Description
Dive into berry bliss with this Ultimate Strawberry Cake! Bursting with juicy sweetness in every scrumptious bite, it’s perfect for your next celebration or just because! Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this delightful dessert is sure to impress everyone.
Ingredients
- For the Strawberry Reduction:
- 24 oz (680 g) fresh or frozen strawberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Cake:
- 14 oz (397 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 oz (114 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 oz (114 g) vegetable oil
- 14 oz (397 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 8 oz (227 g) buttermilk, room temperature
- 4 oz (113 g) strawberry reduction
- For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 8 oz (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 32 oz (907 g) powdered sugar
- 4 oz (113 g) strawberry reduction
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Reduction
In a saucepan, cook 24 oz of strawberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over medium heat until reduced to a chunky jam. Allow to cool and set aside. This strawberry reduction will be the star of the cake.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Cake Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8” round cake pans with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together 14 oz of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of unsalted butter and 4 oz of vegetable oil until smooth. Add 14 oz of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is fluffy.
Step 5: Add Eggs
One by one, add 4 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and 8 oz of buttermilk to the batter, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Step 7: Incorporate Strawberry Reduction
Fold in 4 oz of the cooled strawberry reduction into the cake batter for a delightful berry flavor.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool before frosting.
Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of unsalted butter and 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 32 oz of powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, swirl in the remaining 4 oz of strawberry reduction for a beautiful pink frosting.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of strawberry frosting in between the layers, then top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake, and decorate with fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes
Tip for Strawberry Reduction
Make sure to cool the strawberry reduction completely before adding it to the cake batter and frosting for the best texture.
Serving Suggestion
This cake is perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying during a cozy afternoon with friends and family.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving Size Information
Each decadent slice contains approximately 450 calories, making it a delightful treat for special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes