Strawberry Cake in just 10 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Recipe — now there’s a name that just screams summer, right? If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of sweet, fresh berries and fluffy cake, you know why this treat is a crowd favorite from coast to coast. Whether you’re whipping up the best strawberry shortcake for a family BBQ or looking for an easy strawberry shortcake recipe to impress at your next potluck, this classic dessert never disappoints.
It’s the fresh strawberries bursting with natural sweetness, the soft, tender cake layers, and the variety of ways you can dress it up that make strawberry shortcake a timeless delight. From grandma’s kitchen table to trendy cafes, this dessert is all about simple ingredients coming together to create something downright irresistible. So stick around — I’m about to show you how to nail this all-American favorite with ease and style.
A Sweet Slice of History: Why Strawberry Cake Stole Our Hearts
Believe it or not, strawberry cake has been charming dessert lovers in the U.S. for generations. While strawberries have been used in sweets since colonial times, it wasn’t until the 19th century that strawberry cakes started making waves. By the early 1900s, with more access to fresh produce and the rise of home baking, strawberry cake became a go-to treat for spring and summer celebrations.
And let’s be real—what’s not to love? The combination of light, moist cake layered with juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream checks all the right boxes. It’s fresh, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, Mother’s Day, or a backyard cookout, strawberry cake always brings a bit of sunshine to the table.
Fast forward to today, and you’ll find endless versions of this classic—from Southern-style sheet cakes topped with cream cheese frosting to gourmet layer cakes dressed in strawberry glaze. The variety is part of what keeps people coming back for more. And thanks to its Insta-worthy pink hue and crowd-pleasing flavor, the best strawberry cake recipes are trending once again in home kitchens and bakeries across the country.
So if you’re on the hunt for a strawberry cake recipe that’s easy to make but feels special every time, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this cake a true star.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Strawberry Cake Recipe
Before we dive into baking, let’s round up what you’ll need to make the best strawberry cake at home. This recipe uses everyday ingredients, but trust me, the flavor is anything but basic. And yes, fresh strawberries make all the difference.
For the Strawberry Cake:
- Fresh strawberries (chopped & puréed) – the real star of the show
- All-purpose flour – your go-to base for a soft, sturdy crumb
- Granulated sugar – to sweeten things up just right
- Baking powder – for that perfect lift
- Salt – just a pinch to balance the sweetness
- Eggs – room temperature, for better texture
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and flavor
- Whole milk or buttermilk – keeps the cake tender and moist
- Vanilla extract – because every good cake needs it
- (Optional) A few drops of natural red food coloring – to enhance the color if your berries are a bit pale
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- Cream cheese or butter – depending on whether you want it tangy or classic
- Powdered sugar – for that smooth, sweet finish
- Strawberry purée – for a fresh, fruity flavor burst
- Vanilla extract – ties all the flavors together
📝 Pro tip: If strawberries are out of season, frozen berries work too — just thaw and drain before using.
With just these simple ingredients, you’re one step away from creating a dreamy homemade strawberry cake that tastes as good as it looks. Ready to bake? Let’s jump into the step-by-step!
Easy Strawberry Cake Recipe – Step by Step (No Fancy Tools Needed!)
You don’t need to be a pro to make a strawberry cake that’s soft, flavorful, and downright irresistible. This version keeps it simple, using fresh ingredients and a few baking basics to deliver a truly homemade experience.
Let’s roll up those sleeves and get baking!
Step 1: Roast Your Strawberries for Maximum Flavor
Yes, you read that right—roasting the berries brings out their natural sugars and makes your cake taste like you picked them straight from the patch.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Spread 1½ cups sliced strawberries on a lined baking sheet
- Roast for 20 minutes, then mash lightly with a fork and cool
This gives your cake a deeper, almost jammy strawberry punch. Total game-changer.
Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (adds moisture and tang)
- ½ cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Your cooled roasted strawberry mash
Whisk until smooth and pink. Don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy—the flavor’s there.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Team Separately
In another bowl, combine:
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Sift if you like a lighter crumb, or just stir well.
Step 4: Combine & Fold
Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—we want a fluffy cake, not a rubbery one.
💡 Optional: Toss in ½ cup diced fresh strawberries for extra bursts of fruit in every bite.
Step 5: Bake It Up
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease and flour a 9×13 pan or two 8-inch round pans
- Pour the batter in and tap gently to release air bubbles
Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a rack.
Step 6: Frost It (Or Don’t—It’s Great Either Way!)
Want to keep it light? Dust with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream. Feeling fancy? Make a quick strawberry buttercream by blending softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a spoonful of puréed strawberries.
Top with fresh slices and enjoy every bite of this easy strawberry cake made 100% from scratch.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Strawberry Cake (Every Time!)
Baking the best strawberry cake isn’t just about following the recipe — it’s about the little details that make a big difference. Here are my go-to tips to help your cake come out light, flavorful, and totally unforgettable:
1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries
The sweeter the berry, the better the flavor. Look for strawberries that are bright red all the way through — no white centers! If strawberries are out of season, frozen will do the job. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first.
2. Roast or Reduce for Bold Flavor
Want to take it up a notch? Roast your strawberries or simmer the purée until it thickens. This concentrates the flavor and keeps your cake from tasting watery.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense or chewy, and we’re going for soft and fluffy.
4. Want That Pretty Pink Color?
Fresh berries don’t always give a strong color on their own. You can add a drop or two of natural red food coloring if you want that classic pink strawberry cake look — totally optional, but very Instagram-friendly!
5. Cool Completely Before Frosting
It’s tempting to rush, but frosting a warm cake is a recipe for disaster. Always let the cake cool fully before adding any topping, or your beautiful frosting will slide right off.
6. Add a Flavor Boost
A little lemon zest, almond extract, or even a splash of buttermilk can enhance the flavor of the strawberries and give your cake a unique twist.
With these tips, you’re all set to bake a strawberry cake that’s not just good—it’s bakery-worthy. I’ve tested these tricks time and again, and trust me, they make all the difference. From locking in moisture to boosting flavor, it’s the little things that turn a simple cake into something unforgettable.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, why not have a little fun with it? In the next section, I’ll show you some delicious variations on strawberry cake that’ll let you mix things up and make the recipe truly your own. Whether you’re craving something lighter, richer, or even gluten-free, we’ve got you covered!
Variations You Can Try – Make This Strawberry Cake Your Own
One of the best things about a good strawberry cake recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re baking to fit dietary needs, seasonal vibes, or personal taste, there’s a version for everyone. Here are some creative and delicious ways to put your spin on this classic cake:
- 1. Strawberry Shortcake Style
Want something light and summery? Skip the heavy frosting and slice your cake into layers. Add whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices between each layer. It turns into a delightful strawberry shortcake cake that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. - 2. Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake
Swap the standard frosting for a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting blended with strawberry purée. It adds a subtle pink hue, extra flavor, and a creamy texture that’s perfect for celebrations. - 3. Vegan Strawberry Cake
Going dairy-free or egg-free? Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat, substitute flax eggs or applesauce, and use vegan butter or oil. This version still delivers that soft, sweet, and fruity experience without any animal products. - 4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cake
Combine the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of chocolate by layering your cake with chocolate ganache or frosting. It tastes just like a chocolate-covered strawberry, only better. - 5. Strawberry Cupcakes
Prefer something handheld? Use the same batter to make strawberry cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to around 18–22 minutes. These are great for birthdays, bake sales, or casual get-togethers. - 6. Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (preferably one with xanthan gum) in place of all-purpose flour. If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk. This version still bakes up moist and flavorful while being safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
No matter how you personalize it, this easy strawberry cake can become your signature dessert. Feel free to experiment with flavors and textures that suit your taste and occasion.
In the next section, we’ll walk through how to serve and store your strawberry cake to keep it fresh and flavorful for longer.
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Strawberry Cake Serving Suggestions & Storage
Once your strawberry cake is baked and cooled, the real fun begins—serving it up in a way that makes people say wow. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a Sunday brunch, or just treating yourself, how you plate and present your cake can take it to the next level.
How to Serve Strawberry Cake Like a Pro
If you’re aiming for that best strawberry shortcake vibe, layer your slices with whipped cream and extra fresh strawberries. Want it extra fancy? Dust the top with powdered sugar, add a few mint leaves, or drizzle a little strawberry syrup on the plate before serving.
Pair your strawberry cake with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A warm cup of lemongrass or green tea
- Sparkling water infused with fresh strawberries and basil
For an easy weeknight dessert, serve this easy strawberry cake chilled, straight from the fridge. It firms up beautifully and tastes like a bite of summer with every forkful.
Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh
Strawberry cakes are moist and delicate, so proper storage is key to keeping them fresh.
- Room Temperature: If your cake doesn’t have fresh fruit or cream frosting, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: If topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or cream cheese frosting, store it in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Just make sure it’s covered well to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
- Freezer: Want to save some for later? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy.
Serving and storing your cake the right way ensures every bite stays just as delicious as the first. Up next, we’ll answer the most common questions home bakers ask when making a strawberry cake, so you’ll feel 100% confident the next time you bake.
| Nutritional Information & Recipe Details | |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Type | Dessert / Cake |
| Cuisine | American |
| Recipe Yield | 8–10 servings |
| Calories (per serving) | Approximately 320 kcal |
Conclusion- Thanks for Joining Me on This Strawberry Cake Journey
Baking this strawberry cake recipe has been such a rewarding experience — from the moment the sweet aroma filled my kitchen to that first delicious bite, it reminded me why this classic dessert never goes out of style. It’s simple, fresh, and truly a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Thank you for joining me on this baking journey! I hope you enjoy making and sharing this strawberry cake as much as I do. If you’re hungry for more tasty recipes and baking tips, be sure to check out the other articles on Joyful Cakes. There’s plenty more sweetness waiting to inspire your next kitchen adventure!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cake
Q1: What’s the best way to make an easy strawberry cake?
A: The best way is to use fresh, ripe strawberries and follow a simple recipe that balances moist cake layers with fresh strawberry purée and light frosting. Using quality ingredients and not overmixing the batter will ensure your cake turns out soft and flavorful every time.
Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry shortcake?
A: Yes! Frozen strawberries work well, especially when fresh berries are out of season. Just thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s texture.
Q3: Can I make this strawberry cake dairy-free or vegan?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and use plant-based butter or oil. This way, you can enjoy a moist and delicious vegan strawberry cake.
Q4: How long does a strawberry cake last?
A: When stored properly, a strawberry cake without fresh cream lasts up to 2 days at room temperature. Cakes with cream or fresh fruit toppings should be refrigerated and consumed within 4–5 days.
Tried this recipe? Leave a quick review and let me know how it went!