Strawberries and Cream Cake
Enjoy a delightful Strawberries and Cream Cake that combines soft cake layers, smooth cream cheese frosting, and fresh strawberries for a perfect summer dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts (if using).
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter between the pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, beating well after each cup. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Layer half of the sliced strawberries over the frosting.
- Place the second layer on top, and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Arrange the remaining strawberries beautifully on the top of the frosted cake.
Serve and Garnish
- If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves for color and flair.
- Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
This cake keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.