Ivy's Exquisite Culinary Creations

Ingredients

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
1 cup of sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup of whole milk
2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries
1 cup of powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until the batter is smooth.
Fold in the chopped strawberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle, but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - A medium-sized bowl for combining ingredients.
Whisk - Used for mixing the batter and ensuring it is smooth.
Spatula - A tool for scraping the sides of the bowl and smoothing the cake batter.
9-inch cake pan - A round pan for baking the strawberry cake.
Toothpick - Used to test if the cake is done by inserting into the center.
Wire rack - A rack for cooling the cake after baking.
Measuring cups and spoons - Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients.

Recipe variations

Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Use almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a hint of citrus flavor.
Instead of strawberries, try using other fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
For a chocolate twist, mix in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the batter.
Make it a layered cake by baking two cakes and spreading a layer of whipped cream or frosting between them.
Experiment with different flavors of extract, such as almond, coconut, or strawberry, to enhance the taste.
Create a streusel topping by combining flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon, and sprinkle it over the batter before baking.
For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with margarine or coconut oil, and use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk.

Recipe overview

This delightful Strawberry Cake recipe is a treat for berry lovers! This easy-to-make dessert features a moist, flavorful cake studded with fresh strawberries and topped with a sweet glaze. With its burst of fruit flavor and delicate sweetness, it's the perfect centerpiece for any summertime gathering. Expect to spend around 15 minutes preparing the batter, and another 25-30 minutes for baking. As the cake cools, you'll whip up a simple glaze to drizzle on top. Whether you serve it at a casual brunch or as an after dinner dessert, this strawberry cake is sure to be a hit.

Common questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. However, make sure to thaw and drain them before chopping and adding to the batter.
Can I substitute a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture, or with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Adjustments may be needed for the amount of liquid used in the recipe.
Can I use a different size of cake pan?
This recipe is specifically formulated for a 9-inch cake pan. Using a different size may affect baking time and the overall outcome of the cake. It is recommended to use the specified size for best results.
How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it for longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - Use mixing bowls to combine ingredients and mix the cake batter.
Whisk - A whisk is useful for beating eggs and incorporating air into the batter.
Spatula - A spatula is handy for scraping the sides of the bowl and smoothing the cake batter.
9-inch cake pan - Use a 9-inch cake pan to bake the strawberry cake.
Toothpick - Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake to check if it is fully cooked. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Wire rack - Transfer the baked cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Spoon or whisk for glaze - Use a spoon or whisk to mix the powdered sugar and milk/cream together for the glaze.
Drizzling tool - You can use a small spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the glaze over the cake.

Origin stories

This delightfully sweet treat hails from the heartland of America where seasonal fruit-based desserts are a time-honored tradition. The incorporation of strawberries, a fruit that thrives in the temperate areas of the United States, makes this cake a springtime favorite, often served at gatherings and celebrations when the strawberry fields are in full bloom. The simplicity of the ingredients reflects the charm and straightforwardness of country cooking. Over the years, this cake has evolved from simple farmstead kitchens to occupy a beloved place in gourmet bakeries and dessert menus across the country. It's more than just a dessert, it's a slice of American gastronomical history and culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.