
Indulge in a Strawberry Red Velvet Dream Cake
Nothing beats the combination of luscious red velvet layers, creamy frosting, and fresh strawberries. This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is the ultimate showstopper dessert, perfect for any special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Frosting:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration:
- 1 ½ cups (300g) fresh strawberries, sliced or halved
- 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup or glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely on wire racks before assembling.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract for a smooth, creamy frosting.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 5: Garnish the Cake
- Arrange fresh strawberry halves on top of the cake.
- Drizzle strawberry syrup or glaze over the strawberries for an elegant finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Buttermilk Substitute: No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Level Cake Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops from the cake layers for a smoother assembly.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes for clean slices.
Storage Instructions
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- To freeze, wrap slices individually and keep them frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I replace strawberries with other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries make an excellent alternative.
Q: What if I don’t have red food coloring?
A: You can use natural beetroot powder or leave it out for a non-traditional version of the cake.
Q: How do I make the cake extra moist?
A: Don’t overmix the batter, and avoid overbaking. You can also brush the layers with a simple sugar syrup before frosting.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a masterpiece that combines the soft, rich flavors of red velvet with the natural sweetness of strawberries. The creamy frosting ties everything together, making it an irresistible treat for everyone.