Strawberry Cream Cake: A Delightful Summer Dessert

Summer is the perfect time for light, refreshing desserts, and what could be more summery than a Strawberry Cream Cake? This cake is a delightful combination of moist cake layers, sweet whipped cream, and juicy fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a simple treat on a warm day. This recipe provides detailed instructions and tips to ensure your Strawberry Cream Cake turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cake

* **Light and Refreshing:** The whipped cream and fresh strawberries make this cake incredibly light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather.
* **Easy to Make:** While it looks impressive, this cake is surprisingly easy to put together. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.
* **Beautiful Presentation:** The layers of cake, cream, and strawberries create a visually stunning dessert that will impress your guests.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. Try different cake flavors, add other fruits, or experiment with different toppings.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. This will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

**For the Cake:**

* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/4 cups buttermilk

**For the Whipped Cream:**

* 3 cups heavy cream
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For the Strawberry Filling and Topping:**

* 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for macerating strawberries)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Two 9-inch round cake pans
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls (large and medium)
* Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
* Rubber spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Serrated knife
* Cake stand or serving platter

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your perfect Strawberry Cream Cake.

### Part 1: Baking the Cake

1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for easy removal.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a tender cake.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. **Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
6. **Divide Batter and Bake:** Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
7. **Cool the Cakes:** Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking to the pans.

### Part 2: Preparing the Whipped Cream and Strawberries

1. **Make the Whipped Cream:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn the cream grainy.
2. **Prepare the Strawberries:** Hull and slice the strawberries. If desired, toss them with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate. This will draw out their natural juices and enhance their flavor.

### Part 3: Assembling the Cake

1. **Level the Cakes:** Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. This will ensure that the cake layers are even and the frosting is applied smoothly.
2. **Place First Layer:** Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving platter.
3. **Add Whipped Cream and Strawberries:** Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the first cake layer, then arrange sliced strawberries over the cream.
4. **Place Second Layer:** Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the strawberries and cream.
5. **Frost the Cake:** Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream, creating a smooth and even layer.
6. **Garnish with Strawberries:** Decorate the top of the cake with fresh strawberry slices. You can arrange them in a circular pattern or create a more abstract design.
7. **Chill the Cake:** Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the whipped cream to set and the flavors to meld together.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, helps them to emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother and more consistent batter.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
* **Use a Serrated Knife to Level the Cakes:** A serrated knife will help you to level the cakes evenly without tearing them.
* **Chill the Cake Before Serving:** Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld together and the whipped cream to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
* **Macerate the Strawberries:** Macerating the strawberries with a little sugar helps to draw out their natural juices and enhance their flavor.
* **Stabilize Whipped Cream:** To prevent the whipped cream from weeping, consider using a stabilizer such as cornstarch or gelatin. Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin (bloomed in cold water) to the heavy cream before whipping.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Cake Flavor:** You can use different cake flavors for this recipe. Vanilla, almond, or lemon cake would all be delicious choices.
* **Fruit:** Try using other fruits in addition to or instead of strawberries. Raspberries, blueberries, or peaches would all be great options.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the whipped cream for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Almond Extract:** Substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a nutty flavor.
* **Gluten-Free:** To make this cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and follow the recipe as directed.
* **Dairy-Free:** To make this cake dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute, dairy-free milk (such as almond milk or soy milk), and dairy-free whipped cream.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve the Strawberry Cream Cake chilled.
* Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
* Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream.
* Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing iced tea.

## Storage Instructions

* Store the Strawberry Cream Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

## Nutrition Information (Approximate)

(Per slice, based on 12 servings)

* Calories: 450-550
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 20-25g
* Cholesterol: 150-200mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Sugar: 30-40g
* Protein: 4-6g

*Please note that nutrition information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Conclusion

The Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist cake layers, sweet whipped cream, and juicy fresh strawberries, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow this recipe and enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cream Cake!