Moist Strawberry Velvet Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the world of decadent desserts with our Moist Strawberry Velvet Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe! This cake is a masterclass in balance and flavor, combining the tender crumb of a velvet cake with the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of creamy frosting. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their friends and family with a show-stopping dessert. So why not get creative and give it a try?

Why This Works

• The combination of strawberry puree and buttermilk gives the cake a moist and tender crumb, while the creamy frosting adds a rich and velvety texture.
• The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• The end result is a stunning and impressive dessert that’s sure to wow your friends and family, with minimal effort required.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups strawberry puree
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup creamy frosting (recipe below)
• Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Step 2: Mix the Batter In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined. Stir in strawberry puree and vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: Divide and Bake Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Step 4: Assemble and Frost Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of creamy frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Garnish with sliced strawberries.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, make sure to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re unsure, you can also check the cakes by gently pressing on the top – if they feel firm and springy, they’re done.

Crunch Factor

This cake is all about the tender crumb and velvety frosting, so you won’t need to worry about achieving a crunchy texture. However, if you want to add some extra texture to your cake, you could try sprinkling some chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the frosting before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a high-quality strawberry puree for the best flavor.
• Don’t overbake the cakes – this can lead to a dry and crumbly texture.
• Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a handful of chopped nuts to the batter.

Storage Tips

• Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Freeze the cake for up to 2 months – simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake is perfect for gifting to friends and family, and can be packaged in a variety of ways. Try placing the cake in a decorative tin or cake box, and topping it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh strawberries. You could also wrap the cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a gift basket filled with other sweet treats.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, to create a non-dairy version of the cake.
• Experiment with different types of frosting, such as a cream cheese or whipped cream frosting, to change up the flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake is too dense, try adding a little more buttermilk or egg to the batter.
• If your frosting is too thin, try adding a little more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, try adding a little more cream or milk.
• If you’re having trouble getting the cakes to release from the pans, try running a knife around the edges of the pan before turning the cakes out onto a wire rack.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Is the cake gluten-free? No, the cake contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Simply multiply all of the ingredients by two and bake the cakes in two 9×13 inch pans.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a moist and delicious strawberry velvet cake with creamy frosting that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With its tender crumb, velvety frosting, and sweet strawberry flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion. So why not get baking and see what you can create? Don’t forget to share your photos and tips with us on social media, and happy baking!