a sweet treat that brings joy without overwhelming your daily calorie intake!
Sugar Content
This cake is undeniably sweet, featuring around 25 grams of sugar per slice. However, paired with fresh strawberries, you can relish the natural sweetness of fruit in every bite.
Fat Content
With around 18 grams of fat per serving, much of it comes from the buttery goodness in the cake, along with the cream cheese in the whipped topping. Indulging in moderation is always key!
Feeling inspired to whip up this delicious dessert? For more insights on baking with strawberries, check out Strawberry Benefits. Enjoy your baking adventure!
FAQs about Fresh Strawberry Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh strawberries bring a delightful taste and texture, frozen strawberries can be a convenient alternative. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in your cake or frosting. This helps maintain the cake's moisture without turning it overly soggy.
How should I store leftover cake?
To keep your fresh strawberry cake delicious for days, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’ve already frosted the cake, it can be beneficial to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge. It should remain fresh for about 3-4 days!
What is the best way to ensure the cake stays moist?
Moisture retention is key to a delightful fresh strawberry cake. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid overbaking; check for doneness at the minimum baking time.
- Consider using buttermilk or sour cream in the batter for extra moisture.
- If you want, brush a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) over the cooled cake layers before frosting for an added moisture boost.
Discover more tips on maintaining cake freshness at The Spruce Eats.
Conclusion on Fresh Strawberry Cake
In summary, the fresh strawberry cake is a delightful blend of fluffy cake and rich, strawberry-infused whipped cream. Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, this treat is sure to impress. Embrace its sweet flavor and share it with loved ones for memorable moments. Enjoy every bite!
Fresh Strawberry Cake
Equipment
- Electric stand mixer
- 3 9-inch round cake pans
- parchment paper
- Wire racks
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 cups cake flour 370g
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened, 8 oz
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar 390g
- 3 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 ¼ cups milk anything but skim
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar divided, 125g
- 8 oz cream cheese left at room temperature until partially softened (about 20 - 30 minutes)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ lbs strawberries hulled and sliced into pieces slightly under ½-inch
- sliced strawberries for decorating (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter 3 9-inch round cake pans then line bottom with a round of parchment, butter parchment and lightly dust pans with flour, shake out excess. Set pans aside.
- Make the cake: Sift cake flour into a medium mixing bowl. Add baking powder and salt and whisk for 20 seconds, set aside.
- In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Mix in eggs and egg yolks one at a time adding in vanilla with last egg yolk. Add ⅓ of the flour mixture at a time alternating with ½ of the milk and mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition. Scrape down sides and bottom of bowl and gently fold batter several times.
- Divide batter among prepared baking pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25 - 30 minutes until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean.
- Cool in pan about 5 minutes, run knife around edges of cake to ensure they are loosened then invert onto wire racks to cool completely. Transfer cakes to gallon size resealable bags after about 25 minutes of cooling to prevent drying out.
- Once cool frost with Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream. Store cake in an airtight container in refrigerator.
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