Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh & Fruity : The strawberry glaze adds a burst of natural sweetness and color.
- Moist & Light Cake : The sponge is soft, airy, and perfectly balanced by the tangy glaze.
- Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples and fresh strawberries—no fancy equipment required.
- Customizable : Add sprinkles, whipped cream, or fresh berries for extra flair.
- Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for birthdays, brunches, or as a sweet afternoon snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs , room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk , room temperature
For the Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries , hulled and chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar , sifted
- 1–2 tbsp milk (or heavy cream for richness)
- Optional : 1–2 drops red food coloring for a brighter pink hue
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and lightly flour an 8x8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk (start and end with the dry ingredients). Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Glaze
- In a blender or food processor, puree the chopped strawberries until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, if desired.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the strawberry puree and powdered sugar. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk (or cream) until the glaze reaches your desired consistency—it should be thick but pourable.
- Optional: Add a drop or two of red food coloring for a more vibrant pink color.
Step 5: Glaze & Serve
- Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides.
- Let the glaze set for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or sprinkles, if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
- Fresh Strawberries : The glaze uses real strawberries for authentic flavor and a pop of color.
- Moist Cake Base : The combination of butter, sugar, and milk creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Simple Technique : No mixer required—just a few bowls and a spatula for easy prep.
Variations to Try
- Add Cream Cheese Frosting : Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting under the strawberry glaze for extra richness.
- Layer Cake : Double the recipe and stack two layers with strawberry jam or whipped cream in between.
- Gluten-Free Option : Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Version : Use plant-based butter, milk, and an egg replacer for a vegan-friendly cake.
- Chocolate Twist : Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-strawberry combo.
Tips for Success
- Room-Temperature Ingredients : Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix : Overmixing can make the cake dense—mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Top with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Serve alongside coffee, tea, or sparkling water for a light breakfast treat.
- Party Platter : Pair with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Glaze Cake is a celebration of fresh, fruity flavors and simple elegance. With its moist cake base, glossy strawberry glaze, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a casual dessert, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.
Your turn! Have you ever made a strawberry cake before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍓