There’s nothing quite like the sweet, juicy burst of a strawberry cake on a warm summer day. Imagine slicing into that tender, fluffy cake only to reveal vibrant red strawberries nestled within, their sweetness spilling out with every cut. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a delightful flavor explosion that will dance on your taste buds and make you feel like you’re basking in the sunshine.
Every bite transports me back to my childhood, where birthday parties meant strawberry cake and laughter. I remember my mom whipping it up, her laughter mingling with the scent of fresh strawberries and whipped cream. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration waiting to happen, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply indulging yourself after a long day. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This strawberry cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- The luscious flavor profile will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Its stunning visual appeal makes it the centerpiece of any gathering
- Versatile enough to enjoy year-round, this cake fits any occasion from birthdays to casual dinners
I once made this strawberry cake for my best friend’s wedding shower, and let’s just say it stole the show!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; they should be bright red and fragrant.
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All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that provides structure; sifted flour helps create a lighter texture.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter perfectly; consider using less if your strawberries are super sweet.
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Baking Powder: This leavening agent is essential for fluffiness; don’t forget to check its freshness before use!
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Eggs: Fresh eggs add richness and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
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Unsalted Butter: This brings richness to the cake; make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
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Milk: Whole milk adds moisture and tenderness; you can substitute with buttermilk for extra flavor.
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Vanilla Extract: For that comforting aroma; opt for pure vanilla extract if possible for better flavor.
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Heavy Whipping Cream: For frosting that’s rich and creamy; chill it before whipping to achieve maximum volume.
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Powdered Sugar: This is key for sweetening your frosting without grittiness; sift before using to avoid lumps.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat That Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or nonstick spray so your cake doesn’t stick like a stubborn ex.
Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You want this mixture to look like fluffy clouds—light and airy! Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Dry Ingredients Unite
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients while alternating with milk. Mix until just combined—overmixing leads to tough cake!
Strawberry Time
Gently fold in chopped strawberries into the batter. The excitement builds as you see those red gems scattered throughout the mixture! Pour evenly into prepared pans.
Bake Away
Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing—like summer in a bowl.
Cool Down
Remove cakes from ovens and let them cool in pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely—as hard as it may be not to sneak a piece!
Frosting Perfection
While cakes cool down, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you get fluffy frosting perfection. Spread generously between layers once cooled.
Assemble Like A Pro
Place one layer on a serving plate and slather frosting on top before adding the second layer. Top with more frosting and garnish with fresh strawberries—you want everyone to know this is not just any cake!
Now take a moment… admire your masterpiece before slicing into it!
And there you have it: an irresistible strawberry cake that’ll make anyone swoon! Enjoy every last bite because life is too short not to indulge in deliciousness!
You Must Know
- This strawberry cake recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer
- Its vibrant color and sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering
- Don’t forget to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven. Mix the dry ingredients while creaming butter and sugar, then gradually add eggs and milk before folding in strawberries. This sequence ensures even mixing for a perfectly fluffy cake.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add vanilla extract or almond flavoring for an extra layer of deliciousness that will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover strawberry cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave to preserve moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure better mixing and fluffy texture
- Be careful not to overmix once you add the strawberries; this keeps your cake light and airy
- Lastly, let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
Sometimes, when I serve this cake, my kids fight over who gets the last piece—it’s that good! Their happy faces make every bit of effort worth it.

FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries in my strawberry cake?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
How do I know when my strawberry cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
What’s the best frosting for strawberry cake?
Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with strawberry cake, adding tangy sweetness to each bite.
Strawberry Cake
Strawberry cake is a delightful summer treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a fluffy, tender cake base. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit at picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its beautiful layers and luscious whipped cream frosting, each slice offers a burst of flavor that will transport you back to your childhood memories. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this strawberry cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every bite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with milk.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Frost between cake layers and on top; garnish with fresh strawberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg

