This Sumptuous Strawberry Layer Cake is a celebration of strawberries in every bite, from its moist, tender crumb infused with a homemade strawberry reduction to its lusciously creamy cream cheese frosting, also enriched with the vibrant taste of strawberries. The addition of fresh strawberries as a topping not only adds a burst of freshness but also makes this cake a visually stunning centerpiece for any table. Perfect for those who appreciate the delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this cake promises to deliver a truly gourmet experience.
Why You’ll Love This:
The magic of this cake lies in its ability to harmonize different textures and flavors. The strawberry reduction, made from fresh strawberries, infuses the cake with a natural, fruity sweetness and a beautiful, natural color, enhanced with just a hint of food coloring if desired. The cream cheese frosting, whipped into silky perfection and flavored with the same homemade reduction, offers a creamy counterpoint to the cake’s tender crumb.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for spring and summer celebrations, including birthdays, Mother’s Day, or anniversaries, this cake brings the taste of the season to any event. It’s also a wonderful choice for a high tea or a fancy brunch, where its elegance and refreshing strawberry flavor can truly shine.
Decoration Tips:
For a breathtaking presentation, adorn the cake with fresh strawberries on top. Consider halving or slicing strawberries for a layered look, or use whole strawberries for a more dramatic effect. Edible flowers, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of elegance. For an added flair, drizzle with a little strawberry reduction or garnish with swirls of cream cheese frosting piped around the edges.
Strawberry Reduction:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup sugar
Cake Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ½ cup strawberry reduction
- 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/4 cup strawberry reduction
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
To Assemble:
- Make the Strawberry Reduction: Combine strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until thickened. Cool completely.
- Bake the Cake: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine, adding the strawberry reduction last. Divide batter into prepared pans. Bake until done, then cool.
- Prepare the Frosting: Whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and strawberry reduction until creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the cakes with frosting in between and on top. Decorate with fresh strawberries.
Enjoy this exquisite Strawberry Layer Cake, where every slice is a testament to the joy of baking with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
