If you’re craving a dessert that’s both light and bursting with sweet strawberry flavor, look no further than this Strawberry Cake with Frosting! This cake is the ultimate treat, with its tender, moist texture and that irresistible strawberry aroma. The combination of fresh strawberries in both the cake and the frosting makes this dessert an absolute dream. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging yourself on a sweet afternoon. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cake With Frosting
This cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of strawberries in every bite. Here’s why this recipe will become your go-to:
Fresh and Fruity
The real star here is the strawberry flavor. Fresh strawberries are mixed into both the cake batter and the frosting, making it a perfect fruity indulgence for strawberry lovers.
Light and Moist
This cake is incredibly soft, moist, and light—thanks to a careful mix of ingredients and the addition of pureed strawberries. It practically melts in your mouth!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just a regular weekend, this cake is versatile enough to shine at any event. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will adore.
Homemade Frosting
No store-bought frosting here! This homemade strawberry frosting is creamy, smooth, and has the perfect sweetness, perfectly complementing the moist cake.

Ingredients
Ready to make your own strawberry cake? Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour
The foundation of the cake batter. All-purpose flour gives the cake structure while keeping it light and fluffy. - Sugar
Sweetens the cake beautifully, making it the perfect treat. - Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These two leavening agents help the cake rise and become nice and fluffy. - Salt
A small amount of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor. - Butter
Provides richness and moisture to the cake, giving it that soft, tender texture. - Eggs
Adds structure and stability to the cake while keeping it moist. - Vanilla Extract
Infuses the cake with a subtle, sweet fragrance that enhances the overall flavor. - Milk
Used to help bind the ingredients and create a smooth batter. - Fresh Strawberries (Pureed)
The star of the cake! Fresh strawberry puree gives the cake a natural sweetness and vibrant pink color.
For the Frosting:
- Butter
Creamy butter is the base of the frosting and provides a rich texture. - Powdered Sugar
Gives the frosting its sweetness and smooth consistency. - Fresh Strawberries (Pureed)
Adds flavor and a pop of color to the frosting. Fresh strawberry puree gives the frosting a fresh, fruity kick. - Vanilla Extract
Rounds out the sweetness and adds a fragrant hint to the frosting. - Heavy Cream
Helps to make the frosting creamy and spreadable, giving it the perfect consistency for decorating.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s walk through the simple steps to make this delightful cake:
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cake comes out easily.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. You can do this with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate the Strawberry Puree
Add the strawberry puree to the butter and egg mixture, stirring until fully combined. The batter should have a light pink color.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Slowly add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting
While the cakes cool, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting becomes fluffy. Add the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, and continue to beat until smooth and spreadable.
Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Decorate
If you’d like, decorate with fresh strawberries or even some extra crumbled cake for a rustic touch.
Serve and Enjoy
Cut yourself a slice of this dreamy strawberry cake, serve it to your friends, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: 350 calories
Nutritional Breakdown (per slice):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 25%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 6%
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Frosting
This cake is perfect for so many occasions! Here are a few ways to serve it:
For Birthdays or Celebrations
This cake is a showstopper for any birthday party, holiday gathering, or special celebration. Add some colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra festive touch.
With a Cup of Tea or Coffee
A slice of strawberry cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. It’s the perfect afternoon treat for when you want something sweet but not too heavy.
As a Dessert for Family and Friends
This cake is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for serving family and friends at a dinner party or potluck.
A Sweet Treat on Its Own
Sometimes, all you need is a slice of cake with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side to make the moment feel special.
Additional Tips
Use Fresh Strawberries
For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries instead of frozen. The fresher, the better—this will ensure your cake has the most vibrant, natural strawberry taste.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense rather than light and fluffy.
Make It Gluten-Free
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a one-to-one ratio for the best results.
Adjust the Sweetness
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the frosting to your taste. If you like it less sweet, you can reduce the powdered sugar by a little.
Add Extra Layers
If you want to make the cake extra decadent, you can split the layers and add some strawberry jam or whipped cream between them before frosting.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can make the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Frost it when you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
A2: While fresh strawberries work best, you can use frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using them in the batter and frosting.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q4: Can I make this cake without frosting?
A4: Absolutely! This cake is delicious on its own, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the frosting or just dust it with powdered sugar.
Q5: How do I get the frosting to be smooth?
A5: Be sure to beat the frosting ingredients well until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more heavy cream. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Q6: Can I freeze this cake?
A6: Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Once you’re ready to serve, thaw them out and frost.
Q7: What’s the best way to decorate the cake?
A7: Fresh strawberries on top are always a hit. You can also pipe the frosting in swirls or decorate with sprinkles for extra flair.
Q8: Can I use a different flavor of frosting?
A8: Sure! You can use any type of frosting you like, such as vanilla, cream cheese, or chocolate frosting.
Q9: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A9: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should also start pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Q10: Can I add more fruit to the cake?
A10: Yes! You can add other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry cake. Just be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the cake’s texture.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cake with Frosting is a fruity, sweet, and utterly delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a moist, tender cake and a creamy strawberry frosting, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply indulging in something sweet, this cake will not disappoint! Enjoy every bite of this strawberry-packed delight!
Print
Strawberry Cake With Frosting
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This delicious homemade Strawberry Cake with Frosting is a perfect dessert for any occasion! Bursting with the sweet and fresh flavors of strawberries, this cake is moist, fluffy, and topped with a creamy, decadent strawberry frosting. Whether for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this cake will be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 6–8 medium strawberries)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree (or more, depending on your desired flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (for consistency, if needed)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
-
Add the Eggs and Flavorings:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until combined.
-
Add the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate small bowl, combine the fresh strawberry puree, milk, and vegetable oil. Slowly add this mixture into the butter and sugar mixture, beating until combined.
-
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
-
Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Make the Strawberry Frosting:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the fresh strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is light and creamy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
-
Frost the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining strawberry frosting.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the cake! Garnish with fresh strawberries or extra frosting if desired. Enjoy your fresh, homemade strawberry cake!
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of strawberry jam to the frosting for a richer strawberry taste.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can use whipped cream cheese mixed with whipped cream for a tangy twist.
- To store the cake, cover with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg