Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling – The Ultimate, Irresistible Recipe

Looking for a dessert that tastes like sunshine in every bite? This Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is the answer. Made with juicy, real strawberries and a luscious, homemade filling, this cake bursts with fruity flavor and old-fashioned goodness. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, brunch, or just because it’s strawberry season, this recipe checks all the boxes for texture, flavor, and show-stopping beauty.

This guide is your go-to for everything: from selecting the perfect berries to layering a cake that holds together beautifully. We’ll cover ingredients, baking tips, storage, creative twists, and answer your top questions.

Why This Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is a Must-Try

The story behind this Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling

Every home baker knows the moment when spring hits, and strawberries flood the markets—ripe, red, and begging to be transformed into something sweet. That’s exactly where this cake comes in. Unlike boxed mixes or artificial flavorings, this cake is built from scratch to honor the real fruit. The blend of sponge-like layers with a silky filling makes each slice a celebration.

Strawberry cake has become a symbol of light, elegant desserts. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic or serving it up with whipped cream for Sunday dinner, this version made with fresh fruit brings back the joy of homemade baking.

Why fresh strawberries beat artificial flavoring

Let’s face it—there’s no match for the real thing. Fresh strawberries bring more than just flavor—they bring aroma, juiciness, and even natural pink tones. Artificial strawberry flavor can often taste overly sweet or candy-like, and while it’s easier, it doesn’t carry the complexity of fresh berries.

Feature	Artificial Flavoring	Fresh Strawberries
Taste	Flat, overly sweet	Naturally sweet, tart
Color	Artificially pink	Natural pink/red tones
Texture	None	Juicy, pulpy
Nutritional Value	None	Rich in Vitamin C & fiber
Ideal For	Shortcuts only	Real, homemade baking

Using real fruit enhances the cake’s overall balance. It’s not just sweet—it’s fresh, vibrant, and full of life.

Seasonal benefits of using real strawberries

Strawberries are in peak season during spring and early summer. This is when they’re at their juiciest, sweetest, and most flavorful. Not only are you supporting local agriculture when buying seasonal produce, but you also save money and get better quality fruit.

Plus, baking with in-season strawberries means you’re not relying on imported or frozen produce. The flavor is at its best, and your cake will taste like it came straight from a professional bakery.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Strawberry Basil Lemonade Cocktail to pair with this cake on warm days.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients Breakdown for the Perfect Strawberry Cake

List of ingredients with fresh vs. frozen strawberry notes

When it comes to baking a Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling, quality ingredients make all the difference. Below is a breakdown of the essential elements for both the cake and the filling:

🧁 For the Cake Batter:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup strawberry puree (made from fresh berries)
• Optional: pink gel food coloring for brightness

🍓 For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling will always deliver the best flavor. However, in a pinch, you can substitute frozen strawberries (thawed and drained), though they may result in slightly more moisture and a less vibrant texture.

Ingredient	Use in Cake	Use in Filling	Fresh Preferred?	Notes
All-purpose flour	✅	❌	–	Sift before using
Unsalted butter	✅	❌	–	Room temp works best
Fresh strawberries	✅	✅	✅	Rinse, hull & puree/chop
Granulated sugar	✅	✅	–	Adds moisture and caramelization
Lemon juice	❌	✅	✅	Balances sweetness
Cornstarch	❌	✅	–	Helps thicken filling
Milk	✅	❌	✅	Whole milk = richer texture

Choosing the right flour, sugar, and dairy

Using all-purpose flour gives the cake structure while still being tender. Cake flour can be used for a finer crumb, but all-purpose is more widely available and easy to work with.

When it comes to sugar, stick with white granulated sugar for clean, consistent sweetness that enhances the strawberry flavor rather than overpowering it. Avoid brown sugar, which can muddy the flavor and color.

Use whole milk for its fat content, which adds moisture and softness to the cake layers. Skim or plant-based milks may work, but could change the crumb and richness.

Substitutions and allergy-friendly swaps

Here are some options if you’re accommodating dietary needs:

Regular Ingredient	Substitute Option	Notes
Butter	Vegan butter or coconut oil	Slight flavor shift
Milk	Oat milk or almond milk	Choose unsweetened
Eggs	Flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water)	Slightly denser cake
All-purpose flour	Gluten-free blend (1:1 ratio)	Use xanthan gum if needed
Sugar	Coconut sugar or erythritol	May darken cake color

Want to give it a healthier spin? Try swapping out a third of the flour for almond flour or adding Greek yogurt for protein and moisture.

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Cake Step-by-Step

Baking a Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is a fun and rewarding process, and with each step, you get closer to a delightful treat. Here’s a simple breakdown of the entire cake-making process, so you’ll know exactly how to achieve that soft, fluffy texture with bursts of strawberry flavor in every bite.

Prepare the Strawberry Puree

The first thing you need to do is create the strawberry puree that will infuse the cake with its signature fruity flavor. Fresh strawberries are ideal here, as they bring in the best natural sweetness.

1. Rinse and hull 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries.
2. Place the strawberries into a blender or food processor and pulse until you have a smooth puree.
3. Measure out ½ cup of strawberry puree for the cake. The rest can be set aside for the filling or topping.

Pro Tip: You can adjust the consistency of the puree by adding a tiny splash of water if needed. Avoid adding sugar to the puree — this is best done when making the filling.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

Now that your puree is ready, move on to the dry ingredients.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.
2. Set the bowl aside for now. These dry ingredients will provide the structure for the cake, allowing it to rise beautifully while keeping the crumb tender.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

The next step is to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a soft, airy cake.

1. In a large bowl, beat ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened) and 1 ¾ cups sugar using an electric mixer. Start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. Beat for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step adds air to the batter, helping it rise.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have an electric mixer, use a whisk and a little elbow grease to achieve the same effect!

Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Now that the butter and sugar are fluffy, it’s time to incorporate the eggs. Add them one at a time, making sure each egg is fully blended before adding the next.

1. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract.
2. Beat until well combined.

Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Now it’s time to bring all your ingredients together.

1. Slowly add about 1/3 of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
2. Pour in ½ cup of whole milk and mix until incorporated.
3. Repeat the process, alternating between the dry ingredients and the milk, until everything is well combined.

Incorporate the Strawberry Puree

Once your cake batter is smooth and well-mixed, it’s time to add the fresh strawberry puree.

1. Gently fold in the ½ cup of strawberry puree.
2. If you want an even pinker cake, this is where you can add a drop of pink gel food coloring. However, this is optional — the natural color of the strawberries will shine through beautifully.

Pro Tip: Don’t overmix after adding the puree. Folding gently ensures the batter remains light and airy.

Bake the Cake

It’s time to bring your cake to life in the oven.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
3. Pour the prepared batter evenly into the pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re making cupcakes, they’ll need about 20-25 minutes.

Pro Tip: If the cakes start browning too quickly, cover them with foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Cool and Prepare for Assembly

Once your cakes are baked to perfection, let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial, as hot cakes are delicate and can break apart.

Creating the Fresh Strawberry Filling Like a Pro

The strawberry filling is the heart and soul of this cake. It’s what brings that luscious, fruity sweetness to every bite, perfectly complementing the moist layers of the cake. A well-made filling can make or break the cake, so here’s how to nail it.

Choose the Right Strawberries

Just like for the cake, fresh strawberries will give you the best flavor for the filling. Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries to get the most out of the natural sweetness. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them completely to avoid too much liquid in the filling.

Cook the Filling

The key to a perfect strawberry filling is balancing the sweetness and tartness while achieving the ideal texture. Here’s how to do it:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries and ½ cup of sugar. Stir gently to coat the strawberries with sugar, then bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the strawberries begin to break down and release their juices. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
3. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the filling.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture into the simmering strawberry juice. Stir constantly to avoid clumps and to make sure the filling thickens to a jam-like consistency.
5. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
6. Add 1 tbsp of lemon juice to enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.

Let the Filling Cool

Once the filling has reached the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool completely before using it in the cake. This cooling process is crucial — if you use the filling too hot, it can melt into the cake layers and make the cake soggy.

Pro Tip: To speed up the cooling process, you can transfer the filling into a shallow dish and refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes.

How to Layer the Cake

Now that your fresh strawberry filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the cake! Here’s how to layer it properly:

1. Once your cake layers have cooled completely, use a serrated knife to level off the tops of each layer, creating a flat, even surface.
2. Spread a generous amount of strawberry filling onto the top of the first cake layer, being sure to leave a border around the edge to avoid spillage.
3. Place the second layer on top and gently press down to secure it.
4. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can spread some filling between the cake layers and on top for a more vibrant, fruity experience.

Pro Tip: If you’re using the filling as a frosting on top of the cake as well, it works best when you allow it to set in the fridge for an hour to firm up.

Optional Add-ins for Your Strawberry Filling

While fresh strawberries and sugar are the basics, you can elevate the flavor profile of your strawberry filling with these optional additions:

• Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract will enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries and provide depth to the flavor.
• Mint: Finely chopped fresh mint leaves add a refreshing twist to the filling.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar brings out the tartness of the strawberries and gives the filling a sophisticated flavor, perfect for grown-up desserts.
• Butter: A tablespoon of unsalted butter at the end of cooking will give the filling a silky, rich finish.

These additions are completely optional but will give your filling a unique, gourmet edge.

Assembling the Cake for Flavor and Beauty

Now that your cake layers and strawberry filling are ready, it’s time to assemble your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling into a delicious masterpiece. The assembly process is where you really get to showcase your creation. Here’s how to layer, frost, and present your cake for the perfect finish.

Level the Cake Layers

Before you begin assembling, it’s crucial to ensure that each layer of cake is level. This helps the layers sit evenly and stack beautifully, ensuring a professional, tidy look.

1. Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of both cake layers. If you want to get fancy, use a cake leveler to achieve perfectly even layers.
2. Discard the excess cake (or snack on it if you’re feeling indulgent), leaving just the flat, even layers.

Pro Tip: Use a toothpick to measure the thickness of the layers to ensure consistency. You can mark the toothpick’s height and use it as a guide when leveling.

Add the Strawberry Filling Between Layers

Once your cake layers are level, you can begin layering the strawberry filling.

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving platter or cake board.
2. Spread a generous layer of your fresh strawberry filling over the top of the cake, using a spatula to smooth it evenly. Leave a slight border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling over once the second layer is placed.
3. Place the second cake layer gently on top of the first, making sure it aligns evenly.

Pro Tip: If you want extra strawberry flavor, you can spoon some fresh strawberry slices into the filling layer as well, adding both texture and a pop of fresh fruit!

Frost the Cake (Optional)

For this cake, you can go with a simple frosting or take it up a notch with a creamy, dreamy layer of frosting on top. Here’s how to frost it beautifully:

1. Whipped Cream Frosting: For a light and airy finish, go with freshly whipped cream. Add 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract to a chilled bowl. Beat until stiff peaks form.
2. Buttercream Frosting: For a richer option, you can use buttercream. Beat 1 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy, then add 3-4 cups powdered sugar and 2 tbsp heavy cream. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Pro Tip: To prevent the filling from seeping into the frosting, you can apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting over the entire cake first. Chill it for 30 minutes before adding the final frosting layer.

Decorate the Cake

Once your cake is frosted, it’s time to decorate! The fresh strawberry filling already adds a pop of color, but you can go even further with these easy decoration ideas:

1. Fresh Strawberries: Place halved fresh strawberries around the top edge of the cake. You can even add a few whole strawberries in the center.
2. Whipped Cream Piping: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe little rosettes around the top of the cake for an elegant touch.
3. Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of green that complements the red strawberries.

Pro Tip: If you want a more rustic look, leave the frosting slightly uneven and let the fresh strawberry filling peek through the edges.

Let It Set

Once your cake is assembled and decorated, it’s important to let it set for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures that the filling and frosting don’t slide around when serving.

Pro Tip: If you made your cake ahead of time, store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Just let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving so it’s easier to cut.

Frosting Ideas That Pair Well with Strawberry Cake

The frosting is the finishing touch that can elevate your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling to the next level. Whether you prefer a light and fluffy whipped cream or a creamy, rich buttercream, there are plenty of options to complement the fresh strawberry flavor. Let’s break down the best frosting ideas for your cake!

1. Classic Whipped Cream Frosting

For a light and airy touch that lets the fresh fruit flavor shine, whipped cream frosting is the way to go. It’s simple, easy to make, and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries.

How to Make Whipped Cream Frosting:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
   • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
2. Instructions:
   • Place the heavy whipping cream in a chilled mixing bowl.
   • Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
   • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread or pipe over the cake.

Pro Tip: For an extra creamy texture, use cold cream and chilled mixing equipment (mixer bowl and beaters). This helps the whipped cream reach stiff peaks more quickly.

2. Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

For a more decadent and tangy twist, strawberry cream cheese frosting is an excellent option. The tanginess of cream cheese balances the sweetness of the strawberry filling, creating a rich yet refreshing flavor profile.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Ingredients:
   • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
   • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
   • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
   • ½ cup strawberry puree (strained to remove seeds)
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
2. Instructions:
   • Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
   • Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth.

Pro Tip: Strain the strawberry puree before using it in the frosting to avoid any unwanted seeds or pulp.

3. Classic Buttercream Frosting

If you’re after something richer and more traditional, classic buttercream frosting is always a winner. It’s creamy, sweet, and holds up well for piping intricate designs. It’s the ideal choice if you want a thick, smooth layer of frosting that won’t overwhelm the strawberry flavors.

How to Make Classic Buttercream Frosting:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
   • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
   • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
2. Instructions:
   • Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
   • Add the heavy cream or milk, 1 tbsp at a time, to adjust the consistency to your liking.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.

Pro Tip: If you like a fluffier buttercream, try adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, or use malted milk powder for a unique flavor.

4. Vegan Frosting (Dairy-Free)

For those who are vegan or dairy-free, there’s no need to miss out on a creamy frosting. Vegan frosting can be just as delicious and rich without using any dairy products.

How to Make Vegan Buttercream Frosting:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 cup dairy-free butter (e.g., Earth Balance)
   • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
   • 1-2 tbsp almond milk or oat milk
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
2. Instructions:
   • Beat the dairy-free butter until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
   • Add almond milk or oat milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired frosting consistency.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.

Pro Tip: Be sure to choose a good-quality dairy-free butter for the best texture and flavor. Some vegan butters can be a bit too soft, which can affect the consistency of your frosting.

5. Lemon Buttercream Frosting

If you want a refreshing twist to balance out the sweetness of the strawberries, lemon buttercream frosting is an excellent choice. The citrusy zing cuts through the richness of the cake and creates a light, fresh finish.

How to Make Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
   • 3-4 cups powdered sugar
   • Zest of 1 lemon
   • 2-3 tbsp lemon juice
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
2. Instructions:
   • Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
   • Add the lemon zest and lemon juice and mix until smooth.
   • Add the vanilla extract and beat until fluffy.

Pro Tip: For extra lemon flavor, you can even add a little lemon extract, which gives a more concentrated citrus flavor.

Choosing the Right Frosting for Your Cake

1. Depending on the occasion or your personal preference, you can choose the frosting that best complements your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling. Here are some suggestions:

Whipped Cream Frosting: Perfect for a light, airy dessert that focuses on the natural strawberry flavor. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Rich and tangy, perfect for a more decadent dessert or if you’re making a layer cake that’s meant to stand out.

Classic Buttercream Frosting: Perfect if you love traditional, rich frosting that holds its shape and is ideal for piping designs.

Vegan Frosting: Great for vegan or dairy-free guests, without compromising on taste or texture.

Lemon Buttercream: A zesty twist for those who love a citrus flavor alongside their strawberries. Perfect for brunches or casual get-togethers.

Storage, Serving, and Make-Ahead Tips

The key to enjoying your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is knowing how to store, serve, and prepare it ahead of time. These tips will ensure your cake stays fresh, delicious, and visually appealing from the first slice to the last.

How to Store Your Fresh Strawberry Cake

Storing your cake properly is essential to keeping it moist, fresh, and flavorful. Since this cake has fresh fruit in the filling and frosting, it needs special attention.

1. At Room Temperature:
   If you plan to serve the cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. However, make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out. A cake dome or an airtight container works best.
2. In the Refrigerator:
   If you need to store the cake for longer than 2 days, it’s best to refrigerate it. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing odors in the fridge.
3. For Layered Cakes:
   If your cake has multiple layers and frosting, keep it in the fridge to help it hold its shape. The strawberry filling will stay fresh longer in the cool temperature.

Pro Tip: Before serving, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will bring out the full flavor and make the frosting and filling softer.

Freezing Your Strawberry Cake

Want to make your cake ahead of time or preserve leftovers? Freezing is a great option for longer-term storage. Here’s how to do it:

1. Freeze Unfrosted Cake Layers:
   If you plan on freezing the cake, it’s best to freeze the unfrosted layers. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw at room temperature before frosting.
2. Freeze Frosted Cake:
   If the cake is already frosted, you can still freeze it. Place the entire cake (frosted) in the freezer for about 1-2 hours to set the frosting. Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Be sure to label it with the date. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Pro Tip: To prevent the frosting from sticking to the wrapping, place parchment paper between the frosting and the plastic wrap or foil.

Serving the Fresh Strawberry Cake

Now that your cake is stored properly, it’s time to serve it! Here’s how to ensure your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is presented beautifully:

1. Slicing:
   For clean, neat slices, use a serrated knife to cut through the cake. Make sure the knife is clean between each cut to avoid any messy crumbs.
   If the frosting is too thick, warm the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting to get a smoother slice.
2. Plate Presentation:
   You can serve the cake on a beautiful cake stand or a simple platter. Add extra fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves around the edges for a pop of color.
   If you have extra whipped cream frosting, pipe some rosettes on the edges for a more elegant presentation.

Pro Tip: For an elegant twist, dust the top of the cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. This makes the strawberries look even more vibrant.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling can be made ahead of time for convenience. Here’s how you can prep it for future enjoyment:

1. Cake Layers:
   You can bake the cake layers 1-2 days ahead of time. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.
2. Strawberry Filling:
   The strawberry filling can be made 1-2 days ahead as well. Once it has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just before using it, give it a quick stir to bring it back to life.
3. Frosting:
   Frosting can be made in advance too. Store any leftover frosting in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. When ready to use, bring it to room temperature and give it a quick re-whip before frosting your cake.

Pro Tip: For the freshest flavor, try to make the cake the day before serving, as the flavors will have time to meld together overnight.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pairing your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling with other delicious treats can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream complements the fruity flavors of the cake perfectly.
• Beverages: Serve with a glass of sparkling lemonade, iced tea, or freshly brewed coffee for a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the cake, especially if you use other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches.

Pro Tip: For a special occasion, consider topping the cake with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a decadent touch.

Variations and Creative Twists to Try

While the Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is already delicious on its own, there are so many ways you can customize it and add your own unique twist. Whether you want to switch up the flavor profile, make mini cakes, or explore different textures, these creative variations will help you take your cake to the next level.

1. Turn it into Cupcakes

If you love a more portable, individual-sized dessert, consider turning your strawberry cake into cupcakes. This works particularly well for parties, picnics, or events where serving individual portions is easier.

How to Make Cupcakes:

1. Follow the same cake batter recipe, but instead of pouring the batter into cake pans, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. After they cool, top with fresh strawberry filling and your choice of frosting.

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can inject some of the fresh strawberry filling directly into the center of each cupcake before frosting.

2. Create a Strawberry Shortcake Cake

If you love the classic strawberry shortcake but want something a little more decadent, you can transform this strawberry cake into a strawberry shortcake cake. By simply adding layers of whipped cream and fresh strawberries, you’ll have a dessert that’s bursting with freshness.

How to Make a Strawberry Shortcake Cake:

1. Once your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is assembled, split the layers in half, creating 4 layers instead of 2.
2. Add a generous amount of whipped cream or strawberry cream cheese frosting between each layer.
3. After frosting, top with fresh, sliced strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pro Tip: For extra flair, drizzle strawberry syrup or berry compote over the top for a burst of added sweetness.https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/strawberry-cake/

3. Make a Gluten-Free Version

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily make a gluten-free version of this cake. The flavor and texture will still be wonderful, thanks to the right flour blend and baking adjustments.

How to Make a Gluten-Free Strawberry Cake:

1. Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for texture.
2. If needed, replace the milk with a dairy-free option, like almond milk or oat milk.
3. Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) if you want a fully vegan cake.

Pro Tip: To keep the cake moist and fluffy, add extra almond flour or coconut flour to improve texture.

4. Add Lemon or Orange Zest for a Citrus Twist

For a fun, citrusy twist, incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the cake batter or filling. The tartness will balance the sweetness of the strawberries, making every bite refreshing.

How to Add Citrus Flavor:

1. Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest or orange zest to the cake batter when mixing the dry ingredients.
2. Add a bit of citrus zest to the strawberry filling or mix it with the frosting to give it a light, zesty finish.
3. For an even bolder flavor, drizzle citrus glaze over the cake after frosting.

Pro Tip: A light lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can provide the perfect finishing touch.

5. Strawberry and Chocolate Fusion

For chocolate lovers, you can add a bit of richness and indulgence to your strawberry cake by incorporating chocolate into the layers. Whether it’s a drizzle of chocolate ganache, chunks of chocolate chips, or a chocolate frosting, this combination is a crowd-pleaser.

How to Add Chocolate:

1. Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the cake batter for a bit of richness in each bite.
2. Pour chocolate ganache over the top of the frosted cake for a beautiful, glossy finish.
3. Create a chocolate-strawberry buttercream frosting by mixing in cocoa powder to the buttercream.

Pro Tip: If you’re adding chocolate ganache, allow it to cool to room temperature before drizzling it over the cake so it doesn’t melt the frosting.

6. Make it into a Sheet Cake

If you prefer a more casual, easy-to-serve version of this cake, try making it into a sheet cake. It’s simpler to make and serve, especially for larger gatherings.

How to Make a Sheet Cake:

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and pour the batter in, spreading it out evenly.
2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Once cooled, top with strawberry filling, frosting, and fresh strawberry slices.

Pro Tip: Sheet cakes are great for parties because they’re easy to slice into squares and serve.

Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling: Nutrition and FAQ

Now that we’ve covered everything from baking to frosting and creative variations, let’s take a look at the nutrition of your cake and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this delicious treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

While this Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling is a decadent treat, it’s important to consider the nutritional value if you’re watching your diet. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories	350-400 kcal
Total Fat	18-22 g
Saturated Fat	10-12 g
Cholesterol	60-80 mg
Sodium	150-200 mg
Total Carbohydrates	45-50 g
Dietary Fiber	2-3 g
Sugars	35-40 g
Protein	3-4 g
Vitamin A	6-8% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C	25-30% of the DV
Calcium	2-4% of the DV
Iron	4-6% of the DV

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can make a few substitutions. For example, opt for light whipped cream instead of full-fat frosting or try a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

FAQs:

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about making and serving your Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling.

PAA1: How do I make strawberry cake filling from scratch?

To make the strawberry filling, start by chopping fresh strawberries and cooking them with sugar and lemon juice. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the filling, and let it cool before adding it to your cake. You can make the filling up to 1-2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

PAA2: Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture. Fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, but frozen will still work in a pinch.

PAA3: How to keep strawberries from making the cake soggy?

To avoid a soggy cake, ensure the strawberry filling is thickened properly using cornstarch and make sure it’s cooled completely before adding it to the cake. Additionally, it helps to use a crumb coat of frosting to seal in the layers and prevent moisture from seeping into the cake

PAA4: What’s the best frosting for strawberry cake?

The best frosting for strawberry cake depends on your preference. Whipped cream frosting is light and refreshing, while strawberry cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy flavor. If you prefer something richer, classic buttercream is always a solid choice.

PAA5: How long does strawberry cake last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, strawberry cake can last in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days. The fresh fruit in the filling and frosting makes the cake best when enjoyed within the first few days, but it will stay fresh for several days when properly stored.

PAA6: Can I freeze this strawberry cake?

Yes, you can freeze strawberry cake. If freezing the entire cake, ensure it’s properly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. It can last in the freezer for 2-3 months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving. If you want to freeze individual slices, you can do so as well — just wrap them tightly.

Conclusion

Now you have everything you need to create the Fresh Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Filling that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because it’s strawberry season, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and beauty.

From selecting the right ingredients to adding creative twists and serving it at the right temperature, every step ensures that your cake will be a success. And with our make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy this delicious treat over several days without worrying about it going bad.

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