Easy Strawberry Cake

This Easy Strawberry Cake is a soft, moist, and fruity dessert that showcases fresh strawberries in every bite. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a casual treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with real strawberries for natural flavor
• Simple ingredients and minimal prep time
• Versatile enough for sheet or layer cakes
• Perfect for spring and summer celebrations

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh or frozen strawberries (chopped)
• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Eggs
• Plain yogurt or sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest and juice (optional)
• Frosting or topping options: cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or powdered sugar

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch or 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, yogurt or sour cream, vanilla, and lemon zest/juice.
3. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped strawberries, reserving a few for topping.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on pan size, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool slightly. Top with frosting, whipped cream, or powdered sugar. Add fresh strawberries if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 10–12
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25–35 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy lift
• Mix in blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries
• Make a layer cake and frost with strawberry cream cheese frosting
• Use strawberry jam in the frosting for extra flavor

storage/reheating

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days if frosted
• Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 1 month, thaw before serving
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this a layer cake?

Absolutely. Divide the batter into two round pans and adjust the baking time.

What frosting goes best with strawberry cake?

Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream both pair wonderfully with the fruity flavor.

How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking?

Coat chopped strawberries lightly in flour before folding into the batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour.

Do I need to use yogurt or sour cream?

Either works to add moisture and tang—choose based on your flavor preference.

Can I add more fruit?

Yes, adding raspberries or blueberries works well with the strawberries.

Is the lemon necessary?

No, but it brightens the flavor and enhances the strawberries.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Yes, add strawberries and a few fresh ingredients to a white or vanilla cake mix as a shortcut.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 18–22 minutes.

Conclusion

Easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines fresh berries and a soft crumb with minimal effort. Whether dressed up with frosting or served simply, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll make again and again.

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