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Strawberry Dream Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Strawberry Dream Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Strawberry Dream Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, fruity dessert featuring layers of strawberry-infused sponge cake paired with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or anytime you crave a luscious, fresh cake with a balanced sweetness and elegant presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • Fresh Strawberries (for puree and garnish)
  • 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 ¾ cups Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Butter (softened)
  • 3 large Eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder
  • ¼ tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Milk or Buttermilk (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup Butter (softened)
  • 3 to 4 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberry Puree: Wash and hull fresh strawberries, then puree them in a blender or food processor until smooth. This puree adds vibrant color and authentic strawberry flavor to the cake layers.
  2. Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract followed by the strawberry puree. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternating with milk or buttermilk to achieve smooth, perfect consistency.
  3. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between two or three greased and lined round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
  4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Finish by mixing in vanilla extract. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on the serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers, then cover the entire cake with frosting. Use a spatula to smooth the sides and top. Chill for about 30 minutes to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients (butter, eggs, cream cheese) for smooth mixing and perfect batter.
  • Mix batter until just combined to keep the cake tender and light.
  • Cool cake layers completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Use fresh strawberries for best flavor and color intensity.
  • Trim domed cake tops for even layers and professional look.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry cake, Cream cheese frosting, Layer cake, Gluten-free dessert, Summer cake, Berry cake