Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree (from about 1 cup fresh strawberries)
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberry Puree:
- Blend about 1 cup of fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth to make the strawberry puree.
- Measure out 1/2 cup for the cake batter and 1/4 cup for the frosting.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the softened butter, sour cream, and milk. Mix on low speed until the dry ingredients are moistened, then increase the speed to medium and beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of strawberry puree. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Strawberry Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the 1/4 cup of strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more strawberry puree or milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish the cake with fresh strawberries.
- Slice and serve!
This strawberry cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for celebrating any occasion or simply enjoying a sweet moment. The fresh strawberries in the cake and frosting add a burst of flavor that’s truly irresistible.
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