Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a truly unforgettable dessert, this Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and enriched with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb, this cake balances every bite with luscious, creamy buttercream that sings with fruity brightness. Every element, from the vibrant pink hues to the delicate texture, comes together in perfect harmony to create a cake that’s ideal for celebrations or simply indulging a berry craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this cake’s irresistible flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s creating the cake’s delicate crumb, adding bursts of strawberry goodness, or ensuring the buttercream is perfectly smooth and fresh.

• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for the cake layers.
• Baking powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully and stay moist.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the profile.
• Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup + 1 cup): Adds richness and moisture to both cake and frosting.
• Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Keeps the cake incredibly tender and moist.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the strawberry flavors.
• Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together and give structure.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, aromatic complexity to both the cake and buttercream.
• Whole milk (1/2 cup): Moistens the batter while ensuring the crumb stays soft.
• Pureed strawberries (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): Infuses both the cake and buttercream with fresh, fruity flavor and color.
• Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds subtle tang and richness, intensifying moistness.
• Finely chopped fresh strawberries (1/2 cup): Offers delightful pockets of juicy strawberry surprise within the cake.
• Pink food coloring (optional, a few drops): Enhances the strawberry hue for a charming, vibrant appearance.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Forms the sweet, silky base of the buttercream.
• Salt (a pinch): Just enough to balance the sweetness in the frosting.
• Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional): Adds a finishing touch of freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and line their bottoms with parchment paper for easy release. This prep step ensures the cakes bake evenly and come out without a hitch.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This even distribution of leavening and salt is crucial to ensure a uniformly tender and flavorful cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until you achieve a light, fluffy mixture—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step aerates the batter, giving your cake that sought-after moist and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This careful mixing ensures every ingredient is perfectly blended without overworking the batter.

Step 5: Combine Milk, Pureed Strawberries, and Sour Cream

In a separate bowl, whisk the whole milk, pureed strawberries, and sour cream together. This luscious blend adds moisture, tang, and vibrant strawberry flavor to the cake.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and strawberry mixture—beginning and ending with the dry. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light. Then gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries and, if you like, a few drops of pink food coloring for that stunning rosy tint.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Fresh Strawberry Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar a little at a time, beating well after each addition. Once your frosting is silky, mix in the pureed strawberries, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for perfect balance. The result is a fresh, irresistibly fruity buttercream that pairs beautifully with the tender cake layers.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

With the cakes fully cooled, spread a generous layer of strawberry buttercream between each layer. Don’t be shy about frosting the top and sides as well—this is what makes it so indulgent and picture-perfect. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with fresh strawberries if you have them on hand.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

A few plump, fresh strawberries placed artfully on top make the cake look extra inviting while adding a fresh burst of flavor with every bite. You can also sprinkle edible flower petals or gently dust the edges with powdered sugar for an elegant flair.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to enhance its creamy, fruity character. Fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote can also complement the cake without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake thinly and serving it with a glass of sparkling rosé for a sophisticated touch. Or present mini versions as finger sandwiches at a tea party. Layering the cake slices with extra fresh strawberries on a dessert platter can also make for a stunning visual display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly wrapped, it stays fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying later or sharing with loved ones.

Freezing

You can freeze cake layers before frosting by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Allow the layers to thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling and frosting, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful cake.

Reheating

Slices are best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warmer slice, warm it gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds—just enough to soften the buttercream slightly without melting it completely.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra moisture that could affect the cake’s texture.

How do I make the buttercream less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add a bit more pureed strawberry or a tiny pinch of salt to balance the sweetness without compromising the creamy texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Use the combination of butter and oil as the recipe directs, and avoid overbaking by checking doneness promptly with a toothpick—this keeps each layer deliciously moist.

Is the pink food coloring necessary?

Not at all! The pureed strawberries provide beautiful natural color, but a few drops of pink food coloring intensify the visual appeal if you want a brighter pink cake.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about baking and sharing this Moist Strawberry Cake with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe. It combines simple, fresh ingredients into an unforgettable treat that feels homemade and special all at once. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a delightful dessert, this cake will bring smiles to everyone’s face and warm your heart with every tender, strawberry-filled bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s a slice of happiness you won’t regret.

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