Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are looking for a show-stopping, irresistible dessert that bursts with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh berries, this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine moist, tender cake layers infused with luscious strawberry reduction, paired beautifully with a creamy, velvety frosting that balances sweet and tang perfectly. This recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the vibrant flavor of strawberries in a dessert that is both classic and delightfully fresh. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this strawberry cake will quickly become a beloved favorite at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though this recipe may seem detailed, the ingredients are refreshingly simple, each playing a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture and remarkable flavor. From fresh strawberries to creamy butter and fluffy egg whites, every component has its part in creating this luscious treat.

• 32 oz fresh strawberries, hulled: These are the star, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color throughout the cake and frosting.
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour: Gives the cake a tender crumb that’s soft yet sturdy enough for frosting.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly for a light texture.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda: Works with buttermilk to give a subtle lift and tenderness.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 10 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the strawberry flavor.
• 6 large egg whites, room temperature: Provide structure and lift, making the cake airy and light.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Contributes moistness and slight tang, enhancing the strawberry notes.
• 1/2 cup strawberry reduction: Concentrated strawberry essence used in both the cake and frosting to amplify flavor.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): The creamy base of the frosting for a smooth, luscious finish.
• 6 oz cold cream cheese: Provides tangy richness and stability to the frosting.
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadable consistency.
• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries: Crushed into powder, these add vibrant pink color and intense strawberry flavor to the frosting.
• 1/4 cup strawberry reduction: Added to frosting for extra burst of strawberry goodness.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Gives the cream filling a luscious, velvety sweetness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Whipped to firm peaks for a light, airy texture in the filling.
• 1/4 cup strawberry reduction: Mixed into the cream filling to tie the strawberry theme throughout the cake.

How to Make Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Create the Strawberry Reduction

Start by processing your hulled fresh strawberries into a puree using a food processor. Then, cook this puree gently over medium heat for about an hour until it thickens into a rich, intense strawberry reduction. This step builds the foundation of flavor for both your cake and frosting, so be patient—it’s worth the wait! You can even make this a few days ahead and store in the fridge, which makes the overall baking day much smoother.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray, and line it with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases effortlessly from the pan later—no stress when it’s time to serve!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This combination is the backbone of your cake, balancing lift and tenderness for that ideal crumb.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—typically about 2 minutes. This process incorporates air which helps create a soft and airy cake. It’s a simple step with a big impact on texture.

Step 5: Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

Slowly add the egg whites and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until the batter lightens in color and becomes smooth. The whipped egg whites bring a delicate lift, making the cake wonderfully soft.

Step 6: Incorporate Buttermilk and Strawberry Reduction

Add the buttermilk and half a cup of your cooled strawberry reduction into the batter. Beat on medium speed just until combined. The buttermilk’s tang and the strawberry’s sweetness work hand in hand to create a moist, flavorful cake base.

Step 7: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients slowly while mixing on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined, avoiding overmixing. Scrape the bowl sides as needed to ensure an even, smooth batter without lumps.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 43 to 46 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. When the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Then carefully lift it out using the parchment paper and set it on the rack to cool completely. This ensures your cake layers hold their shape and are ready for frosting.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter on high speed for about 5 minutes until fluffy and pale. Add the cold cream cheese and beat again until light and full of air—this creates a silky, soft frosting base you’ll love.

Step 11: Add Powdered Sugar

Sift powdered sugar gradually into the mixture and beat on low to medium-low speed until smooth. This step sweetens and thickens the frosting, making it perfect to spread.

Step 12: Incorporate Freeze-Dried Strawberries and Strawberry Reduction

Crush freeze-dried strawberries until they become a fine, fragrant powder. Add this powder along with a quarter cup of strawberry reduction to the frosting. Beat until the frosting turns bright pink and very fluffy, bringing that signature strawberry flavor forward in an elevated way.

Step 13: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Filling

Whisk together 1/4 cup strawberry reduction and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. This mixture will be folded into whipped cream for a luscious filling that surprises with extra strawberry flavor.

Step 14: Whip Heavy Cream

Whip the heavy cream on high speed until you have firm, glossy peaks. This aerated cream is the light and airy contrast to the rich cream cheese frosting.

Step 15: Fold Strawberry Mixture into Whipped Cream

Gently fold the strawberry-condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream. This delicate folding keeps the cream light while infusing it with creamy, fruity goodness.

Step 16: Prepare the Cake for Filling

Once your cake has completely cooled, transfer it to a serving plate. Use a wooden stick or spoon handle to poke holes evenly across the cake surface. These cavities will hold the strawberry cream filling, adding a delightful burst of flavor and moisture inside the cake.

Step 17: Fill the Cake

Pipe the strawberry cream filling into the holes you made earlier. This indulgent step guarantees every bite has a creamy strawberry surprise that makes this cake uniquely special.

Step 18: Frost the Cake

Spread a generous, thick layer of the prepared strawberry cream cheese frosting all over the top of the cake. This luscious blanket brings the entire dessert together with creamy sweetness and a lovely pink hue.

Step 19: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the frosting to add a beautiful texture and intensified strawberry flavor. Decorate with some fresh strawberries if you like, then serve immediately and watch smiles bloom all around your table.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh, sliced strawberries are a classic and gorgeous garnish for this cake. To elevate the look, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few mint leaves for color contrast. Crushed freeze-dried strawberries sprinkled on top add a wonderful texture and a burst of concentrated flavor that complements the creamy frosting beautifully.

Side Dishes

Light and fresh sides like a simple mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a bowl of vanilla bean ice cream make lovely companions. These offer balance by cutting through the creaminess of the cake and keeping the meal from feeling too heavy. Plus, a cup of lightly brewed green or herbal tea pairs wonderfully to cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into small squares for a party platter where guests can grab a perfect bite. Alternatively, serve this strawberry cake layered with extra piped cream between each slice for a decadent presentation. For a rustic look, leave the edges unfrosted and simply top with fresh strawberry slices and edible flowers for a charming, garden-party feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. Because of the cream cheese frosting and strawberry cream filling, refrigeration keeps the cake fresh and prevents spoilage for up to 3 days while maintaining texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cake layers before frosting. Wrap cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before assembling and frosting. The fully frosted cake is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream cheese frosting’s texture may change when thawed.

Reheating

This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. Because it contains cream cheese frosting and fresh fillings, reheating is not recommended as it can affect texture and flavor. Simply allow refrigerated cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring out the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are preferred for the best flavor and texture in this recipe. However, if frozen strawberries are your only option, thaw and drain them well before making the reduction to avoid extra liquid that might affect the cake consistency.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using as a substitute. This mimics the acidity buttermilk provides, which is important for tenderizing the cake.

How do I crush freeze-dried strawberries?

Place freeze-dried strawberries in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to crush them into a fine powder. A food processor or spice grinder works well too. This powder enriches the flavor and color of the frosting wonderfully.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute cake flour with a gluten-free baking blend that is designed for cakes. Keep in mind texture and rise might vary slightly, so testing a small batch first is a good idea.

How early can I assemble the cake?

You can prepare the strawberry reduction up to several days in advance, and bake the cake a day before assembling. Once frosted, it’s best to serve within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Keep the cake refrigerated until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a celebration of vibrant strawberry flavor wrapped in tender, fluffy cake and smooth, tangy frosting. It feels like a burst of summer joy no matter the season. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a heartfelt crowd-pleaser that brings smiles and sweet memories with every bite.

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