If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that captures the fresh, sun-kissed sweetness of ripe berries paired with creamy, dreamy frosting, then this Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Layers of moist cake, luscious strawberry filling, and silky cream cheese frosting come together to create a show-stopping dessert that feels like summer in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to sweeten up an ordinary day, this cake delivers unforgettable flavor and a stunning presentation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple yet essential is the secret to making this Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role, from providing structure and richness to adding fresh, fruity brightness and a luscious texture that ties everything together perfectly.
- 12 large eggs (room temperature, divided): Eggs help create a light yet sturdy cake base while adding moisture for that perfect crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar (divided): Sugar sweetens and tenderizes the cake while balancing the tang from the cream cheese.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (divided): Flour provides the foundation, delivering structure and that wonderfully soft texture.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth, creamy frosting consistency.
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened at room temp): Cream cheese lends a tangy creaminess that complements the strawberries beautifully.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: This extra sugar is for sweetening the cream cheese frosting just right.
- 2 lbs fresh strawberries (1 1/2 lbs to blend and put inside the cake, 1/2 lb to decorate the top): Fresh strawberries bring juicy sweetness, vibrant color, and a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Chocolate chips to melt and decorate the top; optional: For a little extra indulgence and contrast, melted chocolate is a delightful finish.
How to Make Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your cake pans with a light layer of butter or non-stick spray. Using room temperature eggs is crucial because they whip to a better volume, which helps your cakes rise beautifully. Divide the eggs and sugar, beating the whites and yolks separately before gently folding them together with the sifted flour. This delicate process keeps your layers airy and tender, setting the perfect stage for the strawberry layers.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberry Filling
While the cakes bake and cool, blend 1 1/2 pounds of fresh strawberries until smooth for the inside filling. This vibrant puree will infuse your layers with a natural, fresh sweetness that feels both indulgent and wholesome. For an extra touch, gently fold in small strawberry chunks to maintain delightful bursts of texture in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Whip the softened cream cheese with the heavy cream and 3/4 cup sugar until silky smooth and fluffy. This frosting is the cake’s glamorous finishing touch: tangy enough to balance the sweet strawberries, yet rich enough to feel like pure comfort. Keep the frosting chilled until you’re ready to assemble for the best consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe
Layer the cake with a generous spread of strawberry filling, followed by a smooth blanket of cream cheese frosting. Repeat this layering to create those beautiful, eye-catching tiers. Finally, frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. If you’re feeling fancy, melt some chocolate chips and drizzle them artistically across the top, then decorate with fresh strawberry halves for an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries are an obvious and stunning garnish, sliced or halved to showcase their juicy interior. For a bit of sparkle and texture, sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar or add a drizzling of melted chocolate for a striking contrast. Mint leaves add a hint of green and fresh aroma that brightens the visual and flavor appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to keep things light and luscious. A simple mixed berry salad with mint or a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee also pairs beautifully by balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring your Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe to the table on a pretty cake stand to make it the undeniable centerpiece. For a fun twist, try serving individual slices in clear glass dessert cups layered with extra berry compote or crushed cookies. You can even turn this recipe into mini cakes or cupcakes while keeping all the same flavors and charm intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld even more wonderfully.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve that creamy frosting texture and fresh strawberry flavor.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, let frozen slices thaw fully and then bring to room temperature for optimum softness and taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe?
Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, thawed frozen strawberries can work. Just be sure to drain extra liquid to avoid making the cake soggy.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Using room temperature eggs and folding the batter gently helps keep the cake tender and moist. Also, don’t overbake; take it out when a toothpick comes out clean but the cake still springs back slightly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix with xanthan gum to maintain the texture. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
What if I want a lighter frosting?
Try using half cream cheese and half whipped heavy cream to create a lighter, fluffier frosting that still complements the strawberries perfectly.
How long does this Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe last once served?
Once assembled and frosted, it’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days. Keep refrigerated and covered to maintain freshness and avoid drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a homemade Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe with loved ones, especially when it’s as vibrant and delicious as this one. From its moist layers to its luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of cake that tastes like pure happiness!
