If you are dreaming of a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of a sunny spring day, this Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe is your answer. Bursting with juicy, vibrant strawberries nestled between layers of light, fluffy cake and luscious whipped cream frosting, this cake is a celebration of freshness and sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a showstopper for your next gathering or a homemade treat to brighten any afternoon, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an irresistible strawberry delight that’s both elegant and approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. From the soft cream cheese to the fresh strawberries, these staples come together to make a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and visually stunning.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness for a tender cake crumb.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter ensuring the perfect balance.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural flavors with a gentle warmth.
- â…” cup flour: The base of the cake, contributing to its soft texture.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Keeps the cake light and slightly airy.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake the right lift and fluffiness.
- 1 pinch salt: Brings out the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 6 tablespoons strawberry jam: Infuses the cake with a concentrated strawberry flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (well chilled): Creates a luscious, fluffy frosting when whipped.
- 12 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds richness and a slight tang to the frosting, grounding the sweetness.
- 6 tablespoons icing sugar (or more to taste): Sweetens and smooths the frosting perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract): Adds a subtle vanilla touch to the whipped frosting.
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced): The star ingredient providing fresh, juicy bursts in every slice.
- 1 (6 oz.) package strawberry jello: Enhances the strawberry flavor and helps set the topping.
- 2 cups boiling water: Used to dissolve the strawberry jello, creating a glossy, sweet glaze for the cake’s finish.
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 360°F (180°C). Carefully line a 9×13 inch (22×33 cm) cake pan with baking parchment, ensuring the paper covers the bottom and sides for an easy release later. This simple preparation step ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out in one perfect piece.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously beat the 3 large eggs and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture doubles in volume and takes on a pale, fluffy texture. Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract for that inviting aroma you’ll love. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture and gently fold in 6 tablespoons of strawberry jam to keep the batter moist and strawberry-infused without overpowering it.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when touched lightly. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before moving on to the next steps.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Frosting and Strawberry Topping
While the cake cools, beat the soft cream cheese with icing sugar and vanilla sugar until smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to create a fluffy but stable frosting. Dissolve the strawberry jello in 2 cups of boiling water and let it cool slightly but not set. Once the cake is cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top, arrange the sliced fresh strawberries in an even layer, and gently pour the warm jello mixture over the fruit, creating a shiny, enticing glaze.
How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, dust the edges with a little powdered sugar or add a few mint leaves atop the strawberries. You can also sprinkle some finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and creamy topping.
Side Dishes
This Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a light cup of tea or a crisp glass of sparkling wine. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side can elevate the dessert experience, adding creamy coolness that complements the fresh fruity notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices with extra fresh strawberries and a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce for an over-the-top strawberry celebration. You can also offer individual mini parfait glasses layered with cake crumbs, cream cheese frosting, and fresh strawberry slices for a fun, deconstructed presentation that still has all the classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe leftovers should be kept refrigerated, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This will keep the cake moist and the strawberries fresh for up to 3 days, preserving that wonderful flavor and texture.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cake without the jello glaze. Wrap the cake layers separately in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and prepare the frosting and glaze fresh for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Because this cake is meant to be enjoyed cold with its creamy frosting and fresh fruit, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve straight from the fridge to maintain the delightful contrast of cool cream and fresh berries.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones?
While frozen strawberries can be used, fresh strawberries are highly recommended for this Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe because they offer the best texture and sweetness. Frozen berries tend to release extra moisture that might affect the cake’s texture and frosting consistency.
What if I do not have cream cheese?
Cream cheese contributes to the tangy richness of the frosting. If you can’t get cream cheese, mascarpone is a decent substitute, but the flavor will be milder. Avoid using sour cream or yogurt as they alter the texture significantly.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Incorporating the strawberry jam directly into the batter adds moisture and flavor. Also, be careful not to overbake the cake — removing it just as it springs back ensures it stays soft and tender.
Is it okay to use regular sugar instead of vanilla sugar?
Yes! If you don’t have vanilla sugar, simply add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract to your cream cheese frosting. This swap maintains the lovely vanilla aroma without compromising flavor.
Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?
Makeshift vegan versions are possible but tricky. You would need to substitute eggs, cream, and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like flax eggs, coconut cream, and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ significantly from the classic Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe—how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients transform into a cake that tastes both light and indulgently creamy, bursting with strawberry goodness. It’s a joy to bake and an even greater joy to share. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to strawberry dessert for any occasion.
Print
Fresh Strawberry Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 15 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Fresh Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a light sponge cake layered with a creamy strawberry-flavored filling and topped generously with fresh strawberries. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, cream cheese, and strawberry jam creates a luscious and refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…” cup flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
Filling and Frosting
- 6 tablespoons strawberry jam
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (well chilled)
- 12 oz cream cheese (softened, approx. 1.5 blocks)
- 6 tablespoons icing sugar (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (OR 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
Topping and Jelly
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 (6 oz.) package strawberry jello
- 2 cups boiling water
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch (22×33 cm) cake pan by lining it with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the 3 large eggs with ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, sift together ⅔ cup flour, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, maintaining as much air as possible to keep the batter airy.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Strawberry Jelly: Dissolve the 1 package (6 oz) strawberry jello in 2 cups boiling water, stirring well. Let it cool to room temperature so it is not hot but still liquid.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, beat together 12 oz softened cream cheese, 6 tablespoons icing sugar, and 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract) until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the 1 cup chilled heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture for a light and fluffy filling.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread 6 tablespoons of strawberry jam evenly over the surface. Next, spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture over the jam layer.
- Add Strawberries and Jelly: Arrange the 1 pound of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries evenly on top of the cream layer. Carefully pour the cooled (but still liquid) strawberry jelly over the strawberries to set and create a glossy finish. Refrigerate the cake for several hours or until the jelly is fully set.
- Serve: Slice into 15 servings and enjoy the fresh, creamy, and fruity flavors of this Strawberry Cake.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding the jam and cream layers to prevent melting.
- Use chilled heavy cream for best whipping results.
- Let the strawberry jelly cool but remain liquid before pouring over the strawberries to avoid melting the cream layer.
- The cake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- For an extra touch, garnish with whole strawberries or mint leaves before serving.
