Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping dessert that will wow your guests? This Strawberry Layer Cake is the perfect choice. Made with light, fluffy cake layers, fresh strawberries, and creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s an irresistible treat for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. The combination of sweet strawberries, smooth frosting, and a delicate cake texture makes it the perfect dessert for strawberry lovers.

This strawberry shortcake-style layer cake is easy to make with simple ingredients, including fresh strawberries, whipping cream, and cream cheese, creating the ultimate flavor combination. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, this cake is sure to be the highlight of the meal. Learn how to make this strawberry cake recipe from scratch with our step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 12 large eggs, room temperature (divided)
• 2 cups granulated sugar (divided)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (divided)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling and Decoration:

• 2 lbs fresh strawberries (1 1/2 lbs for filling and 1/2 lb for decoration)
• Chocolate chips (optional, for decorating)

Instructions:

Baking the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Grease and line only the bottom of a 9×13″ cake pan with parchment paper (repeat for a second pan if needed). Do not grease or line the sides of the pan to avoid misshaping the cake.
2. To make each cake layer: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 eggs and 1 cup sugar on high speed for about 10 minutes. The mixture should triple in volume.
3. Sift in 1 cup of flour and gently fold it in using a spatula until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
5. While the first layer bakes, repeat the same process for the second cake layer.
6. Let the baked cakes cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then run a thin spatula around the edges to loosen the cake. Allow them to cool to room temperature before removing the parchment paper.

Strawberry Filling:

1. Slice strawberries into halves or quarters and place them in a food processor. Pulse until you reach a chunky, applesauce-like consistency. Set aside.

Frosting:

1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth (about 1 minute).
2. Add the heavy whipping cream and beat on high for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.

Assembly:

1. Slice each cooled cake layer in half horizontally. Place the first layer on your serving dish (the cake is large and heavy, so assemble it directly on the serving plate).
2. Spread 1/3 of the strawberry puree over the first cake layer. Then, spread a thin layer of frosting on the second cake half and place it over the first layer.
3. Repeat the process: spread strawberry puree on top of the frosting, then top with frosting. Continue layering as follows: cake, strawberry puree, frosting, cake, strawberry puree, frosting, cake, strawberry puree, frosting, and finally, cake on top.
4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
5. Decorate the top with fresh strawberries and melted chocolate chips if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for strawberry lovers, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The combination of light cake layers, fresh strawberry filling, and creamy frosting is irresistible. Whether for a birthday, family gathering, or special occasion, this cake will impress everyone with its vibrant color, light texture, and fresh flavor.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• For a lighter cake: Consider using egg whites only for an airy texture.
• For a different frosting: You can substitute cream cheese frosting with buttercream or whipped cream for a less rich option.
• Add a twist: You can mix in a few tablespoons of lemon zest in the frosting or filling for a citrusy zing.
• Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream to accommodate dairy-free diets.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen strawberries? While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in the filling if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
• How far in advance can I make this cake? You can prepare the cake layers up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble and frost the cake on the day of serving for the best freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Layer Cake is perfect for serving at family gatherings, birthdays, or special events. Pair it with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea for an extra treat. For an elegant touch, add chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top.

Enjoy this light and fresh strawberry dessert as a show-stopping finale to any meal!