Strawberry Cake With Fresh Strawberries And Cream Cheese Frosting
Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in the world, and it's no wonder why. They are delicious, nutritious, and versatile. From smoothies to salads, strawberries can be used in a variety of recipes. One of the most popular ways to use strawberries is in desserts, and one of the best desserts is strawberry cake with fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting. In this article, we'll explore the history of strawberry cake, share a step-by-step recipe for making it at home, and offer tips for serving and storing it.
The History of Strawberry Cake
The history of strawberry cake can be traced back to the early 19th century. It is believed that the first strawberry cake recipe was created in France, where strawberries were considered a delicacy. The recipe spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. In the US, strawberry cake became popular in the 1950s and 1960s, when fresh strawberries were more widely available and people were looking for new and exciting ways to use them.
Today, strawberry cake is a popular dessert for all occasions, from birthdays to weddings. It is often served in the spring and summer months, when fresh strawberries are in season. Strawberry cake can be made in a variety of ways, with different types of cake, frosting, and toppings. However, the classic version is a layered cake with fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting.
How to Make Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberries and Cream Cheese Frosting
Making strawberry cake with fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting may seem daunting, but it's actually quite simple. Here's a step-by-step recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk, at room temperature
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely in the pans.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Place one cake layer on a cake plate or stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Spread a layer of frosting on top and around the sides of the cake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve.
Tips for Serving and Storing Strawberry Cake
Strawberry cake with fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting is best served chilled. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you are making the cake ahead of time, you can freeze it for up to three months. To do so, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
When serving the cake, you can garnish it with fresh strawberries or other berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also add a layer of strawberry jam or preserves between the cake layers for extra flavor. If you want to make the cake even more indulgent, you can drizzle it with chocolate sauce or add a layer of chocolate ganache.
Conclusion
Strawberry cake with fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. It's perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings, and it's easy to make at home. By following the step-by-step recipe and tips in this article, you can create a delicious and beautiful cake that will impress your guests. So go ahead and give it a try!
