Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious Strawberry Cream Cake? In this simple recipe, I’ll guide you through the steps to create a light and fluffy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few fresh ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll whip up a delightful cake that bursts with strawberry flavor. Get your apron on, and let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: This cake combines the sweetness of strawberries with a light and fluffy cream, creating a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a birthday, picnic, or a simple dessert at home, this cake is sure to impress guests and loved ones alike.
- Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant strawberries and whipped cream topping, this cake is not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
To make this delightful Strawberry Cream Cake, gather all your ingredients. Each item plays a key role in creating that soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor.
First, the all-purpose flour gives structure. The granulated sugar adds sweetness. Unsalted butter contributes to the cake's moistness, while eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract boosts flavor, and milk helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
You will also need baking powder, which acts as a leavening agent to make your cake rise. Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
For the creamy topping, heavy whipping cream is essential. It gets whipped into soft peaks and adds a light, airy feel. Powdered sugar sweetens the cream without grit. You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the cream for extra flavor.
Finally, fresh strawberries bring a burst of color and natural sweetness. The strawberry jam adds a nice glossy finish and complements the cake layers beautifully.
Get ready to create a delicious dessert that is both simple and impressive!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mix the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combining Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding the dry mix with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Baking and Cooling
- Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the cake in the pan completely before assembling.
Preparing the Whipped Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
- Beat until soft peaks form.
Assembling the Cake
- Slice the cooled cake in half horizontally.
- Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on the bottom half. Add sliced strawberries and half of the whipped cream.
- Place the top half of the cake over the filling. Spread the remaining whipped cream on top.
Final Touches
- Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Decorate with additional sliced strawberries for a fresh look.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Cake
- Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps the cake rise evenly.
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Fresh strawberries and eggs make a big difference.
Whipped Cream Tips
- To achieve the right consistency, beat the cream until soft peaks form. This makes it fluffy.
- Chill your mixing bowl before whipping. Cold bowls help the cream whip faster and better.
Presentation Ideas
- Serve slices on white plates. This makes the colors pop and looks elegant.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a drizzle of strawberry syrup. This adds a nice touch.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, always opt for ripe, fresh strawberries. They will enhance the taste of your cake significantly.
- Chill Your Whipping Bowl: To achieve perfectly whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes before whipping.
- Layering Technique: When layering the cake, ensure even distribution of strawberries and cream for a balanced flavor in every slice.
- Let It Chill: Allow the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the fruit in this cake. Blueberries or raspberries add a twist. Both fruits pair well with the cream. You can also try different whipped cream flavors. Add cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Or mix in a little almond or lemon extract. Each choice brings a new taste.
Dietary Options
If you need a gluten-free cake, use alternative flours. Almond flour or oat flour works well. Just make sure you adjust the baking powder. For a vegan version, swap the eggs and milk. Use flax eggs and almond milk instead. You can also use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. These changes make the cake friendly for everyone.
Cake Decoration Ideas
Get creative with your cake toppings. Use nuts, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers. You can also sprinkle some crushed cookies on top. For seasonal touches, try fresh mint in spring or fall leaves in autumn. These small details make your cake stand out. Enjoy making it your own!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your Strawberry Cream Cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out. If you have leftover whipped cream, keep it in a separate container. Make sure it's also covered tightly. Whipped cream is best used within a couple of days.
Long-term Storage
You can freeze the Strawberry Cream Cake for later. First, let it cool completely. Then wrap it well in plastic wrap. After that, place it in a freezer bag. This helps keep it fresh for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the cake moist and tasty.
Shelf Life
A Strawberry Cream Cake lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or smell something off, it's best to throw it away. Freshness is key for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your cake while it's still delicious!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle? To prevent sinking, ensure your baking powder is fresh. Mix the batter until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can create air pockets. Also, bake at the right temperature. An oven thermometer can help check accuracy.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them first and drain excess juice. Frozen berries may change the cake's texture slightly but still add flavor. They may also release more moisture, so adjust baking time.
What if I don't have heavy whipping cream? If you lack heavy whipping cream, try using chilled coconut cream. You can also use half-and-half but expect a lighter texture. For a quick substitute, combine milk with butter to mimic the fat content.
Troubleshooting Tips
What to do if the cream doesn't whip properly? If your cream doesn’t whip, check if it’s cold enough. Chill your bowl and beaters for best results. If it still won’t whip, try adding a touch of powdered sugar to stabilize it.
Fixing a dry cake texture If your cake turns out dry, you can moisten it. Brush it lightly with simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. If it’s too dry, serve it with extra whipped cream to add moisture.
Serving Suggestions
What drinks pair well with Strawberry Cream Cake? This cake pairs well with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water. Try a light white wine or a fruity rosé for a special treat. Coffee or herbal tea also complement the cake nicely.
Best occasions for serving this cake? Strawberry Cream Cake shines at birthdays, picnics, or summer gatherings. It’s perfect for bridal showers or family reunions. Serve it at any celebration that calls for something sweet and refreshing.
This blog post provides a clear guide to making a delicious Strawberry Cream Cake. We covered the ingredients, preparation steps, and crucial tips for success. You learned how to layer the cake and create tasty variations. Remember to store it correctly for lasting freshness.
In the end, baking is a fun journey. Enjoy creating your own version of this cake with fresh flavors and personal touches. Happy baking!
