strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting at home
Baking a homemade strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is more than just making a dessert. It’s about creating a moment of pure joy. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe, trying it nine times. Each slice tells a story of love, patience, and delicious experimentation.
This strawberry cake recipe turns simple ingredients into a spectacular homemade dessert. It will make your kitchen smell like a bakery. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is sure to please everyone.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Perfect Strawberry Cake
Making a great strawberry cake is more than just mixing stuff together. It’s about finding the right mix of texture, taste, and technique. This mix turns a simple dessert into a special treat you’ll remember.
Benefits of Using Freeze-Dried Strawberries
Freeze-dried strawberries change the game for your strawberry dessert. They pack a strong strawberry flavor without adding too much water. They’re perfect for both the cake and frosting, giving a deep strawberry taste.
- Intense strawberry flavor without added liquid
- Preserves natural strawberry color
- Lightweight and easy to incorporate
- Extends shelf life of the cake texture
The Role of Room Temperature Ingredients
Starting with the right ingredients is key to a perfect cake. Ingredients at room temperature mix better, making the cake more even. Eggs, butter, and milk should sit out for 30-45 minutes before mixing.
“Temperature matters more than you might think in baking!” – Professional Pastry Chef
Key Components for Texture and Flavor
The success of your strawberry dessert comes from choosing top-notch ingredients and knowing how they work together. Butter and vegetable oil make the cake soft, while egg whites make it light.
| Ingredient | Texture Impact | Flavor Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | Rich, tender crumb | Buttery undertones |
| Vegetable Oil | Moisture retention | Neutral base |
| Egg Whites | Lightness and lift | Subtle protein structure |
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Making the perfect strawberry cake needs the right ingredients and tools. Start by getting the best parts for your kitchen. This will make baking a joy.
Key Ingredients for Strawberry Cake
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups)
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
- Baking powder (2 1/2 teaspoons)
- Unsalted butter (1 cup)
- Large eggs (3)
- Freeze-dried strawberries (1 cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Essential Baking Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Stand mixer | Mixing batter and frosting |
| 8-inch cake pans | Baking cake layers |
| Food processor | Grinding freeze-dried strawberries |
| Parchment paper | Preventing cake from sticking |
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for your strawberry cake. Go for fresh, high-quality freeze-dried strawberries. You can find them at Target and Whole Foods. They will make your cake taste amazing.
“The secret to an exceptional strawberry cake lies in the quality of your ingredients and precision of your baking equipment.”
Getting ready is important. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps with mixing and texture. Also, make sure your baking tools are clean and ready to help you make a delicious cake.
Preparing Your Strawberry Cake Base
Making the perfect strawberry cake batter needs precision and knowing how to mix. Your journey to a tasty dessert starts with preparing ingredients and mixing carefully.
Professional bakers say the secret to a great strawberry cake is in the batter. Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps them blend better.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Begin by mixing your dry ingredients with care. Sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt to avoid lumps. This step makes your batter smooth and even.
- Sift 2 ¼ cups cake flour
- Add 4 tsp baking powder
- Incorporate 1 tsp salt
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Your mixing technique affects the cake’s texture. Start by creaming unsalted butter with white sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add eggs one at a time for a smooth mix.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Mixing Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 12 Tbsp | Cream until light |
| White Sugar | 1 ¾ cup | Mix with butter thoroughly |
| Large Eggs | 4 | Add one at a time |
Proper Batter Consistency Tips
Getting the right batter consistency is key. Mix at medium speed, switching between dry ingredients and milk. Stop mixing as soon as ingredients are just combined to avoid tough batter.
“Perfect cake batter is about balance – mix enough to combine, but not so much that you develop tough gluten.” – Professional Baker’s Wisdom
Your goal is a batter that’s smooth and silky, dropping easily from a spoon. With these tips, you’re ready to make a strawberry cake that will wow everyone.
The Secret to Making Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Creating the perfect strawberry cake is all about mastering a few key baking secrets. These secrets turn a simple dessert into a truly special treat. It’s all about choosing the right ingredients and following precise steps.
Start by understanding the power of freeze-dried strawberries. These tiny flavor bombs make your cake truly stand out. They add a deep strawberry taste without making the cake too wet.
“The difference between a great cake and an exceptional cake is in the details” – Professional Pastry Chef
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter integration
- Mix wet ingredients for no more than 7 minutes to prevent dense texture
- Grind freeze-dried strawberries into fine powder for maximum flavor distribution
- Select full-fat cream cheese for richer frosting
When making your cream cheese frosting, remember that texture is key. Softening the cream cheese at room temperature makes it silky smooth. Baking pros say to add about ¼ cup of powdered freeze-dried strawberries to really bring out the fruit flavor in your frosting.
Keeping an eye on temperature is important in baking. Eggs can be warmed up quickly by soaking them in warm water. Butter can be softened by cutting it into small pieces and letting it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Tip: Always use unsalted butter to maintain precise control over your cake’s salt levels!
Baking Techniques and Temperature Guidelines
Mastering cake baking techniques is key to making the perfect strawberry cake. The right baking temperature and preparation are crucial. They can make or break your dessert. Knowing these elements will help you make a moist, flavorful cake every time.
Proper Pan Preparation
Preparing your baking pan is a critical step. Follow these essential steps:
- Choose the right pan size (typically 8 or 9-inch round pans)
- Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray
- Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal
- Dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking
Timing and Testing for Doneness
Baking temperature is vital for the perfect strawberry cake. The ideal temperature is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even baking and a beautiful golden crust.
| Cake Type | Baking Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 9-inch Round Cake | 350°F | 35-40 minutes |
| Cupcakes | 375°F | 20-24 minutes |
“The secret to a perfect cake is patience and precision in baking temperature.” – Professional Pastry Chef
To test for doneness, use these reliable methods:
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake
- If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready
- Gently press the cake’s center – it should spring back lightly
- Use a cake thermometer to check the internal temperature (around 210°F)
Remember to let your cake cool completely in the pan before removing. This allows the cake to set and prevents breaking. With these baking techniques, you’ll create a strawberry cake that’s sure to impress!
Creating the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
Making the perfect cream cheese frosting is an art. It turns your strawberry cake into something truly special. The secret is in the right mix of ingredients and techniques.
First, gather your ingredients carefully. You’ll need:
- 226 grams cold cream cheese
- 115 grams unsalted butter
- 480 grams powdered sugar
- Freeze-dried strawberry powder
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Temperature is key in your frosting recipe. Make sure your cream cheese is cold. But your butter should be soft. This mix makes your frosting smooth and stable.
“The secret to a perfect frosting is in the details and technique.” – Professional Baker’s Tip
Now, mix your frosting with care:
- Cream the softened butter until smooth
- Add cold cream cheese, beating until fully combined
- Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed
- Whip on medium-high for 1-2 minutes until fluffy
- Add freeze-dried strawberry powder for intense flavor
Pro tip: If your frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of cream or milk. This recipe makes enough for a two-layer 8-inch cake or about 24 cupcakes.
The outcome? A rich, strawberry-infused cream cheese frosting. It will make your cake look like it came from a bakery.
Assembly and Decoration Tips
Turning your strawberry cake into a masterpiece takes careful assembly and decoration. The right steps can make it look like it came from a bakery. It’s all about the techniques.
Layer Stacking Technique
Start with precision and patience for a perfect cake. Make sure your cake layers are cool. If you want, brush them with strawberry simple syrup for extra moisture and taste.
- Place the first layer on a sturdy serving plate
- Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting
- Carefully position the next layer
- Repeat frosting between layers
Professional Finishing Touches
For a smooth, elegant look, you need the right tools and techniques. An offset spatula is your best friend for perfect sides.
“The difference between a good cake and a great cake is in the details of decoration.” – Professional Baker
| Decoration Element | Recommended Technique |
|---|---|
| Frosting Coverage | Use smooth, even strokes with offset spatula |
| Garnish | Fresh strawberry slices or whole berries |
| Optional Flair | Sprinkle of ground freeze-dried strawberries |
Pro tip: For a professional touch, add delicate strawberry slices around the base or on top. It looks great and boosts the strawberry flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Making a tasty strawberry cake takes time. Smart storage tips can help you enjoy it for days. Keeping your dessert fresh is key.
Storing your cake right is crucial. It keeps the frosting and cake texture perfect. Here’s how to keep your strawberry cake fresh:
- Refrigerate the cake in an airtight container
- Store for up to 5 days maximum
- Cover partially eaten cake with plastic wrap
Pro tip: Always let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the most delightful taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Cake Preparation
Preparing your cake ahead of time can save you stress. Here are tips for making your strawberry cake in advance:
- Bake cake layers and cool completely
- Wrap individual layers in plastic wrap
- Freeze layers for up to one week
- Thaw at room temperature before frosting
“The secret to a perfect make-ahead dessert is careful preparation and smart storage.” – Pastry Chef Emma Richardson
Wait to make your cream cheese frosting until just before you assemble the cake. This keeps it fresh and flavorful. It makes your strawberry cake taste like a pro made it.
Conclusion
Making a homemade strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is more than baking. It’s a chance to create a dessert that brings happiness to your table. You’ve learned how to turn simple ingredients into something amazing.
The cream cheese frosting recipe makes your cake stand out. You’ve picked up skills that go beyond this recipe. Your cake is a mix of tradition and creativity in the kitchen.
With the right preparation and care, you can make a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery. This strawberry cake is perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat. It will impress and delight everyone who tries it.
Baking is all about practice and patience. Every time you make this cake, you’ll get better. Your strawberry cake will get even more special with each try.
