Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a cake that feels like a burst of summer in every slice, this Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine a tender, fluffy cake infused with real strawberry puree and studded with juicy bits of fresh strawberries, crowned generously with luscious, creamy buttercream that’s bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. This cake not only looks stunning with its soft pink hue and fresh strawberry garnish, but it’s also perfectly balanced in sweetness and moisture, making it a delightful centerpiece for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this recipe, and luckily, they’re simple staples that pack a punch in taste and texture. Each one plays a vital role, from the all-purpose flour creating that soft crumb, to the fresh strawberries lending authentic flavor and natural color that make this cake truly stand out.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure without weighing down the cake.
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and fruity flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb texture.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake irresistibly moist.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens with just the right intensity.
• 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and help with rise.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with comforting warmth.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Balances the batter’s consistency for softness.
• 1/2 cup pureed strawberries: Infuses real strawberry flavor and natural pink color.
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and extra moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries: Bites of fresh fruit that surprise with every forkful.
• A few drops of pink food coloring (optional): Enhances the cake’s pretty, strawberry tone.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream): Creates a ultra-creamy base for the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: For signature sweet and smooth buttercream sweetness.
• 1/4 cup pureed strawberries (for buttercream): Infuses the frosting with fresh fruit brightness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream): Adds depth and balances the strawberry flavor.
• A pinch of salt (for buttercream): Elevates and rounds out the frosting’s sweetness.
• Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional): Because a pop of fresh fruit on top always steals the show.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper to make sure your cakes come out perfectly without sticking. Taking time here means smoother layers down the line.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. This combination ensures your cake rises with an even crumb and gets that tender texture we all love.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates a fluffy base full of air, which makes your cake soft and delightful.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and evenly mixed. Stir in the vanilla extract to layer in that warm, welcoming aroma.

Step 5: Combine Milk, Pureed Strawberries, and Sour Cream

In a small bowl, mix together the whole milk, pureed strawberries, and sour cream. This mixture brings moistness, a lovely strawberry flavor, and just a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Step 6: Alternate Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and pink food coloring if you want that extra pretty hue.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Fresh Strawberry Buttercream

Beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar until the mixture is silky smooth. Fold in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The result is a luscious buttercream bursting with fresh strawberry flavor that perfectly complements the cake.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once the cakes have completely cooled, spread a generous layer of buttercream between each layer, on the top, and around the sides. Finally, top with fresh strawberries if you like. The combination of soft cake and fruity, creamy frosting is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries sliced or whole make the perfect garnish, adding a vibrant pop of color that matches the flavors inside. You can also sprinkle edible rose petals or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch that will wow your guests.

Side Dishes

This strawberry cake pairs beautifully with a simple dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to elevate the dessert experience. For something lighter, serve alongside a fresh berry salad or a delicate fruit compote to complement the strawberry theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider stacking individual mini cakes or cupcakes with the same layers and frosting for a charming twist. You can pipe the fresh strawberry buttercream in pretty swirls or use fresh strawberry slices to create intricate patterns atop the cake. No matter how you present it, this cake is sure to be the star of any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe covered in an airtight cake container or wrapped gently in plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated to maintain the freshness of the strawberries and buttercream; it should stay delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting. Fully frosted cakes freeze best when wrapped well, but the texture of the fresh strawberries may soften slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as the buttercream can melt and lose its consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for maintaining texture and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s texture.

Is this recipe suitable for high altitude baking?

If you’re baking at high altitude, reducing the baking powder slightly and adding an extra tablespoon of flour can help maintain the cake’s structure and prevent it from rising too quickly then collapsing.

Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe relies on butter, eggs, and sour cream, so making it vegan would require several substitutions such as vegan butter, flax eggs, and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. The texture and flavor may change, but with some experimentation, you can achieve a delicious version.

How can I prevent my strawberry cake from being soggy?

Ensure you don’t add too much strawberry puree—stick to the recipe amounts—and be careful not to overmix the batter. Baking the layers just until a toothpick comes out clean also helps prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to puree the strawberries for this recipe?

The easiest way is to pulse fresh strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth. If you want a finer texture in the cake and frosting, you can strain the puree to remove seeds, but it’s not necessary.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that tastes like sunshine captured in a slice, the Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe is your answer. It’s an absolute joy to bake and share, and every forkful reminds you why homemade cakes are simply unbeatable. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring a little strawberry magic into your kitchen today!

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