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Best Ever Strawberry Cake
I absolutely adore warm sunny days, picnic blankets, and, of course, a slice of luscious homemade cake! This **Best Ever Strawberry Cake** always comes to my rescue when I need something sweet and cheerful. I can still remember the first time I made this cake for a summer birthday party. The surprise on everyone’s face when they took that first bite was priceless. I just love how the fresh strawberries scream summer in every slice, and the bright colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious!
This cake is not just pretty; it packs a flavor punch that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake elevates any occasion and brings back cherished memories of sweet indulgence. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!
What’s in Best Ever Strawberry Cake?
– All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): The vital backbone of any cake, giving it structure.
– Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the deal and helps our cake turn that lovely golden color!
– Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture. I always opt for the good stuff, usually Kerrygold or Land O’ Lakes.
– Large eggs (2): They bring everything together and help the cake rise beautifully.
– Whole milk (½ cup): Gives moisture and richness. Feel free to swap for any milk alternative if you’re dairy-free!
– Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Because vanilla enhances every sweet dish known to mankind! Just trust me on this one.
– Baking powder (2 tsp): Our trusty leavener that helps the batter rise to cake perfection.
– Salt (1/8 tsp): Just a pinch to balance everything out.
– Fresh strawberries (1 cup, pureed): The star of our show! Make sure they’re ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
– Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The base for our creamy frosting, it’s a must-have!
– Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
– Fresh strawberries (¼ cup, pureed): Full of flavor and color for that strawberry goodness.
– Vanilla extract (1 tsp): You can never have too much vanilla!
– Milk (1-2 tbsp, optional): To adjust consistency if needed.
– Pink food coloring: Just for some extra wow factor (optional, but I say why not!).
For Garnish:
– Fresh strawberries (halved): A delightful fresh touch on top.
– Mint leaves: Totally optional, but they add a lovely contrast and freshness!
Is Best Ever Strawberry Cake Good for You?
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This delightful cake is a treat – perfect for those indulgent moments! The **fresh strawberries** are the secret health weapon of this recipe. Did you know they’re loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants? Eating more strawberries can give your immune system a nice little boost!
However, I won’t pretend this cake is a health food, given the **sugar** and **butter** involved. It’s a dessert, after all, meant for celebration and enjoyment. Moderation is key, my friends! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could try cutting down on the sugar or using a sugar substitute. Also, if you prefer a lighter buttercream, you might consider cream cheese frosting as a twist.
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/8 tsp salt
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– ¼ cup fresh strawberries, pureed
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1-2 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)
– Pink food coloring (optional)
For Garnish:
– Fresh strawberries, halved
– Mint leaves (optional)
How to Make Best Ever Strawberry Cake?
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This is crucial, folks—nobody likes a cake that sticks!
2. **Prepare the Cake Batter**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Try not to eat it all before it gets into the cake!
3. **Add Eggs and Milk**: Beat in the eggs, one at a time. After that, mix in the milk and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. **Incorporate Strawberry Puree**: Gently fold in the strawberry puree until the batter is smooth and a beautiful pink color.
6. **Bake the Cakes**: Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Be sure to let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is where the house starts smelling irresistible!
7. **Make the Strawberry Buttercream**: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Next, add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. If it’s too thick, add milk until you reach the desired consistency. For extra pinkness, you can add some pink food coloring.
8. **Assemble the Cake**: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Slather on a generous layer of the strawberry buttercream before placing the second layer on top. Frost the remaining buttercream on the top and sides of the cake!
9. **Garnish**: Top it off with halved fresh strawberries and sprinkle some mint leaves around for that extra flair!
Sweet Tidbits for the Best Ever Strawberry Cake
– For the best flavor, make sure you use ripe strawberries for pureeing—this makes a world of difference!
– Letting the frosted cake chill for at least an hour helps the buttercream set nicely—though I know the temptation to dig in is real!
– This cake pairs splendidly with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Remember, no matter what, the most important ingredient is the love you put into it! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s sure to be a hit! Don’t forget to share your experiences, tips, and any “oops” moments you have along the way. Happy baking!
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