Moist Baked Strawberry Cake with Fresh Cream: A Sweet Slice of Summer

Moist Baked Strawberry Cake with Fresh Cream: A Sweet Slice of Summer

There’s something truly special about a homemade strawberry cake that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This Moist Baked Strawberry Cake with Fresh Cream is a luscious treat combining tender, fluffy cake infused with fresh strawberries and topped with smooth, whipped cream. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving something sweet, this cake delivers a perfect balance of lightness and indulgence.

Why This Cake Shines

This strawberry cake isn’t just a dessert — it’s an experience. The moist crumb absorbs the natural sweetness and slight tartness of fresh strawberries, while the creamy topping adds richness without overpowering the delicate fruit flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as delightful as it tastes, making it ideal for any special occasion or an everyday treat.

Simple Ingredients, Heavenly Flavor

You don’t need fancy ingredients to bake a cake that feels luxurious. This recipe uses fresh strawberries, basic pantry staples, and real cream to create a dessert that’s both simple and spectacular. The natural fruit flavor keeps it refreshing, while the whipped cream adds a soft, silky finish.

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream)

How to Make It

Baking this moist strawberry cake is straightforward and immensely rewarding. Here’s how to make this beautiful dessert from scratch:

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing gently. Fold in chopped strawberries.
  2. Bake the Cake
    Pour batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
  3. Make the Fresh Cream Topping
    In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  4. Assemble the Cake
    Spread whipped cream generously over the cooled cake. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

Healthier Alternatives

Want to make this strawberry cake a bit lighter or adapt it for special diets? Here are some easy swaps and additions:

  • Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Butter
    Reduces fat while keeping moistness.
  • Swap White Sugar for Coconut Sugar or Honey
    For a natural sweetness boost.
  • Replace Buttermilk with Almond Milk and Lemon Juice
    For a dairy-free option.
  • Use Coconut Cream Instead of Heavy Cream
    For a vegan-friendly topping.
  • Add Ground Flaxseed or Chia Seeds
    Boost fiber and omega-3s without changing texture.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cake is versatile and pairs well with many accompaniments to enhance your dessert experience:

  • Serve with Fresh Berries
    Add blueberries, raspberries, or sliced kiwi for extra color and flavor.
  • Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce or Chocolate Ganache
    For an indulgent touch.
  • Pair with a Cup of Herbal Tea or Freshly Brewed Coffee
    Perfect for afternoon treats or brunch.
  • Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
    Turn it into a decadent dessert.
  • Top with Mint Leaves or Edible Flowers
    For a beautiful presentation.

Storing Tips

Planning to enjoy your strawberry cake over a few days? Follow these tips to keep it fresh and delicious:

  • Store Covered in the Refrigerator
    Keeps the whipped cream fresh and the cake moist.
  • Use an Airtight Container or Cake Dome
    Prevents the cake from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
  • Consume Within 3 Days
    For optimal freshness and flavor.
  • Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving
    Enhances the cake’s softness and flavor.
  • Avoid Freezing if Possible
    The whipped cream may lose texture when thawed.

Kid-Friendly Tips

Making this cake family-friendly is easy with a few small adjustments:

  • Use Less Sugar in Cake and Cream
    Keep sweetness mild for younger palates.
  • Skip Alcohol or Extracts with Strong Flavor
    Stick to vanilla for a familiar taste.
  • Add Fun Sprinkles or Colorful Strawberries on Top
    Make the cake visually exciting.
  • Involve Kids in Decorating
    Let them help spread cream or arrange berries.
  • Serve Smaller Slices
    Perfect for little hands and less sugar intake.

Chef’s Special Tips

Want to take your Moist Baked Strawberry Cake to the next level? Here are some professional tips for extra flavor and flair:

  • Macreate Strawberries Before Adding
    Toss chopped strawberries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice to intensify flavor.
  • Add a Touch of Almond Extract
    Enhances the strawberry notes beautifully.
  • Use Cake Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour
    For an even lighter crumb.
  • Pipe the Whipped Cream
    For a polished, decorative look.
  • Add a Layer of Strawberry Jam Between Cake Layers
    For added sweetness and moisture.
  • Dust with Powdered Sugar or Cocoa Powder Just Before Serving
    Adds elegance and extra flavor.

Conclusion

Moist Baked Strawberry Cake with Fresh Cream is a deliciously simple way to celebrate summer’s sweetest fruit. Its tender crumb, juicy strawberries, and luscious cream topping create a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for any occasion, this cake invites you to savor the flavors of the season with every bite.

Ready to bake this sweet slice of summer? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the magic of homemade strawberry cake with fresh cream. Don’t forget to share your baking success or ask any questions—you might inspire someone else to indulge in this timeless treat too.

FAQs

The cake’s moisture comes from a combination of fresh strawberries, oil or butter, and sometimes yogurt or sour cream in the batter, which keeps the crumb soft and tender.

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cake’s texture.

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator to keep the fresh cream from spoiling. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Add the fresh cream topping just before serving to keep it light and fluffy.

This recipe typically uses regular wheat flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free. Adjust baking time as needed.

Use heavy whipping cream chilled and whip it until stiff peaks form. Adding a small amount of powdered sugar or stabilizer like gelatin helps maintain the cream’s texture longer.