Simple Strawberry Cream Cake
Welcome to the delightful world of desserts, where simplicity meets decadence! The Simple Strawberry Cream Cake is a timeless classic that combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cream, all nestled between layers of moist, fluffy cake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this easy-to-make cake is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients Required for Simple Strawberry Cream Cake
To create this heavenly dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream
- Powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Simple Strawberry Cream Cake
Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing and flouring three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
Baking the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Making the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix.
Assembling the Cake Layers
Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream frosting on top, then arrange sliced strawberries over the frosting. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, frosting, and strawberries.
Decorating the Cake
For a finishing touch, garnish the top of the cake with whole strawberries or dust with powdered sugar. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for Making the Perfect Simple Strawberry Cream Cake
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter or the whipped cream frosting.
- For added flavor, you can brush the cake layers with a simple syrup infused with strawberry extract.
- Experiment with different cake decorations, such as chocolate shavings or edible flowers.
Variations and Customizations
- Replace the strawberries with other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries.
- Add a layer of pastry cream or lemon curd between the cake layers for extra flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Simple Strawberry Cream Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and extra fresh strawberries on the side. Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect dessert experience.
Storing and Shelf Life
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes this cake “simple”?
The simplicity of this cake lies in its straightforward ingredients and easy preparation method. There are no complicated techniques involved, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
How long does it take to make this cake?
From start to finish, this cake can be made in approximately 1-2 hours, including baking and assembly time.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake layers and frosting ahead of time and assemble the cake just before serving. Keep the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and store the frosting in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Can I use other types of fruit with this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches to create your own unique version of this cake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Simple Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With its fluffy cake layers, creamy whipped cream frosting, and juicy strawberries, it’s sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss!
Simple Strawberry Cream Cake
Ingredients
- 600 grams approximately 2.5 cups of heavy cream
- 200 grams about 7 ounces of cream cheese
- 200 grams 1 cup of low-fat quark (or a similar soft cheese)
- 80 grams around 3/8 cup of sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 24 grams 3 packets of cream stabilizer
- 400 grams 2 cups of fresh strawberries
- 16 crispy waffle cookies
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream with the cream stabilizer. Whip until the cream forms stiff peaks. Be careful not to overbeat.
- Blend Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, mix the cream cheese, low-fat quark, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Creams: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash the strawberries and cut them into slices. Save a few whole strawberries for decoration if you like.
- Layer the Cake: Start with a layer of waffle cookies at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread a layer of the cream mixture over the waffles, then add a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cream and strawberries on top.
- Chill: Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. This resting time lets the waffles soften and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Once set, decorate the top with the reserved strawberries. Slice and serve chilled.
