Strawberry Red Velvet Delight: Your Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Discover the perfect marriage of bold red velvet flavors and fresh strawberries in this Strawberry Red Velvet Cake. With velvety cream cheese frosting and juicy strawberries, this dessert is sure to steal the spotlight at any event!
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Garnish:
- 1 ½ cups (300g) fresh strawberries, halved
- 2 tablespoons strawberry glaze or syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, buttermilk, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until smooth.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter equally between the two pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake, covering it evenly.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
- Arrange halved strawberries on top of the cake.
- Drizzle strawberry glaze or syrup over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerating the cake before slicing ensures clean and neat portions.
- Even Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cake layers if they’re uneven.
- Freshness First: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries to enhance the cake’s flavor.
Storage Tips
- In the Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry topping.
Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based cream cheese, butter, and buttermilk alternatives to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Q: Can I make the frosting less sweet?
A: Adjust the powdered sugar to your taste or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake combines the bold, rich flavors of red velvet with the freshness of strawberries, creating a visually stunning and delicious dessert. Whether for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual gatherings, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.