Juicy Homemade Strawberry Sheet Cake
Is there anything more delightful than a slice of homemade cake, especially when it’s bursting with fresh strawberries? I still remember the first time I made this Juicy Strawberry Sheet Cake; it was summer, and our kitchen was alive with laughter as my friends gathered for a picnic. The sweet scent of strawberries and the rich aroma of buttery goodness filled the air, and it quickly became a crowd favorite! Each bite is like a sunbeam on your tongue, and the vibrant pink frosting just beckons you to take another slice.
This cake is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! Whether it’s a birthday, a picnic, or just a Tuesday that needs brightening, this cake never fails to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for budding bakers and seasoned pros alike. Let’s get down to how we can create this delightful treat!
What’s in Juicy Homemade Strawberry Sheet Cake?
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped: The star of the show! Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and moisture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use frozen strawberries too; just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base that gives our cake structure. Feel free to swap it out for a gluten-free blend if you’re catering to dietary restrictions!
– 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the tartness of the strawberries. Who doesn’t love a little sugar, right?
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: This creamy goodness brings richness to our cake. I always prefer unsalted, so I can control the saltiness.
– 1 cup milk: Adds moisture. You can use any milk you prefer—almond, oat, or whole milk will work beautifully here.
– 2 large eggs: These little guys help bind everything together. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best texture!
– 2 tsp baking powder: This is our leavening agent, making the cake rise and stay fluffy.
– 1 tsp vanilla extract: Just a splash of this lovely stuff enhances all the flavors! Use pure vanilla for the best taste.
– ½ tsp salt: Just a pinch to bring out the sweetness!
For the frosting:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Again! This makes our frosting rich and creamy.
– 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweet, fluffy goodness to decorate our cake.
– 2 tbsp heavy cream: This adds a luxurious texture to our frosting. Can’t go wrong with a bit of cream!
– 1 tsp vanilla extract: More flavor magic!
– 2-3 tbsp strawberry puree: To bring that beautiful strawberry flavor right into the frosting.
Is Juicy Homemade Strawberry Sheet Cake Good for You?
Let’s face it, cake isn’t usually hailed as a superfood, but there are some surprising goodies in this recipe! The fresh strawberries are packed with vitamins C and A, and they have antioxidants that contribute to a healthy diet—score! On the flip side, while this cake does have its healthier elements, it also contains sugar and butter, so moderation is key. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider enjoying a small slice or opt for the variations I’ll mention later.
When enjoying this decadent dessert, remember: balance is everything! Pairing this cake with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt can provide a fresh and satisfying bite. There’s no reason we can’t enjoy a slice (or two) of deliciousness from time to time!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ tsp salt
**For the Frosting**:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2-3 tbsp strawberry puree (from fresh strawberries)
How to Make Juicy Homemade Strawberry Sheet Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Trust me, this step makes a world of difference when it comes time to slice that beautiful cake.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Imagine clouds of sweetness – that’s what we’re going for!
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Feel free to hum a little tune while you combine everything—it makes it more fun!
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. We don’t want to over-do it!
5. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries—no need to smash them, just let them join the party.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. It’s like painting a canvas, and this one is going to be a masterpiece!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and keep mixing. Then, incorporate the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree until smooth and silky. A good frosting deserves a bit of dance while you whip it up!
9. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. It’s like a big, fluffy blanket for your cake!
10. For the final touch, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices if desired. Pretty and delicious? Yes, please!
Slice of Cake, A Spoonful of Fun!
– Serve chilled for a refreshing taste—it’s like a summer day in your mouth!
– This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
– Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. But let’s be real, good luck keeping this cake around that long!
I can’t wait for you to try this Juicy Homemade Strawberry Sheet Cake! The sweetness, the fruitiness, the fluffy cake, and the dreamy frosting—it’s all there waiting for you. Bake, share, enjoy, and please let me know how it turns out! Your feedback is like sweet sprinkles on top of my baking world. Happy baking!
