Fresh Strawberry Cake – Moist, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

If you’re searching for the ultimate homemade strawberry cake recipe that’s moist, flavorful, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, you’ve found it. This cake is made completely from scratch with real strawberries, not artificial flavoring, giving it a natural sweetness and vibrant pink color. Perfect for spring gatherings, summer parties, birthdays, or just a weekend dessert, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: step-by-step instructions, expert baking tips, ingredient breakdown, variations, and storage advice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this fresh strawberry cake will turn out beautifully every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Real Strawberries – Made with both diced strawberries and strawberry puree for rich flavor.
• Moist and Tender – Sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures a soft, fluffy crumb.
• Beginner-Friendly – Simple steps, no complicated techniques.
• Versatile – Perfect for birthdays, baby showers, picnics, or a weekend treat.
• Frosting Options – Pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or light whipped cream.

Ingredient Breakdown

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this strawberry cake stand out.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure of the cake.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of strawberries.
• Unsalted Butter & Vegetable Oil: The butter gives flavor, while the oil keeps the cake moist.
• Eggs: Help bind the cake and add richness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds tang and ensures the cake stays soft.
• Milk: Lightens the batter for the perfect texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents for rise and fluffiness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• Strawberries: Both diced strawberries and strawberry puree infuse the cake with fresh fruitiness.

Tips and Tricks

To make your cake a success every time, follow these expert tips:

1. Use fresh, ripe strawberries – Overripe strawberries can make the batter too watery.
2. Measure ingredients correctly – Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
3. Room temperature ingredients – Butter, eggs, and dairy should be at room temperature for a smoother batter.
4. Don’t overmix – Overmixing can make the cake dense. Fold ingredients gently.
5. Check doneness early – Ovens vary; insert a toothpick at 35 minutes. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Variations and Customizations

Want to make this recipe your own? Try these delicious variations:

• Layer Cake: Bake in two round pans and stack with cream cheese frosting.
• Cupcakes: Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes.
• Strawberry Lemon Cake: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of juice for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Strawberry Shortcake Style: Top slices with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Pairing Suggestions

This strawberry cake is delicious on its own, but it shines when paired with:

• Cream Cheese Frosting – Rich and tangy, perfect with strawberries.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy for a summer-friendly dessert.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic combination that makes every bite indulgent.
• Fresh Berries – Garnish with blueberries, raspberries, or extra strawberries.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess liquid.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake the cake a day in advance, wrap tightly, and frost before serving.

How do I make the cake pinker naturally?
Use ripe strawberries for puree, or add a touch of beet juice for natural coloring.

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?
Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt works perfectly.