Name: Strawberry Cake – really easy cake recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 500 g strawberries (hulled); 1 cup sugar (caster/superfine best but granulated ok too); 1/2 cup oil (canola or vegetable oil); 2 large eggs ((~50g/1.75 oz each)); 1 tbsp grated lemon rind; 1/4 cup lemon juice ((1 large lemon)); 1 cup plain yoghurt (unsweetened (Greek or just plain)); 1 tsp vanilla extract ((or essence)); 2 1/4 cups flour (plain/all purpose); 4 tsp baking powder ((or 1 1/4 tsp baking soda)); 1 pinch salt; Whipped cream; Extra strawberries; Icing sugar (for dusting)

Introduction to Strawberry Cake Recipe

Why is homemade strawberry cake a must-try?

There’s something undeniably delightful about a homemade strawberry cake, especially when it bursts with the fresh flavors of ripe strawberries. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long week, this easy strawberry cake recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender crumb, moisture from yogurt, and the natural sweetness of strawberries creates an irresistible dessert that begs to be shared.

What makes this cake particularly special is its versatility. Enjoy it as a simple afternoon snack with a cup of tea or dress it up for dessert at a dinner party. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates it to the next level of indulgence. Plus, with only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy young professionals!

If you're interested in perfecting your baking skills, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. For more baking inspiration, you might check out King Arthur Baking or Smitten Kitchen. So, let’s dive into the delicious world of strawberry cake!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cake

Basic ingredients you'll need

Creating a delicious strawberry cake recipe starts with some essential ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Strawberries: 500g (1 lb), hulled and ready to burst with flavor.
Sugar: 1 cup, caster or granulated for sweetness.
Oil: ½ cup; canola or vegetable oil works best.
Eggs: 2 large, giving the cake a lovely structure.
Lemon: 1 tablespoon of grated lemon rind and ¼ cup of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Yogurt: 1 cup, unsweetened Greek or plain to keep the cake moist.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for a warm aroma.

To balance these wet ingredients, you will need the following dry ingredients: 2 ¼ cups of plain flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

Want to elevate your cake a notch? Consider adding a few optional ingredients. You might enjoy:

Almond extract: A teaspoon can add a delightful nutty flavor.
Cinnamon: A pinch can enhance the cake's warmth and depth.
Zest from other citrus fruits: Like oranges for a refreshing twist.

For serving, don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream, extra strawberries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar! Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and remember to check out more tips on Perfect Strawberry Desserts for inspiration!

Preparing Strawberry Cake

Baking a strawberry cake can be one of the most delightful experiences in the kitchen, especially when those fresh strawberries are bursting with flavor! With this really easy cake recipe, you’ll find that it’s not only simple but also a perfect way to impress friends or family. Let’s dive into the steps of prepping your scrumptious strawberry cake!

Gather and prep your strawberries

Start by selecting plump, ripe strawberries. You’ll need about 500g (1 lb), so don’t skimp on quality! Remove the tops and wash them thoroughly. Aim to dice roughly one cup of strawberries into 1.5cm pieces for mixing into the batter. For the beautiful topping, slice the remaining strawberries in half. This contrast in presentation will make your cake picture-perfect. If you’re looking to learn more about the importance of fresh fruits in baking, check out this source on fruit preservation.

Mix the wet ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the wet ingredients. You’ll want to mix 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of oil, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon of grated lemon rind, and ¼ cup of lemon juice. The acid from the lemon will balance the sweetness of the cake and enhance the strawberry flavor. Add 1 cup of plain yogurt and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these together until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is slightly fluffy. This step is crucial, as a well-mixed wet base sets the tone for the cake’s final texture.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these beforehand helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agent, which will give your cake that lovely rise.

Create the cake batter

Once your dry ingredients are well combined, it’s time to blend them into your wet mixture. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is lump-free. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a tender crumb for your strawberry cake! As you stir, gently fold in the diced strawberries to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake your strawberry cake

Pour half of the batter into a greased and lined 23 cm (9") cake pan. Smooth the top and scatter the diced strawberries, followed by the remaining batter. Smooth the surface again, and place the halved strawberries cut-side down on top. Pop it in the preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; if it gets too golden before the time is up, cover it lightly with foil.

Let it cool and prepare for serving

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it stand in the pan for about 15 minutes. This will help it firm up a bit. Then, turn it out onto a cooling rack to cool for another 15 minutes or longer. Dust it with icing sugar before serving, pairing it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy your cake either warm or at room temperature; both are delicious!

By following these easy steps, you’ll have a stunning and flavorful strawberry cake that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Happy baking!

Variations on Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Inspired Variation

Transform your strawberry cake recipe into a delightful strawberry shortcake! Simply layer light, fluffy whipped cream on top of your baked cake, adding sliced strawberries between layers for a refreshing twist. You can also serve individual slices with a generous dollop of whipped cream, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. This variation is perfect for summer gatherings or simply to enjoy with family.

Strawberry and Cream Cheese Swirl Cake

Elevate your cake game with a strawberry and cream cheese swirl! Incorporate a simple cream cheese mixture into your strawberry cake recipe by blending softened cream cheese, a bit of sugar, and vanilla. Drop dollops of this mixture into your batter before baking, and gently swirl it with a knife for a beautiful marbled effect. This adds a creamy richness that complements the bright strawberries, making your cake even more decadent.

Experimenting with these variations not only brings new flavors to your kitchen but also makes for delightful presentations sure to impress!

Cooking tips and notes for Strawberry Cake

Key tips for perfect baking

To achieve the ideal texture for your strawberry cake recipe, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a uniform batter. Remember, it's crucial not to overload with strawberries. Stick to the recommended one cup to prevent excess moisture, which can result in a longer bake time. Preheating your oven is essential, too. An adequately heated oven, around 200°C, makes a world of difference in achieving that perfect rise.

Insights on ingredient swaps

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor or swap out the canola oil for melted coconut oil. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup—just adjust the ratio to maintain the right batter consistency. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For further guidance, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for expert insights on baking substitutions.

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Cake

Creative ways to serve and present your cake

Elevate your strawberry cake recipe by presenting it with flair! Place slices on elegant dessert plates, dusted lightly with powdered sugar. For a pop of color, adorn each plate with a few fresh strawberry halves. You can also drizzle a homemade strawberry sauce over the top for an extra touch of indulgence. If you're feeling adventurous, consider layering the cake with whipped cream between the slices or adding a dollop on top. Serve it on a rustic wooden board for that charming, home-baked feel.

Pairing options for drinks and sides

What goes perfectly with your delightful strawberry cake? For a refreshing contrast, serve it with iced tea, lemonade, or a sparkling water infused with fresh lemon and mint. If you prefer something warm, a cup of brewed coffee or chai can beautifully complement the sweetness of the cake. Pairing it with a light fruit salad on the side can enhance the fresh strawberry flavors while adding a refreshing crunch. Enjoy your cake with friends, and don't forget to share your own serving suggestions—what's your favorite way to enjoy strawberry cake?

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Cake

Preparation Time

You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix your batter. This is the perfect time to grab those lovely strawberries and get your kitchen ready for some delightful baking!

Cooking Time

Let that deliciousness bake for 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remember: the magic happens at 200°C/390°F!

Total Time

Altogether, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time to whip up something extraordinary!

For tips on timing and other adjustments, check out this guide on baking times for more ideas! Enjoy your delightful strawberry cake!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Cake

Calories per Slice

This delightful strawberry cake recipe has approximately 271 calories per slice, making it a moderately indulgent treat that can still fit into a balanced diet.

Key Nutritional Highlights

Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 11g (with only 1g saturated fat!)
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C (27mg) and Calcium (111mg)

This cake is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to the fresh strawberries and yogurt! Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a special snack, you can savor the flavors without guilt. For a deeper understanding of strawberries' health benefits, you can check out HCSC. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Strawberry Cake Recipe

What can I substitute for yogurt in this recipe?

If you're out of yogurt or prefer an alternative, you can easily replace it with buttermilk or sour cream. Each option will lend unique flavors while keeping your cake moist. For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth—these can give a lovely creaminess similar to yogurt.

How can I store leftover strawberry cake?

To keep your delicious strawberry cake fresh, simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will last about five days at room temperature. If you’re in a particularly warm area, consider refrigerating it and allowing it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze strawberry cake?

Absolutely! This strawberry cake freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best results. Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

For more details and tips, check out King Arthur Baking, which has great resources on cake storage and freezing techniques!

Conclusion on Strawberry Cake

Making and sharing a strawberry cake brings joy to every gathering. Its bright, fresh flavors are perfect for any occasion, and the ease of preparation means you can whip it up at a moment's notice. Enjoy your delightful creation with loved ones, and savor the smiles it brings!