Moist Strawberry Velvet Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the world of decadent desserts with our Moist Strawberry Velvet Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe! This stunning cake is not only a treat for the eyes, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. Using everyday ingredients, you’ll be able to create a masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings. The combination of moist strawberry velvet cake layers, filled and topped with a creamy frosting, will leave your guests in awe. So, let’s dive into the magic behind this recipe and discover how to make it with ease.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors, with the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of cream, creates a perfect harmony that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• The accessibility of ingredients means you can easily find everything you need in your local grocery store, making this recipe a convenient choice for any baker.
• The impressive results, with its vibrant colors and moist texture, are achieved with minimal effort, thanks to a straightforward recipe that guides you through each step.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
• 1 cup creamy frosting (see below for frosting ingredients)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers – Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat in vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Add Strawberry Flavor and Bake – Gently fold in sliced strawberries. Divide the batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Frosting – For the frosting, you will need 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons whole milk, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Add salt, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
4. Step 4: Assemble the Cake – Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, and repeat with the remaining two cake layers, creating a stacked effect. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Handy Tips

• For an intense strawberry flavor, use high-quality strawberry extract or fresh strawberries to make a strawberry puree to add to the batter.
• To ensure the cake layers are evenly baked, rotate the pans halfway through the baking time.
• If you find the frosting too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Heat Control

When baking the cake layers, it’s crucial to maintain the oven temperature at 350°F (180°C) for even baking. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer comes out clean. Avoid overbaking, as it can make the cake dry.

Crunch Factor

This cake is designed to be moist and tender, not crunchy. To achieve the perfect texture, don’t overmix the batter, and make sure to not overbake the cake layers. The creamy frosting adds a smooth and velvety contrast to the soft cake.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure your cake layers are perfectly level, use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim any domed tops before assembling the cake.
• For a professional finish, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• When freezing, it’s best to freeze the cake layers separately, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then assemble and frost the cake on the day of serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift for any occasion. Consider packaging a smaller version of the cake in a decorative cake box or wrapping it beautifully in cellophane and tying with a ribbon. Adding a handwritten note or a small bouquet of fresh strawberries can make it an even more thoughtful gift.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a unique twist.
• Use creative toppings such as chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or dried strawberries to add texture and visual appeal.
• Swap the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries to create a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake layers turn out too dense, check if you overmixed the batter or if your oven temperature was off.
• For frosting issues, like it being too thin or too thick, adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk, respectively.
• Watch for overcooking signs like dry edges or a toothpick that comes out too clean, indicating the cake might be overbaked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake layers for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them separately and then assemble and frost the cake when you’re ready to serve.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours to adapt the recipe.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have enough pans and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

With this Moist Strawberry Velvet Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe, you’re not just making a cake; you’re creating an experience. The combination of moist cake, flavorful strawberries, and creamy frosting is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to impress. So, go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of making something truly special. Happy baking!