Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Glaze | Easy & Delicious

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this Strawberry Cake topped with a luscious Strawberry Cream Glaze. This recipe elevates the classic yellow cake by incorporating the fresh, juicy essence of strawberries, making it an exquisite choice for any celebratory occasion or casual get-together. Whether you are hosting a spring picnic, a summer brunch, or just a special family dinner, this strawberry-infused creation promises to be the centerpiece of your dessert table.

Starting with a simple base of yellow cake, enhanced by the natural sweetness of pureed strawberries, each layer builds upon the next to create a symphony of flavors. The homemade strawberry glaze adds a glossy, vibrant touch that not only enhances the cake’s moisture but also deepens the strawberry flavor profile. Finished with a fluffy whipped cream topping and adorned with fresh strawberry slices, this cake is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Follow this comprehensive guide to bake a masterpiece that combines simplicity with gourmet flair, perfect for making any occasion a bit more special. With straightforward instructions and helpful tips, even novice bakers can successfully craft this visually stunning and tasty dessert.

Ingredients Overview

For the Cake:

• Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (alternative: homemade yellow cake recipe)
• Fresh Strawberries: 1 cup, pureed
• Vegetable Oil: ½ cup
• Large Eggs: 3
• Water: ½ cup

Strawberry Glaze:

• Fresh Strawberries: 1 cup, chopped
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
• Water: ¼ cup
• Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (optional for a tangy twist)

Whipped Cream Topping:

• Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup
• Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon

Decoration:

• Fresh Strawberries: Use halved or whole berries for topping

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Baking the Cake

1. Oven Preparation: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Apply a light coating of non-stick spray or butter and flour to a 9-inch cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a sizable bowl, combine the cake mix, strawberry puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it’s smooth, eliminating any lumps.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan, leveling the top with a spatula. Put it in the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes. To test if the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the middle, it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature before applying the glaze.

Creating the Strawberry Glaze

1. Cook the Strawberry Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes clear, usually within 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Lemon Juice: Incorporate the lemon juice if desired and stir thoroughly. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before evenly spreading it over the cooled cake.

Whipping the Cream

1. Prep for Whipping: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters by placing them in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This helps achieve a better whip.
2. Make the Whipped Cream: Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in the chilled bowl until the mixture forms stiff peaks. Be cautious not to over-whip, as the cream may become buttery.

Assembling the Cake

1. Layering: Once the strawberry glaze has set on the cake, smoothly layer on the whipped cream topping.
2. Decorate: Garnish with fresh strawberry halves or whole berries to create an appealing and fresh look.

Helpful Tips

To ensure your Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Glaze turns out perfectly, here are some essential baking tips. Start by ensuring all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and butter, which will help them blend more smoothly into the batter. When pureeing your strawberries for the cake and glaze, use a fine mesh sieve to strain out seeds for a smoother consistency in both the cake mix and the glaze. This extra step ensures a finer texture and more elegant presentation.

When mixing your cake batter, stir until just combined and no more. Overmixing might result in a cake that’s heavy and firm instead of being light and airy. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean if the cake is ready. Allow the cake to rest and cool in the pan on a wire rack for approximately 10 minutes before trying to take it out. This helps the cake set and reduces the chance of breaking.

For the whipped cream topping, make sure the cream is very cold to help it whip better. Use a chilled bowl and beaters to speed up the process and achieve a better rise. When applying the strawberry glaze, allow it to cool slightly before spreading it on the cake to prevent it from soaking into the cake too much, which could potentially make the layers soggy.

Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious, professionally-looking Strawberry Cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conservation and Storage

Proper conservation and storage are crucial for maintaining the freshness and texture of your Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Glaze. After decorating your cake with the strawberry glaze and whipped cream topping, it’s important to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. This will help stabilize the whipped cream and keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant.

To store the cake, place it in a refrigerator set at or below 40°F (4°C). If you have a cake carrier, use it to cover the cake; otherwise, a large overturned bowl that doesn’t touch the frosting can work as a protective dome. This setup prevents the cake from absorbing odors and flavors from other foods stored in the refrigerator.

For short-term storage, the cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days without significant loss of quality. Make sure it’s covered lightly with plastic wrap or under a cake dome to protect it from drying out. For longer storage, individual slices of the cake can be frozen. To freeze, place slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. These wrapped slices can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.

Avoid leaving them at room temperature to prevent the whipped cream from melting and the strawberries from becoming too soggy. Following these storage guidelines will ensure that your cake remains as delicious as the day it was made.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to various tastes and occasions. For a delightful twist, consider using a mix of berries such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries for the glaze to create a mixed berry glaze. Chocolate lovers can spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the cooled cake before adding the strawberry glaze for a decadent touch.

For those who enjoy citrus flavors, adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the cake batter or substituting lemon juice with orange juice in the glaze can introduce a refreshing citrus note. Another variant could involve using mascarpone cheese instead of heavy whipping cream for the topping, offering a richer and creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

The Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Glaze is a versatile dessert that shines at both casual and formal gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your presentation and delight your guests:

1. Accompaniments: Pair slices of this strawberry cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream to complement the flavors. The creaminess of the ice cream juxtaposes beautifully with the moist texture of the cake and the freshness of the strawberries.

2. Beverage Pairing: Serve this cake with a refreshing glass of Prosecco or a sweet dessert wine like Moscato to elevate the dining experience. The bubbles and sweetness of the wine pair wonderfully with the lightness of the cake and the tartness of the strawberries. For non-alcoholic options, a freshly brewed iced tea or a sparkling lemonade would be a delightful accompaniment that complements the fruity theme.

3. Presentation: For a stunning display, arrange the whole cake on a decorative stand as the centerpiece of your dessert table. Garnish the cake with additional fresh strawberries, mint leaves, and perhaps some edible flowers to create an inviting and colorful presentation.

4. Seasonal Variations: Depending on the season, consider adding slices of other fresh fruits like peaches, raspberries, or blueberries around the cake for added color and variety. This not only makes the dish more visually appealing but also introduces different flavors that can complement the strawberry theme.

5. Breakfast Twist: Believe it or not, a small slice of this strawberry cake could serve as a luxurious breakfast treat. Pair it with a cup of strong coffee or a latte for a morning indulgence that feels special and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Strawberry Cake with gluten-free ingredients?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet by substituting the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix or using a homemade gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the cookie butter and cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.

What can I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as expired baking powder can lose its effectiveness. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, which can deflate the mixture and prevent it from rising during baking.

Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it wrapped at room temperature. Prepare the glaze and whipped cream and assemble the cake on the day of serving to keep everything fresh.

What steps can I take to keep the whipped cream from melting? Make sure the whipped cream is well chilled before you whip it, and keep the cake refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Using a stabilizer, such as gelatin or cornstarch, can also help maintain the structure of the whipped cream, especially in warm weather.

Is there a substitute for the fresh strawberries in the recipe?
While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use high-quality frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw and drain them thoroughly before pureeing to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake batter and glaze.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Glaze embodies the essence of spring and summer with its fresh, vibrant flavors and stunning presentation. This cake not only serves as a delicious treat but also as a centerpiece that brightens any table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, following the detailed steps and tips provided will help you create a dessert that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to serve and savor. Embrace the versatility of this recipe by experimenting with different variations and enjoy the process of crafting a truly delightful culinary creation.

If you’re seeking more exquisite strawberry-themed desserts, don’t miss trying the Strawberries and Cream Layer Cake. Discover a wonderful recipe that perfectly captures the essence of strawberries paired with creamy delight here. This beautifully layered cake is ideal for making any celebration even more special.

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