Introduction:
Strawberry Cake with Frosting is a delightful and vibrant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to summer parties. This cake features fresh strawberries incorporated into a moist, tender cake, topped with a rich and creamy strawberry frosting. The combination of fresh strawberries and sweet frosting makes this cake irresistible and a sure hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups (320g) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) strawberry puree (made from fresh strawberries)
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) strawberry puree (made from fresh strawberries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional Additions:
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
- A few drops of red food coloring for a deeper pink hue
Instructions:
1. Make the Strawberry Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree until well incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Strawberry Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to enhance the pink color of the frosting.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a generous amount of strawberry frosting over the top of the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor in both the cake and frosting.
- Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm up before frosting the cake.
Nutritional Estimate:
(Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 73g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 55g
- Protein: 4g
Recommendation:
Strawberry Cake with Frosting is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of cold milk.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cake with Frosting!