Name: Strawberries and Cream Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency); 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like a warm hug and a sunny picnic all wrapped into one, then this Strawberries and Cream Cake is your new best friend. Imagine layers of tender, fluffy cake infused with vanilla and just a hint of almond, generously filled and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, and crowned with bright, juicy fresh strawberries. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy that instantly lifts your mood and makes any occasion feel special. Get ready to fall head over heels for this timeless classic that shines in simplicity and flavor.

Strawberries and Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward, carefully chosen ingredients come together to create a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and stunning to look at. Each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect layers and frosting that make the Strawberries and Cream Cake so irresistible.

All-purpose flour: The backbone that provides structure and a delicate crumb to the cake layers.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps with moisture retention for a tender bite.
Baking powder: The superstar leavening agent that ensures your cake rises beautifully and stays light.
Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the richness of the frosting.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture, making the cake truly tender.
Eggs: Provide structure and moisture to hold the layers together perfectly.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and light, enhancing the overall softness.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both cake and frosting with its aromatic sweetness.
Almond extract (optional): Gives a subtle nutty twist that deepens the flavor profile beautifully.
Cream cheese (softened): The base for the luscious frosting that adds tanginess and richness.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting perfectly while helping achieve a smooth texture.
Heavy cream: Used to adjust frosting consistency for dreamy spreadability.
Fresh strawberries: Juicy and vibrant, they crown the cake with natural sweetness and stunning color.
Fresh mint leaves (optional): For a refreshing, herbaceous garnish that also looks fantastic.

How to Make Strawberries and Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab two 9-inch round cake pans and get them ready by greasing and flouring or lining with parchment paper. This first step sets the stage for perfectly shaped, easy-to-release cake layers. Next, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; this dry mix will give your cake structure and lift.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This process aerates the batter, ensuring the cake turns out moist and tender. It’s the magic behind the light crumb you’ll adore.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

One by one, beat the eggs into the creamed butter and sugar, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow up with the vanilla extract and, if you’re using it, the almond extract. These additions infuse the batter with rich, inviting flavors that become the soul of the cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Alternately add the dry flour mixture and whole milk into the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry. Stir gently and just enough to combine everything—it’s important to avoid overmixing here, so your layers stay soft and delicate.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops for an even rise. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before gently turning them out onto wire racks. Cooling them completely is key to preventing the frosting from melting and to keep your layers nice and sturdy for decorating.

How to Serve Strawberries and Cream Cake

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the obvious star garnish for the Strawberries and Cream Cake, sliced and artfully arranged atop the creamy frosting. Adding fresh mint leaves brings a pop of green and a fresh aroma that complements the sweetness, making each slice visually stunning and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pairing the cake with a light, citrusy salad or a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates a lovely contrast of textures and flavors. A cup of herbal tea or a sparkling rosé can also elevate your dessert experience by adding refreshing notes to balance the cake’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, try layering the cake in a trifle dish with additional fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a beautiful deconstructed look. Or serve individual mini cakes topped with a strawberry glaze and a sprig of mint for a perfect party treat that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Strawberries and Cream Cake will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, wrapped loosely in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps preserve the freshness of the strawberries and the creamy texture of the frosting.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting and assembling to keep your cake tasting fresh and delicious.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you want a slightly softer texture after refrigeration, simply let a slice sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries work best for this cake because they retain their firmness and vibrant color. Frozen strawberries tend to release extra moisture when thawed, which can make the topping runny. If you must use frozen, drain them well and pat dry.

Is it okay to omit the almond extract?

Absolutely! The almond extract is optional and adds a lovely depth of flavor, but the vanilla extract alone will still produce a wonderfully fragrant and delicious cake.

How do I make the cream cheese frosting less tangy?

If you prefer a milder frosting, try using slightly less cream cheese or adding a touch more powdered sugar and vanilla extract to balance the tanginess without making it overly sweet.

Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?

Yes, doubling the ingredients works perfectly if you want to make a bigger cake. Just be sure to use appropriately sized pans and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I keep the strawberries from bleeding into the frosting?

To minimize bleeding, slice strawberries just before serving and avoid placing very juicy berries directly on the frosting until ready to enjoy. You can also lightly toss them in a bit of sugar to draw out excess juice.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberries and Cream Cake is a true celebration of fresh flavors and classic baking, a dessert that never goes out of style. Its balance of sweetness, creaminess, and fresh fruit feels like summer on a plate no matter the season. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making this delightful cake—once you do, it’s going to be your go-to recipe for every special moment and every time you need a little joyful indulgence.

Strawberries and Cream Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 19 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful Strawberries and Cream Cake featuring moist vanilla cake layers topped with rich cream cheese frosting and fresh, juicy strawberries. This classic dessert combines sweet, tangy, and fruity flavors for a perfect treat.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using for added flavor complexity.
Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients in thirds, alternating with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the cake.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cakes spring back lightly when touched.
Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting over it, then top with some sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top, frost the top and sides evenly, and decorate with the remaining strawberries and optional fresh mint leaves for garnish.

Notes

Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
The almond extract is optional but adds a subtle flavor that complements the strawberries well.
For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries for the topping.
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting; it will keep for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American