What makes a perfect spring dessert? This stunning cake features fresh strawberries and a lightly sweetened white frosting, made easy with a simple homemade recipe using whipped cream and tender love, save this idea for your next family favorite treat.

there is a cake with strawberries on the top and white frosting around it

Introduction

This delightful dessert is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a standout at any gathering. With its moist cake base, sweet and tangy strawberries on top, and a creamy white frosting wrapping it all together, this cake is sure to impress both in terms of flavor and presentation. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and some basic kitchen skills. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to try something new, this recipe is a great choice. It’s a masterclass in how to create something truly special with minimal fuss, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet treat any day of the week.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of the cake, strawberries, and white frosting provides a well-balanced flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making this cake are straightforward and simple, requiring no special equipment or advanced baking techniques. This makes it a great option for those who are new to baking or looking for a quick dessert solution.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a cake that looks and tastes like it was made by a professional. The strawberries add a pop of color, and the white frosting gives it a sleek, polished finish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this cake include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract for the cake; strawberries for the topping; and powdered sugar, butter, and milk or cream for the white frosting. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk for the frosting to cater to dairy-free diets, or substituting the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk the butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
2. Step 2: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Step 3: Once the cakes are cool, you can start preparing the frosting. Beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, adding milk or cream as needed to achieve the right consistency. To assemble the cake, place one of the cooled cakes on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, and then place the second cake on top. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting.
4. Step 4: Finally, prepare your strawberries by washing and slicing them. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cake in a pattern that appeals to you. You can also drizzle with a little honey or sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra flavor and decoration.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the cake batter, as this can result in a dense cake. Stop mixing once the ingredients are just combined.
• For the frosting, adding the powdered sugar gradually and beating well after each addition will help achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
• Avoid overbaking the cakes, as this can make them dry. Keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark, and remove from the oven as soon as they’re done.

Heat Control

For baking the cake, the ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C), and the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This should take about 20-25 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. The sign of doneness is also a slight shrinkage from the sides of the pan and a firm touch on the top.

Crunch Factor

The cake should be moist and tender, while the strawberries on top add a natural sweetness and a bit of texture. The white frosting provides a smooth and creamy element. To achieve the right texture, make sure not to overbake the cakes and handle the strawberries gently to avoid bruising.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Using room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, will help the cake mix come together smoothly and evenly.
• Don’t overbeat the frosting, as this can make it too stiff and separate. Stop beating once it reaches the desired consistency.
• For a professional finish, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help set the frosting and make the cake easier to slice.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• For longer storage, the cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing is also an option; the cake can be frozen without the frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for special occasions like birthdays or weddings. Consider placing the cake in a decorative cake box or on a cake stand, and adorn with additional strawberries or a ribbon around the box for a personalized touch. For a more rustic look, wrap the cake in parchment paper and twine, adding a handwritten note or card for a personal message.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter can give it a unique and interesting flavor dimension.
• Creative toppings: Instead of strawberries, consider using other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even caramelized bananas for a different twist.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix. You can also use different types of milk or cream in the frosting for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing. If it’s too dry, it could be overbaked. Adjust your mixing and baking times accordingly for the next attempt.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, look for substitutions that won’t alter the flavor or texture too much. For example, you can use honey instead of granulated sugar in some cases, but keep in mind it will add a stronger flavor.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cakes while they’re baking, and check them frequently towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean for fully cooked cakes.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen without the frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
• Is it gluten-free? Not in its original form, but you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on the cakes to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Making a cake with strawberries on top and white frosting around it is a fun and rewarding baking project that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and impressive results, it’s a great choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious and beautiful. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or your friends, this cake is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get baking, and share your creations with joy!