Find out how to make a recipe for strawberries and cream cake. It has tender butter cake layers, velvety whipped cream, and juicy strawberries. This homemade cake recipe mixes classic flavors for a unique dessert. Each slice has a strawberry jello topping that shines like summer sun.
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This cake is more than a treat—it’s a celebration. It uses 2 cups of flour, fresh strawberries, and Jell-O, serving 16-24 people. The layers stay moist from baking in a 9×13-inch pan. Cool Whip and cream cheese frosting add a creamy touch. Plus, a 4-hour chill time makes sure everything is just right.
Introduction to the Classic Strawberries and Cream Cake
Strawberries and cream have been a favorite for many years. They mix the sweetness of strawberries with the smoothness of cream. This makes a dessert that’s both refreshing and rich.
Why Strawberries and Cream Make the Perfect Pairing
- Strawberries add bright acidity to cut through cream’s richness.
- Cream’s smooth texture contrasts with the fruit’s juicy bite.
- Together they create a harmony of flavors that feels light yet satisfying.
The History Behind This Beloved Dessert
Strawberry shortcake recipes started in 19th-century America. They first showed up in The Carolina Housewife (1845). By the 1840s, recipes like Eliza Leslie’s 1847 version were all over the U.S..
By the 1850s, it was a hit at summer festivals in Ohio and Kentucky. Today, we see new twists like Jell-O-infused batter and cream cheese frosting.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Our recipe is special because of its strawberry dessert layers. It has freeze-dried strawberry buttercream and fresh berries in the batter. The mix of a light crumb and a rich frosting is a perfect balance.
With over 150 five-star reviews since 2017, it’s a crowd-pleaser. It uses frozen strawberries for consistency and a creamy frosting. It’s perfect for 12 guests, offering a sweet treat without being too sweet.
Essential Ingredients for Your Strawberries and Cream Cake
Mastering the recipe for strawberries and cream cake starts with quality ingredients. Let’s break down what makes this creamy cake with strawberries shine:
“The best desserts begin with precise measurements and fresh ingredients.” – The Cake Bakers Guild
- Cake Base: Cake flour creates a light texture, while buttermilk adds tang and moisture. Softened butter and egg whites provide lift.
- Cream Layers: Cream cheese and whipped cream balance richness. Use heavy cream for stability, and vanilla extract for depth.
- Strawberries: Fresh berries add natural sweetness. Opt for plump, fragrant strawberries—16 oz ensures vibrant flavor.
For substitutions: Replace buttermilk with milk plus lemon juice, or swap vanilla extract for a vanilla bean. Cake flour can be made by mixing 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1 cup all-purpose flour.
Pro tip: Squeeze berries gently before adding to the cake to avoid excess moisture. Store whipped cream in a chilled bowl until ready to use.
Quality butter, like Land O’Lakes, ensures rich flavor. Avoid margarine for the best texture. Use high-quality vanilla extract—imitation flavors can dull the cake’s taste.
Every ingredient plays a role. From the fluffiness of egg whites to the acidity in buttermilk balancing sweetness, nothing is extra. Now you’re ready to gather everything needed to bake a masterpiece.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Strawberries and Cream Cake
Follow this homemade cake recipe for a stunning dessert. It’s perfect for beginners. This easy baking recipe makes it simple to follow.
Preparing the Cake Layers
Start by heating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease two 8-inch pans and wait. In a bowl:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 115g |
| Granulated sugar | 115g |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| All-purpose flour | 115g |
Whisk wet ingredients, then mix in dry ones. Bake for 20-25 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.
Making the Perfect Cream Filling
Beat 300ml heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff. Set aside 250g sliced strawberries for later.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth for frosting.
- Strain mashed strawberries to avoid a runny frosting (see note below).
Assembling Your Cake
Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife. Layer them like this:
- Put the first layer on a plate, spread ¼ cup strawberry jam.
- Top with whipped cream and strawberries.
- Add the second cake layer, repeat, and finish with frosting.
| Pro Tip | Chill assembled cake 1 hour before serving. |
|---|
Decorating Tips for a Professional Finish
- Use a piping bag with star tip for rosettes.
- Arrange sliced strawberries around the cake’s base.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a final touch.
Make sure all ingredients (like room-temp butter) are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Per Serving | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 182 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 11g |
Macronutrients: 62% fat, 3.6% protein, 34.4% carbs.
Variations of Strawberries and Cream Cake to Try
Explore new flavors with these strawberry dessert twists. From old favorites to new takes, each keeps the taste of strawberries and cream. They offer a range of options for everyone.
Traditional Victorian Sponge Style
Make a 19th-century classic with a light sponge and homemade custard. It has buttercream and fresh strawberries between the layers. It’s perfect for a fancy tea-time treat.
No-Bake Option
Stay cool with a no-bake recipe for strawberries and cream cake. It uses crushed graham crackers, whipped coconut cream, and strawberries. Chill it overnight for a creamy, layered dessert.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use almond flour and arrowroot powder instead of regular flour. Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour works well. Replace dairy cream with cashew cream for a nut-based option.
Vegan Strawberries and Cream Cake
Replace eggs with aquafaba and butter with coconut oil. Vegan buttercream from coconut milk goes great with berries. Just Mayo’s vegan mayo can replace eggs in batters.
Try these changes to make any version better:
- Use a mix of raspberries and blackberries for more flavor.
- Add matcha powder for a green tea twist.
- Put lemon zest in custards for a zesty touch.
- Drizzle with dark chocolate ganache or top with candied nuts.
Quick and Easy Strawberry Cake for Busy Bakers
Who says a delicious strawberry cake needs hours of work? This easy baking recipe mixes boxed cake mix with strawberry Jell-O. It gives a tender crumb and vibrant flavor. It’s perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight desserts, ready in under an hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix boxed cake mix, water, eggs, and melted butter as instructed on the box.
- Bake in a 9×13″ pan until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 20 minutes.
- Poke holes in the warm cake with a fork. Mix Jell-O with 1/2 cup boiling water until dissolved, then stir in 1 cup cold water. Pour over the cake.
- Chill until set. Frost with whipped cream cheese frosting and top with sliced strawberries before serving.
| Key Details | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Calories/Serving | 250-300 |
| Storage | 3 days in an airtight container |
Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t in season—just thaw and drain them first. To save time, buy pre-made whipped topping or make frosting ahead. This delicious strawberry cake layers flavor without layers of effort. Slice and serve with extra berries for a crowd-pleasing treat that tastes homemade but feels effortless.
Seasonal Tips for Selecting the Perfect Strawberries
Choosing the right strawberries is key for a great strawberry dessert or creamy cake with strawberries. Here are tips on picking, storing, and using frozen berries when fresh ones aren’t available.
When to Buy Strawberries Throughout the Year
In most U.S. areas, strawberries are at their best from April to June. This is when they taste sweetest and are most affordable. If it’s not peak season, look for local or greenhouse-grown berries. Check the label to find the freshest ones.
How to Store Strawberries for Maximum Freshness
Keep unwashed berries in a single layer on paper towels in a sealed container. Don’t refrigerate until right before use. Rinse and pat dry before adding to your cake to keep it creamy. Toss with a bit of sugar 30 minutes before baking for extra flavor.
Using Frozen Strawberries as an Alternative
Frozen strawberries are a good choice when fresh ones are out of season. But, they need special care. Thaw them on paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drain well before adding to your recipe. For strawberry dessert recipes, cut down on liquid by 2 tablespoons. Never use frozen berries straight from the freezer; it makes the cake soggy.
- Spread frozen berries on a plate to thaw at room temperature
- Press excess liquid through a sieve if needed
- Use immediately after thawing to avoid over-softening
Making Your Strawberries and Cream Cake a Centerpiece for Special Occasions
Turn your strawberry cake into the main attraction at any party. It’s perfect for birthdays, weddings, or holidays. You can change it to fit any theme, making it both delicious and stunning.
Birthday Celebration Ideas
For kids’ parties, add fun with sprinkles or glitter. For adults, go for a simple look with flowers or gold leaf. Use pink gel food coloring and arrange fresh berries in a circle. For big birthdays, add custom toppers or chocolate numbers.
Wedding and Anniversary Adaptations
Make it bigger by adding tiers for big events. Use white chocolate or edible pearls for a fancy look. Add champagne-soaked strawberries for weddings or gold-dusted berries for anniversaries. A stand mixer and chilled layers make it smooth and perfect for photos.
Holiday-Themed Decorations
For the Fourth of July, layer strawberries and blueberries. On Valentine’s Day, make heart shapes with berries. For New Year’s, dust with gold leaf for luxury. Use mascarpone filling and add seasonal touches like rosemary or candied nuts.
Pro Tip: Layer the cake with custard and fruit for depth. Store it overnight to firm the filling. Serve on a mirrored platter or gold charger for extra elegance. These tips make your dessert the highlight of any event, without losing flavor or time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Creamy Strawberry Cake
Mastering the recipe for strawberries and cream cake means avoiding these common pitfalls. Even the easy baking recipe can go wrong without attention to details like mixing techniques and timing.
- Overmixing cake batter creates a tough texture—stop mixing once ingredients combine.
- Room-temperature ingredients ensure even mixing; cold butter or eggs cause lumpy batters.
- Skipping cooling time leads to sogginess; let layers cool completely before assembling.
| Mistake | Why It Happens | Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Overwhipping cream | Destroys structure, causing weeping | Beat until soft peaks form |
| Incorrect oven temp | Burns edges or dry layers | Bake at 325°F (160°C) for even cooking |
| Ignoring layer order | Frosting leaks out | Build layers starting with the dam technique |
Proper storage matters: refrigerate assembled cake in an airtight container but let it sit at room temperature 2 hours before serving. Avoid using frozen berries—they release excess moisture. Use freeze-dried strawberries for natural color instead of artificial dyes. For the cream filling, mix cornstarch evenly to prevent clumps. Always test doneness with a toothpick; overbaking dries out layers. By following these steps, you’ll avoid soggy layers or unstable frosting in your easy baking recipe.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Dessert Game with This Delicious Strawberry Creation
Whether you’re making a dessert for a special event or a casual get-together, this recipe is perfect. It combines fresh strawberries with creamy layers. You can even make it gluten-free or reduce the sugar.
Remember to chill the cake and let it come to room temperature before serving. This ensures it tastes and feels just right.
Try different glazes like mango-lime or berry mixes to fit any theme. Serve it with mocktails for a family brunch or fancy cocktails at a wedding. The fun part is making it your own by adding raspberries or adjusting the glaze.
Don’t just save this cake for birthdays. It’s great for summer parties or holidays too. Top it with mango and lime for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for any number of guests, from two to twenty.
Now that you know the basics, let your imagination run wild. Post pictures of your creations online or try new flavors. This cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a way to celebrate. Every slice is a chance to enjoy the mix of tradition and creativity. Your next event deserves a show-stopping dessert, and this strawberry masterpiece is ready to impress.