How to Make a Strawberry Layer Cake

Few things are more delightful than a fresh, homemade Strawberry Layer Cake. This classic dessert, with its moist cake layers, fresh strawberries, and rich frosting, is a showstopper for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer picnic, birthday celebration, or just a sweet craving, this cake never fails to impress.

This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through everything—from selecting the freshest ingredients to assembling and decorating your masterpiece. By the end, you’ll have a bakery-worthy strawberry layer cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients 🛒

For the Cake Layers:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (or cake flour for a lighter texture)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup strawberry puree (made from fresh or frozen strawberries)

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)

For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup strawberry puree or reduction
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Strawberry Layer Cake 🍰

• Preheat the Oven : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

• Mix the Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

• Cream the Butter and Sugar : In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Stir in strawberry puree and vanilla extract until just combined.

• Bake the Cake Layers : Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared cake pans.. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely before assembling.

• Prepare the Strawberry Filling : Toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for 15-20 minutes to release juices.

• Make the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting : Whip the softened butter until creamy, then slowly mix in the powdered sugar.. Mix in strawberry puree and vanilla extract, beating for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

• Assemble the Cake : Place the first cake layer on a serving plate, spread buttercream frosting, and add macerated strawberries. Repeat for the second layer. Place the final cake layer and apply a thin crumb coat, chilling for 20 minutes to set.

• Frost and Decorate : Spread remaining frosting evenly over the cake and decorate with fresh strawberries, piped rosettes, or a chocolate drizzle.

For more expert baking tips, check out 10 Baking Tips for Perfect Cakes to ensure your cakes turn out light, fluffy, and delicious every time

For more delicious strawberry-inspired treats, try our Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake for a fun, crunchy twist or the Strawberry Earthquake Cake for a gooey, indulgent delight! 🍓🍰

Storage and Serving Recommendations 🛋️

Refrigeration:

• Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Wrap individual cake layers in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.

📌 Pro Tip: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence! 🍦

This Strawberry Layer Cake is the ultimate blend of fresh, fruity flavors and soft, moist cake. Whether for a special celebration or casual treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

Try it today and experience the magic of homemade strawberry perfection! 🍓🍰

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