Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with our Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake recipe. This sweet treat beautifully marries the richness of a traditional cream cake with the vibrant essence of fresh strawberries. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, buttery cake generously dotted with juicy diced strawberries, enveloped in a luscious cream cheese frosting – it’s a slice of heaven for any occasion.

I first crafted this masterpiece for my daughter’s 10th birthday bash, aiming to strike the perfect balance between a touch of sweetness and the natural fruity goodness of strawberries. The result? A cake that not only met her “pink but not too sweet” criteria but also won over the hearts (and taste buds) of everyone at the party. The subtle sweetness of the strawberries harmonizes flawlessly with the creamy frosting, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

As someone who cherishes the joys of seasonal produce, I stumbled upon this recipe during peak strawberry season – a time when the ruby-red gems were at their prime. While some may raise an eyebrow at the thought of pairing strawberries with coconut, one taste of this creation was all it took to make believers out of my family. Whether you’re savoring a slice at room temperature or indulging in a chilled treat, this Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake promises a delightful experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Quick Benefits

• Richness and Bright Flavor: Combines the richness of a traditional cream cake with the bright flavor of fresh strawberries for a delightful twist on an Italian classic.
• Long-lasting Freshness: Stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.
• Versatile and Seasonal: Can be made with fresh or frozen strawberries, as well as other berries based on seasonal availability. Adaptable for various occasions and pairings.
• Customizable and Adaptable: Allows for customization by omitting pecans or coconut, and can be garnished creatively for an attractive and flavorful finish.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe Recipe

• Delightful Flavor Combination: Combines the richness of a traditional cream cake with the bright flavor of fresh strawberries, creating a perfect balance of sweetness.
• Special Occasion Worthy: Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any special event with its unique twist on an Italian classic.
• Family Favorite: A recipe born out of a birthday request, loved by all for its natural sweetness and perfect blend of flavors.
• Seasonal Flexibility: Adaptable to different seasons with fresh strawberries in spring/summer and frozen berries in winter for year-round enjoyment.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be made ahead, stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for planning ahead for gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a standalone treat, pair with ice cream or beverages like coffee, espresso, champagne, or prosecco for various occasions.
• Customizable: Can be personalized by omitting pecans or coconut, adjusting sugar levels for different berries, or adding garnishes for a visually appealing finish.
• Tips and Substitutions: Helpful tips on using frozen strawberries, making buttermilk substitute, preparing pans, and storing/frosting the cake ensure a successful baking experience.

Ingredients for Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup (90g) sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (150g) diced fresh strawberries
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

Frosting

• 1/2 cup (80g) mashed fresh strawberries
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

Pro Tips for Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

For the freshest flavor, use ripe, in-season strawberries when making this cake. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

To ensure easy removal of the cake from the pan, thoroughly grease and flour your bundt or round pans. Consider using parchment paper for added convenience.

If you’re short on buttermilk, you can easily create a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes. This hack works well in a pinch without compromising the cake’s texture.

Feel free to customize the cake by omitting the pecans or shredded coconut if desired, though they do add delightful texture and flavor to the final product.

When presenting the cake, consider garnishing with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of coconut, or a drizzle of strawberry puree for an eye-catching and tasty finishing touch.

How to Make Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare oven and pan

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour a bundt pan or two 9-inch round pans.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar

Beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Gradually add eggs, beating well after each addition.

Step 3: Mix dry and wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients along with buttermilk.

Step 4: Incorporate remaining ingredients

Combine vanilla extract, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and diced fresh strawberries.

Step 5: Bake cake

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare frosting

Cream together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in mashed strawberries and vanilla extract.

Step 7: Frost and garnish cake

Spread frosting on the cooled cake and top with additional strawberries or shredded coconut, if preferred.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Since the cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration, it’s important to keep the cake chilled. For the best flavor and texture experience, allow slices to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Additionally, you can freeze unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped for up to 3 months, making it convenient for planning ahead for special occasions.

If using frozen strawberries in the cake, ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake. To enhance the presentation of the cake for special occasions, consider garnishing with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of coconut, or a drizzle of strawberry puree. Whether enjoyed on its own, slightly warm with ice cream, or paired with coffee or champagne, this versatile cake is a delightful treat for various occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh strawberries on hand, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake, which could affect the texture.

In the absence of buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle slightly, creating a suitable replacement for buttermilk in the recipe.

While pecans and shredded coconut add a delightful texture and flavor to the cake, you can omit them if you prefer a simpler version. Consider substituting with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different taste profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, slice the homemade strawberry cream cake and serve it on a platter garnished with fresh whole strawberries and a dusting of shredded coconut. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the tropical flavor profile of the cake, making it visually appealing and inviting.

To take this cake to the next level, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. The light and airy texture of the whipped cream complements the richness of the cream cheese frosting, creating a luscious and indulgent dessert experience. Additionally, you can drizzle a bit of strawberry puree on each slice for a burst of fruity brightness that ties all the flavors together beautifully. This elegant touch adds a gourmet flair to the presentation and elevates the overall dining experience for your guests.

FAQs for Delicious Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

How should I prepare the cake pans before pouring the batter?

Grease and flour your bundt or round pans thoroughly. You can also use parchment paper for added ease when removing the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator?

Yes, the cake can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Frost it just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful creation that will impress your loved ones with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a slice of something sweet, this cake is sure to bring joy to all who taste it.

Remember, the key to success with Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and following the recipe with care and attention to detail. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation and garnishes to make this cake truly shine on your dessert table.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the heavenly combination of buttery cake, fresh strawberries, and luscious cream cheese frosting. Homemade Strawberry Cream Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a labor of love that will leave everyone craving for more. Enjoy every bite and savor the sweet moments shared around this delicious treat!