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Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Frosting

A delightful cake that captures the essence of summer with fresh strawberries and a fluffy strawberry frosting, perfect for celebrations and cozy afternoons.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour For structure and tender crumbs.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Lifts the cake to a light, airy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Keeps the crumb rich and moist; substitute coconut oil for dairy-free.
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar Sweetness; reduce to 1 1/2 cups for a less-sweet option.
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature Gives structure and silkiness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Rounds the flavors.
  • 1 cup whole milk, room temperature Swap for almond milk for a nutty note.
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed The heart of the cake; use frozen if needed.

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Or use vegan butter for a dairy-free frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted For a smooth, pipeable frosting.
  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree For color and flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Lifts the strawberry notes.
  • pinch salt To keep the sweetness honest.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans and line with parchment.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until pale and light—about 3–4 minutes.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
  • Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
  • Fold in the strawberry puree gently to keep the batter airy and pink.

Baking

  • Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto racks to cool completely.

Frosting Assembly

  • Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, blending in strawberry puree and vanilla until smooth.
  • Level cakes if needed, spread a layer of frosting between layers, crumb coat, chill for 10 minutes, then finish frosting the cake. Decorate with fresh strawberry slices.

Notes

For variations, swap fresh strawberries for roasted ones for a deeper flavor, or turn it into a sheet cake for easy transport. For a healthier option, replace half the sugar with a substitute and use whole wheat pastry flour.
Keyword Baking, Cake Recipe, Frosting Recipe, Strawberry Cake, Summer Dessert