Homemade Strawberry Cake
This easy Homemade Strawberry Cake blends fresh strawberries and vanilla for a delightful dessert that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Essentials
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour the base for a soft, classic crumb
- 1 cups granulated sugar keeps the cake sweet and family-approved
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened adds tenderness and flavor
- 2 large eggs bind and lift the cake
- 0.5 cups milk keeps the batter moist (any milk works)
- 0.5 cups strawberry puree (fresh strawberries blended) real fruit flavor without gelatin or artificial colors
- 2 teaspoons baking powder key leavening for a light cake
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract rounds and deepens the strawberry notes
- 0.25 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1 cups strawberries, sliced for garnish and extra fresh bites
- 1 batch Creamy strawberry frosting store-bought or homemade for layering and covering the cake
Optional Add-ons
- 1 whole lemon, zest a small zing that brightens strawberry flavor
- 1 handful mini chocolate chips for kids who request 'chocolate, please'
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup or honey in the frosting adds shine and spreadability
- 1 handful toasted sliced almonds adds crunch for adults
- 1 splash heavy cream in the frosting makes it extra silky
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round pans, or line with parchment paper if preferred.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until pale and slightly fluffy for about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla and strawberry puree until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet batter in three parts, alternating with the milk.
- Split the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Baking
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Serving
- Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides.
- Garnish with sliced strawberries and serve.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the batter as it can make the cake tough. Ensure the cake cools completely before frosting to prevent melting.