Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a dazzling dessert that tastes like a little slice of summer, this Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe is bound to become your new favorite. Light, fluffy layers of golden cake paired with luscious whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries create a harmony of flavors and textures that feels both elegant and effortlessly fresh. It’s a treat that’s surprisingly easy to master, yet impressive enough to share with friends, family, or anyone who appreciates a beautifully crafted homemade cake. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet weekend indulgence, this Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe promises moments of pure joy with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the first step toward making this Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe shine. Each component plays an essential role in building the cake’s tender crumb, creamy texture, and delightful fruity freshness.

• 5 eggs, room temperature: Key for structure and lightness in the cake layers.
• 150 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft crumb.
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake and cream with warm, comforting aroma.
• 50 ml (¼ cup) vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without overpowering flavors.
• 50 ml (¼ cup) milk or water: Enhances batter smoothness and tenderness.
• 120 g (1 cup) cake flour: Provides a delicate texture suited perfectly for sponge cakes.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Gives cake layers a gentle rise.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• ½ tsp cream of tartar or fresh lemon juice: Stabilizes egg whites for fluffy meringue peaks.
• 350 g (1 ½ cups) heavy cream, full-fat and cold: Whips into rich, velvety cream for the filling and topping.
• 3 to 4 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a luscious flavor to the cream.
• 1–1 ½ tbsp cornstarch or ½ tsp cream of tartar (optional): Used for stabilizing whipped cream if you want it extra sturdy.
• 250 g (1 ¼ cups) fresh strawberries, sliced: The star ingredient for fresh, sweet fruit flavor.
• 1–2 tbsp granulated sugar: Macerates strawberries to release natural juices and soften.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Greasing is optional for unlined aluminum pans, but make sure to prepare three 6-inch (15 cm) cake pans carefully; this will help you bake even layers perfect for stacking.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

Sifting the cake flour together with salt and baking powder ensures that your batter will be smooth and airy, helping achieve that tender crumb we love in a sponge cake.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with vegetable oil, most of the sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until completely combined and smooth. This mixture forms the rich base of the cake batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gently whisk the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you get a smooth batter. Mixing carefully is key so you don’t lose the air you just incorporated.

Step 5: Whip Egg Whites

Using a stand mixer, beat the egg whites on medium-low speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and the rest of the sugar, then whip on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. This meringue lightens the cake spectacularly.

Step 6: Fold Meringue into Batter

Fold a small amount of meringue into the batter quickly to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining meringue with gentle, sweeping strokes to keep it airy and full of volume.

Step 7: Pour and Prepare Batter in Pans

Distribute the batter evenly between the three pans. Run a knife through each to release trapped air bubbles — this step ensures an even bake and smooth tops.

Step 8: Bake the Cake Layers

Bake on the middle rack for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cakes look golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This signals the perfect sponge has formed.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes Properly

Once baked, invert the cakes and let them cool upside down for at least 1 ½ hours. Cooling this way will help retain the cake’s volume and tenderness.

Step 10: Macerate the Strawberries

Toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar, cover them, and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps the berries release their natural juices and become delectably sweetened without becoming mushy.

Step 11: Whip the Cream

In a bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Optionally, add cornstarch or cream of tartar to stabilize the cream if you want it to hold shape longer.

Step 12: Assemble the Cake Layers

Layer the cake by spreading whipped cream and then a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat and finish with a smooth crumb coat of cream all around the cake for a lovely, polished look.

Step 13: Chill and Optional Finishing Touches

Refrigerate your assembled creation for at least 1 hour before serving. For an extra special touch, drizzle homemade strawberry sauce on top right before serving to amp up the berry love.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh whole strawberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a few mint leaves add a pretty, fresh finish that invites compliments before the first bite. A dollop of whipped cream on each serving plate makes the experience even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a fresh fruit salad, or even a crisp glass of sparkling rosé to balance the creaminess and sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake in individual clear glasses as layered parfaits or cut into petite squares for a charming mini dessert table display. Another fun idea is to sandwich the cake pieces between thick slices of fresh strawberries for extra berry delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe refrigerated in an airtight container or covered loosely with plastic wrap to preserve freshness. It will remain delightful for up to 2 days, but fresh is always best.

Freezing

Freezing a fully assembled cake isn’t ideal due to the whipped cream and fresh berries, which can lose texture. Instead, freeze the cake layers separately wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw layers in the fridge before assembling and decorating.

Reheating

Because this is a fresh cream and fruit cake, reheating is not recommended. Serve cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture—warm cream just won’t have the same magic!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones that have been fully thawed and drained well. Just keep in mind the fruit may be softer and release more juice.

How do I stabilize the whipped cream so it doesn’t weep?

Adding a bit of cornstarch or cream of tartar to the whipped cream during whipping helps maintain structure, making it less likely to separate or weep after assembling the cake.

Can I make this Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with a thick coconut cream and use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. The whipped coconut cream adds a lovely texture and pairs beautifully with strawberries.

What if I don’t have cake flour?

You can make a cake flour substitute by measuring 1 cup of all-purpose flour, removing 2 tablespoons, and replacing them with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift together before using for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this cake in one large pan instead of three?

Yes, but the baking time will increase and the cake won’t be as tall or layered unless you slice it horizontally after baking. Using three smaller pans simplifies layering and gives more surface area for the cream and strawberries.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking and sharing this Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the sweetness of fresh strawberries, wrapped in clouds of tender cake and rich cream. I hope you enjoy making it just as much as you love indulging in every luscious bite—this cake is truly a heartfelt delight that brightens any day.

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