Homemade Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Introduction

Homemade Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting is a classic, from-scratch dessert that delivers pure strawberry flavor in every bite. Soft, tender cake layers made with real strawberries are stacked high and finished with a smooth, creamy strawberry frosting that’s naturally sweet, fruity, and beautifully pink. This is the kind of cake that feels special the moment it hits the table.

What makes this cake truly stand out is its use of real strawberries instead of artificial flavoring. Fresh strawberry purée gives the cake a natural sweetness and subtle tang, while also keeping the crumb moist and delicate. The frosting mirrors those flavors, creating a cohesive, fruit-forward dessert that’s rich without being heavy.

This strawberry layer cake is perfect for birthdays, spring and summer celebrations, baby showers, holidays, and any occasion where you want a show-stopping dessert that tastes just as good as it looks. While it has a bakery-style appearance, the steps are straightforward and approachable for home bakers.

If you’re looking for a strawberry cake that’s flavorful, tender, and made completely from scratch, this recipe is a must-have in your baking collection.

Ingredients
Strawberry Cake Layers

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, room temperature

¾ cup strawberry purée (fresh strawberries blended smooth)

½ cup buttermilk, room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4–5 cups powdered sugar

½ cup strawberry purée or reduced strawberry purée

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish

Fresh strawberries

Strawberry crumbs or sprinkles

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in strawberry purée and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the batter alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Variations

Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake: Add lemon zest to the batter and frosting.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace half the butter with cream cheese.

Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Add chocolate ganache between layers.

Mini Strawberry Cakes: Bake in smaller pans or cupcakes.

Extra Strawberry Flavor: Use reduced strawberry purée for a stronger taste.

Cooking Notes

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

Reducing the strawberry purée intensifies flavor and prevents excess moisture.

Room-temperature ingredients ensure smooth batter and even baking.

Level cake layers before frosting for a professional finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Homemade Strawberry Layer Cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake shines at birthdays, brunches, and special celebrations.

Tips

Chill cake layers slightly before frosting for easier handling.

Use a piping bag for decorative frosting edges.

Store cake covered to prevent drying.

Flavor deepens after a few hours of resting.

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Total Time

2 hours (including cooling and frosting)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 480

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 290mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw completely and drain excess liquid before puréeing.

Why is my strawberry cake dense?
Overmixing or too much liquid can affect texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake layers a day ahead and frost before serving.

Can I freeze the cake layers?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Homemade Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting is a beautifully balanced dessert that showcases real strawberry flavor in both the cake and the frosting. Soft, moist layers paired with creamy, fruit-forward frosting make this cake a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a fresh, from-scratch dessert, this strawberry layer cake is guaranteed to impress with both flavor and presentation.

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