Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light) Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a truly delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you absolutely must try this Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light). It’s a beautiful balance of airy cake layers paired with luxuriously creamy strawberry filling, bringing a burst of fresh fruit sweetness in every bite. This cake isn’t just tasty; it’s elegantly simple, with textures that melt in your mouth and flavors that celebrate the natural goodness of strawberries in a way that feels both nostalgic and special. Whether it’s a celebration or a quiet afternoon treat, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the first step toward creating this irresistible strawberry cake. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring the final dessert is fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture.

• 4 eggs: The backbone of the cake, eggs provide structure and moisture to keep it soft.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the cake and the cream layers.
• 1 cup milk: Keeps the cake tender and helps to dissolve the sugar evenly.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Creates a soft crumb and moist texture without weighing down the cake.
• 2 cups flour: The foundation for the cake, giving it the perfect rise and fluffy crumb.
• 1 packet baking powder: Essential for helping the cake rise beautifully in the oven.
• 1 packet vanilla: Infuses the cake with a sweet, comforting aroma and subtle flavor.
• 2 cups milk (for cream): Forms the base for the rich strawberry cream, making it smooth and luscious.
• 2 tablespoons flour and 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used together to thicken the cream perfectly without lumps.
• ½ cup sugar (for cream): Sweetens the strawberry cream without overpowering the fresh fruit flavors.
• 1 packet vanilla (for cream): Adds depth and enhances the overall creaminess.
• 1 packet liquid cream (200 ml): Whipped into the cooled pudding mixture to create a velvety texture.
• 1 cup strawberry puree: Bursts with natural strawberry flavor, brightening the cream’s taste and color.
• Sliced fresh strawberries: Perfect for layering inside and decorating on top for the freshest, juiciest touch.
• Optional strawberry sauce or jam: Adds even more fruity sweetness and shine to your cake’s finishing touch.

How to Make Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light)

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by beating the eggs and sugar together until they become light, creamy, and fluffy—this airiness is what makes the cake so soft and tender. Then gently mix in the milk and vegetable oil, which keep the batter moist without being heavy. Finally, sift in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla to create a smooth, well-aerated batter ready for baking.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan and bake at 170°C for about 35 to 40 minutes. The fragrance filling your kitchen will be irresistible! Once baked, remove the cake and allow it to cool completely—this is key so the layers don’t crumble when you slice them.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Cream

In a saucepan, combine milk, flour, cornstarch, and sugar, then cook gently while stirring until thickened into a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla before letting it cool. When cool, whisk in the liquid cream and strawberry puree until the mixture is smooth and velvety. This luscious strawberry cream will transform your cake into a dreamy masterpiece.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Slice the cooled cake into two or three layers depending on your preference. If you want an extra moist cake, lightly soak each layer with a splash of milk mixed with a teaspoon of sugar. Spread the strawberry cream evenly over each layer and add a generous handful of sliced strawberries. Finally, decorate the top with more cream, fresh strawberry slices, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce or jam if you like. Let the assembled cake chill in the fridge for at least two hours to meld all the flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light)

Garnishes

A few fresh strawberry slices on top never go wrong and lend an inviting look with their natural color and shine. You can also add a sprig of mint for a dash of vibrant green that complements the pink hues beautifully. For a touch of elegance, a dusting of powdered sugar adds that extra wow factor before serving.

Side Dishes

This strawberry cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad with citrus notes also brighten up the dessert experience without competing with the cake’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a small pool of warm chocolate sauce or strawberry coulis for drama and indulgence. For a party, cut the cake into petite squares and serve on pretty dessert plates garnished with edible flowers or finely chopped nuts for texture contrast. Sharing this cake in a beautiful glass trifle dish layered with extra cream and berries also makes a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your slice of this strawberry cake, be sure to cover the leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to maintain the cream’s freshness and prevent the cake from drying out. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to save your cake for longer, you can freeze it, but remember the delicate cream may alter slightly in texture after thawing. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to bring back as much of the softness and flavor as possible.

Reheating

Because this is a soft and cream-filled cake, reheating is best avoided as it can melt the cream and affect texture. If you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, allow the slice to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving, which enhances the flavors wonderfully without compromising the cake’s lightness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used for the puree and decoration, but it’s best to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that might affect the cream’s texture. Fresh strawberries are ideal for the best color and flavor.

Is this cake suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! This Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light) is straightforward and forgiving, making it a fantastic choice even if you’re just starting out with baking. The steps are simple and the results are impressive.

Can I substitute vegetable oil with butter?

You can substitute melted butter for the vegetable oil, but be aware that it might change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser. Vegetable oil tends to keep the cake lighter and softer.

How long does the cake need to chill before serving?

At least two hours in the refrigerator is recommended. This resting time helps the cream set perfectly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so patience really pays off here.

Can I make the strawberry cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a gentle whisk before assembling the cake to ensure the consistency is smooth and fluffy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly rewarding about making a cake that’s both soft and light yet bursting with fresh strawberry goodness. This Strawberry Cake Recipe (Soft & Light) is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your baking rotation for years to come. It’s not just a pretty cake; it’s a joyful experience from the first whisk to the last bite. So invite a few friends over or simply treat yourself to a slice of summer anytime you crave something sweet, fresh, and utterly delightful.

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