Irresistibly Easy Homemade Strawberry Cake Recipe

Strawberry cake is one of those desserts that just makes people happy. It’s light, fruity, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a birthday cake, a summer dessert, or just something sweet, this one delivers.

I’m sharing a homemade strawberry cake recipe that’s simple, delicious, and made with real strawberries. No boxed mixes, no artificial flavors—just fresh, natural goodness. If you’ve never baked a strawberry cake from scratch, don’t worry. It’s easier than you think.

Here’s what you’ll find in this post:

• Step-by-step recipe with easy-to-follow instructions
• Frosting ideas that pair perfectly with the cake
• Serving suggestions to make it extra special
• Gifting ideas for a homemade treat that impresses
• Storage tips so you can keep it fresh longer

This recipe is a Pinterest favorite, and for good reason. It’s moist, fluffy, and packed with real strawberry flavor. Plus, it looks beautiful with its soft pink layers and creamy frosting.

Want to take it up a notch? I’ll also share a few fun ways to decorate and serve your strawberry cake. Whether you like a classic look or something a little extra, I’ve got you covered.

So if you’re craving a slice of something sweet, let’s get baking. Keep reading for the full recipe, plus all the tips you need to make the best strawberry cake ever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s start with the ingredients. This list is simple, and you probably have most of these at home already. If not, a quick trip to the store will cover it.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups puréed fresh strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is the key to getting that natural, vibrant flavor in your cake. No need for artificial flavorings or colors here. You can use frozen strawberries if they’re out of season, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this cake is simple, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious strawberry cake in no time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This takes about 3–4 minutes with an electric mixer.
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the milk and flour mixture: Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the strawberry purée: Gently fold the puréed strawberries into the batter. You want to keep the batter light and fluffy, so don’t overmix.
7. Divide the batter between your prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

And there you have it, a light, fluffy strawberry cake that’s bursting with flavor. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Let’s talk about frosting.

How to Assemble a Strawberry Cake Like a Pro

Baking the cake is just the first step. Assembling it properly makes all the difference in how it looks and tastes. A well-layered strawberry cake stays moist, holds its shape, and makes each bite just as delicious as the last. Follow these simple steps to put your cake together like a pro.

Make Sure Your Cake is Completely Cooled

• Never try to frost a warm cake. The frosting will melt and slide off.
• Let the cake cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack until fully cooled.
• For best results, chill the cake layers in the fridge for 30 minutes before assembling. This makes them firmer and easier to work with.

Level the Cake Layers

• If the tops of your cakes are domed, use a serrated knife to gently slice off the rounded tops.
• Even layers help the cake stack properly and prevent it from leaning.
• Save the scraps for snacking or making cake pops!

Apply the First Layer of Frosting

• Place the first cake layer on a cake stand or plate.
• Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting or strawberry buttercream over the top, making sure to go all the way to the edges.
• For extra moisture, brush the cake lightly with simple syrup before frosting.

Add the Second Cake Layer

• Carefully place the second cake layer on top, lining it up evenly.
• Press gently to secure it without pushing out the frosting.

Frost the Outside of the Cake

• Spread a thin crumb coat of frosting over the entire cake to trap any loose crumbs.
• Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to set.
• Apply a thicker, final coat of frosting, smoothing the sides and top with a spatula.

Add Decorations

• Top with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of chocolate, or piped whipped cream.
• Keep it simple or go all out—it’s up to you!

Once assembled, your strawberry cake is ready to serve or store. Enjoy every slice!

Adjusting the Recipe for Different Cake Sizes

This strawberry cake recipe is designed for a two-layer cake using 9-inch round cake pans. Each layer will be light, fluffy, and sturdy enough to hold the frosting and filling. If you want to adjust the size or thickness of your cake, here’s what to do.

For Thicker Layers

• Use 8-inch round cake pans instead of 9-inch pans for a taller cake.
• Increase the batter by 25% if you want a more substantial two-layer cake.

For a Three-Layer Cake

• Divide the batter into three 8-inch cake pans for slightly thinner layers.
• To make a taller three-layer cake, increase the recipe by 50% and bake in three 8-inch or 9-inch pans.

Frosting Adjustments

• The frosting in this recipe is enough for a two-layer cake with a standard amount of coverage.
• If you want thicker frosting or extra decorations, increase the frosting by 1.5 times.

These small adjustments will help you customize your strawberry cake to fit your baking needs. Whether you want a classic two-layer cake or a taller three-layer version, this recipe can easily be adapted!

Frosting Ideas for Strawberry Cake

A good strawberry cake deserves a fantastic frosting. Here are a few simple ideas to take your cake to the next level.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting is a classic for a reason. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. To make it, all you need is:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Simply beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. You can add a bit of strawberry puree for color and extra flavor, too.

Whipped Cream Frosting

For something lighter, whipped cream frosting is a great choice. It’s especially good if you’re serving the cake on a warm day. Here’s what you need:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add the sugar and vanilla. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Spread it on your cake for a fluffy, light-as-air finish.

Strawberry Buttercream

For strawberry lovers, you can’t go wrong with strawberry buttercream. It’s easy to make and adds a bold, fruity flavor. You’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup strawberry purée
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Beat the butter until creamy, then slowly add the powdered sugar. Stir in the strawberry purée and vanilla, and continue mixing until smooth.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry cake is a versatile dessert. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a summer barbecue, or just because you’re craving something sweet, it works for almost any occasion. Here are a few fun ways to serve it:

• Top with fresh strawberries: Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the frosting for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Serve with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream is the perfect pairing for this cake.
• Drizzle with chocolate: For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top. Strawberries and chocolate are a match made in heaven.
• Layer with whipped cream: If you’re feeling fancy, cut the cake into layers and alternate with whipped cream and sliced strawberries in between. It’ll look impressive and taste even better.

How to Make Your Strawberry Cake Extra Moist

Nobody wants a dry cake. A great strawberry cake should be soft, fluffy, and full of moisture in every bite. If you’ve ever had a cake turn out too dry, don’t worry. There are a few tricks that make a big difference.

Here’s what helps keep your strawberry cake perfectly moist:

• Use fresh strawberries – The natural juices add moisture and flavor. If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well so the extra liquid doesn’t mess with your batter.
• Measure your flour correctly – Too much flour can dry out the cake. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until everything is just combined.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Butter, eggs, and milk blend better when they’re not straight from the fridge. This helps create a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
• Bake at the right temperature – If the oven is too hot, the cake bakes too fast on the outside and dries out before the inside is done. Always check with an oven thermometer to be sure it’s accurate.
• Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on your cake and check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Brush with simple syrup – If your cake needs a little extra moisture, lightly brush each layer with a mix of sugar and water before frosting.

Follow these tips, and your strawberry cake will turn out soft and delicious every time.

Creative Ways to Decorate a Strawberry Cake

A strawberry cake is already pretty, but with a little effort, you can make it look bakery-worthy. Whether you want a simple, classic look or something more decorative, there are plenty of ways to style it.

Try these ideas:

• Fresh strawberry slices – Arrange thin slices in a spiral on top of the cake for a clean, elegant design.
• Whole strawberries – Place whole strawberries around the edge for a natural and fresh look. Leave the green tops on for contrast.
• Chocolate drizzle – Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top for a fun twist. Strawberries and chocolate always go well together.
• Whipped cream swirls – Pipe small swirls of whipped cream around the edges, then top each with a berry for a fancy touch.
• Strawberry dust – Freeze-dried strawberries crushed into a fine powder can be sprinkled over the frosting for a beautiful, colorful finish.
• Ombre frosting – Use different shades of pink frosting and blend them together for a soft, gradient effect.
• Naked cake look – Skip heavy frosting on the sides and let the layers peek through for a rustic, bakery-style finish.

The best part is that decorating a strawberry cake doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a simple layer of frosting with fresh strawberries on top can look amazing. Get creative and have fun with it!

Fun Ways to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry cake is already a treat on its own, but how you serve it can make it even better. There are plenty of ways to dress it up and make it extra special.

Here are some fun ways to serve your strawberry cake:

• With a scoop of ice cream – Vanilla, strawberry, or even chocolate ice cream pairs perfectly with a slice. Serve it slightly warm for an extra indulgent treat.
• Topped with whipped cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that balances the cake’s sweetness.
• With a drizzle of strawberry sauce – Blend fresh strawberries with a little sugar and lemon juice for a simple homemade sauce.
• As a layered trifle – Crumble leftover cake into glasses and layer with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an easy, elegant dessert.
• Paired with coffee or tea – A warm drink makes a slice of strawberry cake feel even more like a special treat.
• Cut into mini squares – Serve bite-sized cake squares at parties for a mess-free option. Add a small strawberry on top for decoration.
• With a side of fresh fruit – A few extra berries or slices of peach make a plate look even more inviting.

Strawberry cake is delicious no matter how you serve it, but adding a little extra something can make it feel even more special. Try one of these ideas the next time you bake a strawberry cake!

Where to Serve

When it comes to when to make strawberry cake, the possibilities are endless. Here are just a few ideas:

• Birthdays: Strawberry cake is a fun twist on the classic birthday cake. It’s colorful, festive, and a hit with both kids and adults.
• Spring gatherings: Fresh strawberries come into season in the spring, making this cake a perfect dessert for Easter, Mother’s Day, or any springtime party.
• Summer barbecues: What could be more refreshing after a day in the sun than a light, fruity dessert? This cake is a crowd-pleaser for summer events.

And of course, it’s also great for just because moments. Sometimes you don’t need a special occasion to bake a cake.

Gifting Strawberry Cake

Strawberry cake makes a thoughtful and unique gift. Whether you’re bringing dessert to a potluck or celebrating a friend’s special day, here are a few ways to make your cake a memorable gift:

• Use a pretty cake box: Presentation is everything. Invest in a nice cake box, or use a cake stand with a lid if you’re delivering it locally.
• Wrap slices individually: If you’re gifting the cake to multiple people, consider cutting it into slices and wrapping each one in parchment paper. Tie them with ribbon for a sweet touch.
• Pair with a handwritten note: Include a note with a simple message. Something like “Made with love” or “Enjoy this sweet treat” adds a personal touch.

No matter how you present it, homemade cake is always appreciated. It’s a delicious way to show someone you care.

Storing Leftover Strawberry Cake

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), it’s important to store your strawberry cake properly to keep it fresh. Here’s how to do it:

• Room temperature: If you’re planning to eat the cake within 1–2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Keep it covered in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake. Just make sure to cover it well. The frosting will firm up, so take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to let it soften.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze strawberry cake! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry cake is a dessert that always hits the spot. It’s soft, sweet, and full of fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because, this recipe is a great one to have on hand. With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can make a homemade strawberry cake that tastes amazing.

Here’s a quick look at what was covered in this post:

• A step-by-step recipe for a light, fluffy, and moist strawberry cake.
• Tips to keep it from drying out like using fresh strawberries, measuring flour correctly, and not overmixing the batter.
• Fun ways to decorate using fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, ombre frosting, and whipped cream swirls.
• Creative serving ideas like pairing with ice cream, making a trifle, or serving with strawberry sauce.
• Gifting ideas to make a homemade cake feel even more special.

Strawberry cake is also a Pinterest favorite because it’s not just delicious—it looks beautiful too. With its soft pink layers and creamy frosting, it’s a cake that stands out. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different decorations and toppings.

So, if you’re craving something sweet, now is the perfect time to bake a strawberry cake. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with fancy toppings, this cake is sure to impress. Try it, share it, and enjoy every bite!