Name: Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pureed strawberries; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); Fresh strawberries for decoration

Introduction to Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I absolutely adore this Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake! It’s a delightful twist on the classic red velvet, combining rich flavors with a fruity touch. Perfect for any celebration, this cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is a quick solution that will impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake

This Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake is a game-changer for busy days. It’s easy to whip up, taking just about an hour from start to finish. The combination of rich red velvet and fresh strawberries creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a showstopper at any gathering, making you the star of the dessert table. Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about it long after the last slice is gone!

Ingredients for Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that lovely moist crumb.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and adds moisture without overpowering flavors.
Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and helps the cake rise beautifully.
Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and adding richness.
Cocoa powder: Just a touch for that classic red velvet flavor without overwhelming the strawberries.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, making it even more delicious.
Baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
White vinegar: Activates the baking soda, giving the cake its lift and lightness.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Pureed strawberries: The star of the show! They add a fruity twist and vibrant color.
Cream cheese: The base for the frosting, providing a rich and tangy flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess to the frosting, making it smooth and spreadable.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that perfect texture.
Fresh strawberries: For decoration, they not only look beautiful but also add a fresh burst of flavor.

For those looking to experiment, consider adding a tablespoon of strawberry extract to the frosting for an extra punch of flavor. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grease two 9-inch round cake pans. I like to use a bit of vegetable oil or butter, then dust them with flour. This helps the cakes slide out easily once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial because it ensures that the cocoa and salt are evenly distributed throughout the cake, giving it that signature red velvet flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and pureed strawberries. The strawberries add a lovely fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich red velvet. Make sure everything is mixed well; you want a smooth, vibrant mixture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Activate Baking Soda

In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and white vinegar. You’ll see it fizz and bubble—this is the magic that helps your cake rise! Quickly add this mixture to your batter and stir gently. This reaction is what gives your Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake its delightful texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important because frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess!

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the cakes cool, let’s whip up the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency. Taste it—if you want more sweetness, feel free to add a bit more sugar!

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then carefully place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, making it look as beautiful as it tastes.

Step 10: Decorate

Finally, let’s add some flair! Decorate the top with fresh strawberries. You can slice them or leave them whole for a stunning presentation. Not only do they look gorgeous, but they also add a fresh burst of flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined.
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips to the batter!

Equipment Needed

Two 9-inch round cake pans (or use one 9×13-inch pan for a single layer).
Mixing bowls (a large and a medium will do).
Whisk and spatula for mixing.
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Cooling racks (or a plate to cool the cakes).

Variations

For a chocolate lover’s dream, add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
Swap out the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
Try using almond milk instead of buttermilk for a dairy-free option.
Add a hint of orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
For a lighter version, reduce the sugar in the cake and frosting by half.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve alongside fresh whipped cream for added richness.
Complement with a glass of chilled sparkling water or lemonade.
For a festive touch, garnish with mint leaves.
Present on a beautiful cake stand to elevate your dessert table.

FAQs about Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake

As you embark on your baking adventure with this Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing. This will help maintain the right consistency in your cake.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Frost them the day you plan to serve for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Is this cake suitable for special diets?

This Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake can be adapted for various dietary needs. You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or almond milk for a dairy-free option. Just be sure to adjust the other ingredients accordingly!

Final Thoughts

Baking this Strawberry Red Velvet Cream Cake is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that brings people together. The vibrant colors and delightful flavors create a sense of celebration, whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family gathering. I love watching my loved ones’ faces light up with each bite, and it warms my heart to know I’ve created something special. This cake is a reminder that even in our busy lives, we can carve out moments of sweetness and connection. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the magic of baking!