Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream

Introduction

Discover the Joy of Strawberry Cake

A delicious and moist strawberry cake topped with fluffy whipped cream, perfect for any occasion. This cake highlights fresh strawberries and a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Fresh Strawberries

250g fresh strawberries, pureed

All-purpose Flour

200g all-purpose flour

Baking Powder

1 ½ teaspoon baking powder

Baking Soda

½ teaspoon baking soda

Salt

¼ teaspoon salt

Granulated Sugar

150g granulated sugar

Vegetable Oil

120ml vegetable oil

Large Eggs

2 large eggs

Vanilla Extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Buttermilk

120ml buttermilk

Whipped Cream

Heavy Whipping Cream

250ml heavy whipping cream

Powdered Sugar

50g powdered sugar

Vanilla Extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Yield:

8 servings

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the pureed strawberries and mix thoroughly.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely.
8. For the whipped cream, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
9. Spread the whipped cream over the cooled cake.
10. Garnish with fresh strawberries before serving.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together 200g of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set the mixture aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 150g granulated sugar, 120ml vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Add Pureed Strawberries

Incorporate 250g of pureed fresh strawberries into the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with 120ml of buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat together 250ml of heavy whipping cream, 50g of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the whipped cream with fresh strawberries before slicing and serving the cake.

Notes

Fresh Strawberries

Using ripe, fresh strawberries will enhance the flavor of the cake.

Whipped Cream Consistency

Ensure that the heavy cream is chilled before beating to achieve the best whipped cream consistency.

Storage

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for slightly longer if stored properly.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days if it is covered with whipped cream and garnished with strawberries. Protect it from drying out by using a cake dome or placing it in an airtight container.

Refrigerator

For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake, especially if you have leftovers. Place it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 5 days. The whipped cream topping may soften, but the cake will remain moist.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the un-frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Whipped cream does not freeze well, so consider adding it fresh after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the strawberry cake with fresh strawberries on top for a vibrant presentation. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for added sweetness. Consider adding a sprinkle of mint leaves for a refreshing touch. This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any special occasion where a light dessert is desired.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 slice, assuming 8 servings total):
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

Ingredient Substitutions

- All-purpose flour: Use cake flour for a lighter texture or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Vegetable oil: Substitute with melted coconut oil, applesauce, or unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can be used as alternatives, but adjustments may be needed for liquid ingredients.
- Eggs: Replace with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg) for a vegan option.
- Buttermilk: Make a homemade substitute by mixing 120ml of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Heavy whipping cream: Use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream for a dairy-free version.

Cook Techniques

Mixing Ingredients

When mixing wet and dry ingredients, do so gently to avoid overmixing. This helps maintain a light and airy texture in the cake.

Pureeing Strawberries

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for pureeing to enhance the cake's flavor. Blend until smooth, but you can leave a few small pieces for texture if desired.

Baking Evenly

Preheat your oven to the specified temperature and ensure the cake pan is properly greased and floured. This will help the cake rise evenly and come out of the pan easily.

Testing for Doneness

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.

Making Whipped Cream

Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better volume. Beat until stiff peaks form, but be careful not to overwhip, which can turn it into butter.

Garnishing the Cake

Decorate the cake with fresh strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant color.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries in the cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

How can I make the cake extra moist?

Adding an extra tablespoon of buttermilk or incorporating a simple syrup soaking method after baking will enhance moisture.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and frost with whipped cream just before serving.

What is the best way to store leftover cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the cake and whipped cream fresh.

Conclusion

This strawberry cake with whipped cream is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fresh strawberries in a moist and airy dessert. The combination of the cake’s light texture and the rich, fluffy whipped cream makes it perfect for celebrations or a simple family dessert. Enjoy this sweet creation and make it a centerpiece at your next gathering.

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