Description
Create a stunning Strawberry Valentine’s Cake with our step-by-step guide. Easy to bake, this recipe promises the best flavor for a special occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh strawberry puree (from about 1 cup fresh strawberries)
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz (452g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp freeze-dried strawberry powder (optional, for color and flavor)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment.
- 2. Mix Dry & Puree Strawberries: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Puree 1 cup fresh strawberries until smooth (yields ~½ cup puree).
- 3. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 mins).
- 4. Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
- 5. Alternate Wet & Dry: Gradually add dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with buttermilk in two additions, starting and ending with dry. Mix until just combined.
- 6. Bake: Divide batter evenly. Bake 28-32 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 mins, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
- 7. Make Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and freeze-dried strawberry powder. Beat until light and fluffy.
- 8. Assemble: Level cooled cake layers. Place one layer on serving plate, spread with frosting. Top with second layer, frost. Apply a thin crumb coat, chill 15-20 mins, then finish with remaining frosting.
- 9. Decorate: Garnish with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or edible glitter.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins