The Best Strawberry Cake Ever

Prepare to indulge in a slice of pure bliss with this recipe for The Best Strawberry Cake Ever. Bursting with the sweet and tangy essence of fresh strawberries, this cake is a celebration of springtime in every bite. Moist, fluffy, and utterly irresistible, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to summer picnics. Whether you’re a strawberry lover or simply in search of the ultimate crowd-pleaser, this cake is sure to steal the show and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Mixing bowls
2. Electric mixer
3. 9-inch round cake pans (2)
4. Parchment paper
5. Cooling rack
6. Cake stand or serving plate

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh strawberries, sliced or whole

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Cake: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Fold in the pureed strawberries until evenly distributed.
3. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
6. Garnish (optional): Decorate the top of the cake with fresh strawberry slices or whole strawberries for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into this heavenly creation and savor the luscious combination of moist cake and creamy frosting. Each bite is a symphony of sweetness and strawberry goodness that will have everyone coming back for more.

With its vibrant color and irresistible flavor, The Best Strawberry Cake Ever is sure to become a favorite dessert in your repertoire. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as a delightful everyday treat, this cake is guaranteed to bring joy and smiles to all who indulge in its deliciousness.