If you love a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Combining the natural sweetness and vibrant color of fresh strawberries with light, fluffy cake layers and a dreamy whipped cream frosting, this cake is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a day that calls for something sweet and comforting, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an irresistible celebration of strawberry goodness and creamy perfection.

Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting to know your ingredients is half the fun, especially with a recipe this straightforward. Each component plays a vital role in making the cake moist, flavorful, and visually stunning. From the fresh strawberry puree that infuses the cake with authentic fruity aroma to the smooth whipped cream frosting that adds lightness, every ingredient is essential and easy to find.

Flour 3 cups (375g): The backbone of your cake, giving structure and tenderness.
Sugar 1½ cups (300g): Sweetness that balances the tartness of strawberries perfectly.
Unsalted butter 1 cup (226g), softened: Adds rich flavor and moisture to the cake.
Eggs 4 large: Bind the ingredients together while contributing to a light texture.
Milk 1 cup (240ml): Keeps the batter smooth and moist without heaviness.
Fresh strawberry puree 1 cup: Bursting with natural strawberry flavor and color.
Baking powder 2 tsp: Ensures your cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
Baking soda ½ tsp: Helps balance acidity and strengthens texture.
Salt a pinch: Enhances the overall flavors without being noticeable.
Vegetable oil ¼ cup (60ml): Keeps the cake tender and moist long after baking.
Vanilla flavor 1 tbsp: Adds warmth and depth to the batter’s sweetness.
Pink or red food colour (optional): Perfect for intensifying that beautiful strawberry hue.
Fresh strawberries (diced) 1½ cups: The juicy surprise in the strawberry filling.
Sugar ¼ cup (50g): Sweetens the strawberry filling gently.
Cornstarch 1 tbsp: Thickens the strawberry filling into a luscious jam-like consistency.
Lemon juice 1 tbsp: Brightens and balances the sweetness in the filling.
Water 2 tbsp: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and spread the flavors evenly.
Whipping cream 2 cups (480ml), chilled: Whips up into the fluffy frosting that crowns the cake.
Powdered sugar ½ cup (60g): Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
Vanilla 1 tsp: Enhances the whipped cream’s flavor beautifully.
Strawberry powder or puree 2 tbsp (optional): Adds color and intensifies strawberry flavor in the frosting.

How to Make Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Creaming the Base

Begin by creaming the softened butter with sugar until the mixture transforms into a fluffy, pale cloud of sweetness. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, resulting in a light cake texture. Gradually mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring the batter stays smooth. Stir in the vegetable oil, vanilla, and fresh strawberry puree to weave in moisture and that unmistakable strawberry essence.

Step 2: Blending Dry with Wet

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Alternately fold the dry ingredients and milk into the strawberry-infused batter. This back-and-forth mixing is key to maintaining fluffiness while achieving a perfectly smooth, pink-hued cake batter. If you want your cake with an extra pop of color, add a small amount of pink or red food coloring here.

Step 3: Baking the Layers

Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining them. Divide the batter evenly among the pans, smoothing the tops for even baking. Place them in a preheated oven at 170°C, and bake until the cakes spring back softly when touched and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on wire racks before moving on to assembly.

Step 4: Making the Strawberry Filling

Combine diced fresh strawberries with sugar, lemon juice, water, and cornstarch in a pan over low heat. Stir gently as the mixture thickens into a luscious, jammy filling—sweet, tangy, and packed with bursting strawberry bites. Allow this filling to cool thoroughly before spread time.

Step 5: Whipping up the Cream Frosting

Chilled whipping cream gets transformed by powdered sugar and vanilla into thick, stable peaks of dreamy frosting. To amp up that strawberry vibe, fold in a bit of strawberry powder or puree if you like. This frosting will be the soft blanket that holds it all together beautifully.

Step 6: Assembling Your Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe

Layer one cake on your board, spread a thin layer of whipped cream, followed by a generous spoonful of strawberry filling, then smooth it out evenly. Repeat with the second layer. Finally, place the third layer on top and cover the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting. For an elegant finish, pipe delicate swirls along the edges and top with fresh strawberries. Now your cake is ready to impress!

How to Serve Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the natural choice for garnishing, adding vibrant color and that fresh fruity snap with every bite. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few mint leaves can also elevate the look and refresh the palate as you enjoy the cake.

Side Dishes

This strawberry & cream cake pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of mixed berries to complement and enhance the fresh strawberry flavor. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can bring a rich twist to the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a swirl of fresh cream on the side or in clear glass dessert cups to showcase the layers. You can also make mini versions of this cake for a charming party platter or stack the layers as mini cupcakes for a fun and portable treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This will preserve the fresh flavors and keep the whipped cream frosting stable for up to 3 days, ensuring every slice remains moist and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to save this cake for longer, freeze it without the whipped cream frosting for best results. Wrap each cake layer individually in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and whip up fresh cream to frost before serving.

Reheating

Because this cake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to fully appreciate its flavor and soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to keep your batter from becoming too watery.

Is it possible to make this cake egg-free?

Eggs play an important role in binding and texture here, but you could try substituting with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind this may slightly change the cake’s crumb and rise.

Can I make the strawberry filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Be sure to bring it to room temperature before assembling to keep it spreadable and fresh.

What’s the best way to slice this cake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between slices. This helps create smooth, clean cuts without squashing the layers or frosting.

Can I turn this into cupcakes?

Yes! Bake the batter in cupcake liners for about 18-22 minutes at the same temperature. Top with whipped cream frosting and a small dollop of strawberry filling for a delightful handheld treat.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry & Cream Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together to create something spectacular. Whether you bake it for friends, family, or just yourself, it’s an irresistible way to bring smiles to any table. Dive in, have fun, and watch how this cake quickly becomes a treasured favorite in your dessert repertoire!