Easy Strawberry Cake – Simple Homemade Recipe

easy-strawberry-cake-recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably special about a dessert that brings joy without the fuss. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving a sweet escape, this Easy Strawberry Cake delivers every time. With its tender crumb and bursts of fresh strawberry flavor, it’s the kind of treat that feels like a hug in every bite. Plus, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels—no fancy techniques required. If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a showstopper without the stress, this recipe is your answer.

Easy Strawberry Cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Unlike dense, overly sweet desserts, this cake strikes the perfect balance with its light texture and natural fruitiness. Fresh strawberries fold into the batter, creating pockets of juicy goodness, while a hint of vanilla ties everything together. What makes it truly stand out is its versatility. Serve it as an afternoon pick-me-up, a birthday centerpiece, or even a cozy weekend treat. At brekcakes.com, we believe baking should be joyful, not intimidating. That’s why this recipe aligns perfectly with our mission to share approachable, crowd-pleasing dishes. For more inspiration, check out our Classic Vanilla Cupcakes or explore our guide to Baking with Fresh Fruit.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Easy Strawberry Cake holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summers at my grandma’s house. She always had a way of turning humble ingredients into something magical, and this cake captures that spirit. Every time I bake it, the aroma fills my kitchen with nostalgia. But what I love most is how it brings people together. Whether it’s my kids sneaking slices before dinner or friends asking for the recipe, this cake creates moments worth savoring. It’s more than just dessert—it’s a little piece of joy I get to share with you.

Health and Nutrition

Why it’s good for your body

Easy Strawberry Cake packs a surprising nutritional punch while satisfying your sweet tooth. First, fresh strawberries bring a burst of antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support heart health. Additionally, these juicy berries deliver vitamin C, boosting your immune system and promoting glowing skin. Since strawberries naturally sweeten the cake, you can often reduce added sugars without sacrificing flavor.

Moreover, Easy Strawberry Cake can include wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour or almond flour for extra fiber and protein. Fiber keeps digestion smooth, while protein helps maintain energy levels. If you opt for Greek yogurt in the batter, you’ll also get a dose of probiotics for gut health. Even better, strawberries contain manganese, a mineral that aids metabolism and bone strength.

Finally, Easy Strawberry Cake offers a lighter alternative to heavy desserts. Because it relies on fruit for moisture, you can often cut back on butter or oil. Whether you enjoy a slice as an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner treat, you’re choosing a dessert that nourishes as much as it delights.

How it fits in a healthy lifestyle

Easy Strawberry Cake fits seamlessly into balanced eating habits. For gluten-free diets, simply swap regular flour for a blend like almond or oat flour. If you’re watching your sugar intake, try natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This cake also pairs well with protein-rich toppings, such as a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts, making it a smarter dessert choice.

For those focused on heart health, the strawberries in Easy Strawberry Cake provide potassium and flavonoids, which support blood pressure and circulation. If you’re meal prepping, bake a batch and freeze individual slices for portion-controlled treats. Craving more healthy dessert ideas? Explore our gluten-free desserts or discover how to swap sugar in baking for even lighter options. With simple tweaks, this cake becomes a guilt-free part of your routine.

Print

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Easy Strawberry Cake


  • Author:
    Chef Mia


Description

A simple and delicious strawberry cake that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients


Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped


Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
  4. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in chopped strawberries.
  5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.


Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.



How to Prepare This Dish

Steps and time-saving tips

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. Meanwhile, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt—in a large bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly before adding melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry mixtures gently, stirring just until the batter comes together. Overmixing can make the Easy Strawberry Cake dense, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour. Fold in diced fresh strawberries, reserving a handful for garnish. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. For a time-saving twist, use store-bought whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar instead of frosting. If you prefer a richer finish, drizzle with homemade glaze while the cake is still warm.

and-learned-from">Mistakes I’ve made and learned from

Early on, I learned the hard way that overloading the batter with strawberries makes the Easy Strawberry Cake soggy. Now, I stick to a measured cup and pat the diced berries dry before folding them in. Another blunder? Pulling the cake out too soon because the top looked golden. A toothpick test is non-negotiable—trust me, a gooey center ruins the texture. If you’re new to baking, check out my guide on common cake mistakes to avoid these pitfalls. Also, if your strawberries aren’t sweet enough, a sprinkle of sugar before adding them helps. For more tips on working with fresh fruit, my baking with berries post breaks it down step by step.

Cultural Connection and Variations

Where this recipe comes from

Easy Strawberry Cake carries the sweet nostalgia of summer picnics and family gatherings. Many trace its roots to Southern U.S. kitchens, where bakers often paired fresh strawberries with simple, buttery cakes. However, variations pop up worldwide. In Japan, for example, they layer strawberries with light sponge cake and whipped cream for a delicate dessert called strawberry shortcake. Meanwhile, in Italy, you might find a rustic crostata filled with strawberry jam.

In my own family, Easy

Strawberry Cake was a rite of passage. My grandmother taught me to fold crushed berries into the batter for extra moisture and flavor. Some cooks prefer topping the cake with fresh slices or a glossy glaze. No matter the method, the goal stays the same: celebrate strawberries at their peak. Whether you grew up picking berries at a farm or grabbing them from the store, this cake turns humble ingredients into something special.

How it fits in today’s cooking

Today, Easy Strawberry Cake still shines as a versatile crowd-pleaser. Busy bakers love it because it works for birthdays, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight treat. Many now tweak the recipe with gluten-free flour or dairy substitutes, proving it adapts to modern diets. For a summer twist, try pairing it with homemade lemonade—the tartness balances the cake’s sweetness perfectly.

Seasonal cooking also keeps this dessert relevant. When strawberries flood farmers’ markets, bakers whip up Easy Strawberry Cake to showcase their freshness. Others freeze slices for a taste of summer all year. If you need inspiration, check out our seasonal desserts guide for more ways to highlight fruit. No matter how you serve it, this cake bridges tradition and today’s kitchen with every bite.

>Taste and Texture

What makes it delicious

Easy Strawberry Cake bursts with juicy, sun-ripened strawberry flavor in every bite. The tender crumb melts in your mouth, while pockets of fresh strawberries add a soft, jammy texture. A hint of vanilla enhances the natural sweetness, creating a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes. Meanwhile, the golden-brown edges offer a subtle crispness, contrasting the cake’s fluffy interior. Whether served warm or chilled, Easy Strawberry Cake delivers a bright, fruity delight that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Boosting the flavor

For an extra flavor boost, fold in a handful of lemon zest to brighten the strawberries or drizzle the finished cake with a vanilla glaze for added richness. If you love texture, sprinkle toasted almond slices on top for a nutty crunch. Another trick? Swap half the sugar with honey to deepen the sweetness and keep the cake moist. Experiment with these tweaks to make Easy Strawberry Cake even more irresistible.

Tips for Success

Best practices for results

Always use room-temperature ingredients for your Easy Strawberry Cake, as they blend more smoothly and create a lighter texture. Meanwhile, gently fold the strawberries into the batter to prevent crushing them, which can lead to uneven baking. Additionally, check the cake early with a toothpick since oven temperatures vary, and you want to avoid overbaking. For extra flavor, toss the strawberries in a bit of flour before adding them to keep them from sinking.

Mistakes to avoid

Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make your Easy Strawberry Cake dense instead of fluffy. Instead, mix just until the ingredients combine. Also, don’t skip greasing the pan properly, or the cake might stick. For more on avoiding baking mishaps, check out our guide on common baking mistakes. Finally, resist opening the oven door too often, as temperature fluctuations can cause uneven rising. If you’re unsure about doneness, learn how to test cakes correctly with our testing cake doneness tips.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

How to serve this dish

For a stunning presentation, slice Easy Strawberry Cake into generous wedges and arrange them on a pastel-colored plate. Top each piece with fresh strawberry slices and a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, serve it family-style on a cake stand for brunch gatherings or summer picnics. To make it extra special, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply craving a sweet treat, Easy Strawberry Cake shines as the centerpiece of any occasion.

h-it">What goes well with it

Pair Easy Strawberry Cake with a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea to balance its sweetness. For a cozy twist, try it with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, which highlights the fruity notes. If you’re serving it as part of a dessert spread, consider adding our Vanilla Bean Cheesecake or Classic Chocolate Mousse for variety. Each pairing enhances the cake’s vibrant flavor while keeping the menu light and satisfying.

What are the easiest ingredients for a strawberry cake?

An Easy Strawberry Cake typically requires simple ingredients like fresh strawberries, all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and baking powder. You can also use strawberry puree or jam for extra flavor without complicated steps. This keeps the recipe accessible for beginners.

rank-math-faq-item"> Can I use frozen strawberries for an Easy Strawberry Cake?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work well for an Easy Strawberry Cake—just thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. Chop or puree them before adding to the batter for even distribution. Fresh or frozen, the cake will taste delicious.

How do I keep my strawberry cake from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy Easy Strawberry Cake, lightly coat strawberry pieces in flour before folding them into the batter. Also, avoid overmixing and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Proper cooling before slicing helps too.

What frosting pairs best with strawberry cake?

Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream complements an Easy Strawberry Cake perfectly, balancing sweetness with a tangy touch. For a lighter option, try a vanilla glaze. Both options highlight the cake’s fresh strawberry flavor.

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