There’s a magic that unfolds in the kitchen when summer’s sweet strawberries arrive. Their ruby red hue and intoxicating aroma beckon you to create something extraordinary, something that captures the essence of the season. Imagine a cake—fluffy, moist, and bursting with strawberry goodness, slathered in a rich cream cheese frosting that’s not just sweet but carries a tangy bite. This Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting has become a family favorite, evoking memories of laughter filled gatherings and sun-drenched afternoons. It’s the cake that turns ordinary moments into unforgettable celebrations.

Recipe Timing

Prep Duration: 1 hour
Active Cooking: 45 minutes
Total Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Portion Size: 12 servings
Complexity: Moderate

Nutritional Recipe

Calories per portion: approximately 320 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Carbs: 45 g
Fats: 15 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 28 g
Sodium: 210 mg

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This cake is a delightful ode to strawberries, harmonizing texture and flavor like a beautiful symphony. The tender crumb of cake envelops a sweetened strawberry essence, while delicate notes of vanilla dance throughout each slice. The vibrant cream cheese frosting complements the cake, creating a wonderful contrast that’s sweet but not overly so—just perfection on a plate. This cake is a treat, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a slice after a long day. It’s the type of dessert that sits proudly at the center of your table, inviting everyone to share in its beauty and flavor.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Cooking this Strawberry Cake isn’t just about following steps—it’s about the joy of creating something special. From reducing fresh strawberries into a syrupy essence to patiently awaiting the cake to cool before frosting it to the brim with luscious cream cheese topping, every part is an adventure. You’ll love how each step fills your kitchen with the aroma of vanilla and fresh strawberries, leading to a truly rewarding experience.

Ingredients:

32 oz (908 g) fresh strawberries, hulled
2 1/2 cups (280 g) cake flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
6 large egg whites, at room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120 ml) strawberry reduction from above
3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
2 1/4 cups (292 g) powdered sugar
1 cup (25 g) freeze-dried strawberries
1/4 cup (60 ml) strawberry reduction from above
1/2 cup (120 ml) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
1/4 cup (60 ml) strawberry reduction from above

Method:

Step 1: Puree the Strawberries

Add the hulled fresh strawberries to a food processor and pulse until fully pureed. Transfer the puree to a large pot and cook over medium heat for 55-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces to about 1 cup (240 ml). Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. This can be made a few days ahead and refrigerated.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg Whites and Vanilla

Incorporate the egg whites and vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until the mixture turns pale and smooth, approximately 1 minute.

Step 6: Mix in Buttermilk and Strawberry Reduction

Mix in the buttermilk and 1/2 cup of the cooled strawberry reduction. Beat until just combined on medium speed.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure an even batter.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 43-46 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Gently lift the cake from the pan using the parchment paper and continue cooling completely on the wire rack.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat softened butter on high speed with a mixer for about 5 minutes until pale and fluffy. Add cold cream cheese and continue beating on high speed for 1 minute until fluffy.

Step 11: Add Sugar and Strawberry Flavor

Sift powdered sugar into the bowl gradually and mix on low to medium-low speed until fully incorporated. Place freeze-dried strawberries in a Ziploc bag and crush to a fine powder using a rolling pin or food processor. Add this powder and 1/4 cup strawberry reduction to the frosting, mixing on medium-low then high speed until very fluffy.

Step 12: Whip the Cream Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup strawberry reduction and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. In the same or separate bowl, whip heavy cream on high speed with an electric mixer until firm peaks form.

Step 13: Fold the Mixtures Together

Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture until homogenous. Transfer this cream to a piping bag and set aside until assembly.

Step 14: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, transfer it to a serving plate. Poke holes evenly across the surface using a wooden stick or spoon handle. Pipe the strawberry cream into the holes made in the cake.

Step 15: Frost and Finish

Spread a generous, thick layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake. Sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the frosting and decorate with fresh strawberries if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This heavenly cake pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade complements each bite beautifully, cutting through the sweetness. For a breakfast treat, serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee—it’s delightful with your morning brew!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake without the frosting for up to a month. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge again.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your buttermilk and egg whites are at room temperature to create the fluffiest batter.
Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake tender.
Use Fresh Strawberries: The fresher your strawberries, the better the flavor! Look for vibrant, ripe berries for maximum sweetness.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy lift.
Different Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple whipped cream frosting for a lighter touch.
Add Nuts: Finely chopped almonds or pecans can lend a delightful crunch to the cake.

Reader Questions & Solutions

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing.
How do I know if my cake is done?
A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Trust your sense of smell; the aroma of a baking cake is also a great indicator!
What’s the best way to store leftover frosting?
Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Re-whip to soften it before using.
Can I bake this as cupcakes?
Yes! Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for about 18-20 minutes.

Wrapping Up

As you embark on this culinary journey of crafting your Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, remember that the heart of this recipe is about bringing people together. Celebrate the process, embrace imperfection, and savor each bite. Trust me, once you take that first slice and see the glorious strawberry-studded layers, you’ll understand why this cake is a true favorite. Happy baking!