Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

If you’re eager to delight your taste buds with a cake that bursts with fresh fruity goodness and creamy sweetness, you’ve found your new favorite: the Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe. This charming cake is a heavenly marriage of tender layers infused with diced strawberries and a luscious strawberry buttercream frosting that’s smooth, sweet, and just the right balance of tangy and rich. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of summer on your plate, this recipe is sure to make your dessert table the star of the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to bring out perfect texture, flavor, and that irresistible strawberry aroma. From the all-purpose flour that forms the cake’s soft base to the fresh strawberries that add an authentic fruitiness, every component plays a vital role.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the cake layers.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully for a light texture.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Adds lift and works with the sour cream to create moisture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus 1 cup for buttercream): Adds richness and creaminess to both cake and frosting.
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly, balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the batter together and contribute to its fluffiness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warm, mellow notes that complement the fruit.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a subtle tang.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and blends ingredients for smooth batter.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced: The star ingredient that injects juicy bursts and beautiful color throughout the cake.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Essential for the fluffy, sweet strawberry buttercream frosting.
• 1/4 cup strawberry puree: Intensifies the strawberry flavor in the frosting for a fresh, vibrant taste.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the buttercream, making it perfectly flavorful.

How to Make Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans for even baking, plus line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release later on. A little prep here sets the stage for perfect cakes.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix ensures that your leavening agents and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration step is crucial for a tender and airy cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the butter mixture. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the cake’s fragrant sweetness.

Step 5: Combine Milk and Sour Cream

In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and whole milk together. This creamy blend will bring moisture and a hint of tanginess that complements the strawberries brilliantly.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk Mixture

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk blend. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the cake tender.

Step 7: Fold in Diced Strawberries

Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries so that their natural juices infuse the batter without breaking apart and turning the whole mixture pink.

Step 8: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops for even baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfect bake.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes to set, then carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 10: Make the Strawberry Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then the strawberry puree, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy and irresistibly smooth.

Step 11: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of strawberry buttercream over the top. Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. For a finishing touch, you can garnish with fresh strawberries.

How to Serve Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh whole or sliced strawberries on top makes for an inviting burst of color and flavor, complementing the strawberry-infused layers perfectly. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible flower petals can also elevate the cake’s appearance effortlessly.

Side Dishes

This strawberry cake pairs wonderfully with fresh whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a simple berry compote. These sides add more textures and complement the moist strawberry flavors of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, try adding edible pearls, drizzling white chocolate, or arranging the cake on a rustic wooden board with fresh flowers. You can also serve individual slices with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers separately by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and then foil. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting or serving.

Reheating

For an optimal experience, bring refrigerated slices to room temperature before eating. Avoid microwaving to prevent any compromise in texture or flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are preferred for this recipe to maintain texture and flavor, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for cakes, you can enjoy a gluten-free version, though texture might vary slightly.

How do I make the strawberry puree for the buttercream?

Simply blend fresh strawberries until smooth, then strain through a fine sieve to remove seeds for a silky puree perfect for frosting.

Can I substitute sour cream in the cake batter?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, which similarly adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the cake.

How long will the strawberry buttercream keep?

Keep the buttercream refrigerated in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to one week. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Final Thoughts

After making this Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Buttercream Recipe, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved classic for any strawberry lover. It’s a delightful blend of freshness, sweetness, and texture that brings joy with every bite. Don’t hesitate to bake it for your next get-together and watch people’s faces light up with every forkful!

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