Strawberry Kefir Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Delight in a gluten-free treat that celebrates the sweet tanginess of strawberries, complemented by the probiotic goodness of kefir. Here's a step-by-step guide to making this luscious cake.

Cake Ingredients:

• 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup strawberry puree (from 1lb fresh strawberries)
• 1 cup strawberry vanilla oat milk kefir

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons strawberry puree
• 6 to 8 cups powdered sugar (adjust based on desired consistency)

Instructions:

Making the Strawberry Puree:

1. Hull the strawberries and blend until smooth.
2. Cook the puree in a stock pot over medium heat for about 20 minutes to reduce the liquid. Allow it to cool.

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch cake pans with non-stick baking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract, kefir, and 1/2 cup of the cooled strawberry puree.
4. Whisk together the dry ingredients and gradually mix them into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely.

For the Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
3. Gradually beat in 6 cups of powdered sugar, adding more as needed, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
4. Once the cakes are cool, slice them for layering if desired. Spread frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake.

This Strawberry Kefir Cake offers a delightful balance of fruity freshness and creamy indulgence, perfect for any special occasion or simply as a delightful dessert. Enjoy the burst of natural strawberry flavor in every bite!