- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix in sour cream and strawberry puree until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk, alternating between them until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the finely diced strawberries and add a few drops of food coloring if desired.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25β30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Decorate with strawberry slices, white chocolate shavings, or mint leaves.
Storage & Freezing:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
Variants & Customization
- Strawberry Shortcake Style: Add layers of whipped cream instead of frosting.
- Extra Strawberry Flavor: Add 1 tbsp strawberry extract to the batter.
- Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Add Β½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
FAQ
1. Can I use strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries?
Yes! Substitute Β½ cup strawberry puree with Β½ cup strawberry jam for a stronger strawberry flavor.
2. How do I make the cake extra moist?
Using buttermilk and sour cream keeps it extra soft. You can also brush the layers with strawberry syrup before frosting.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain before pureeing to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
4. Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes! Fill cupcake liners β full and bake at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 18β20 minutes.
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