Description
A charming vintage-inspired cake topped with fresh strawberries, perfect for birthdays and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 batch buttercream frosting (recipe below)
- Simple buttercream frosting: 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream; A pinch of salt.
- Optional streusel topping: 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour, 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and lemon zest.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk in three parts, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sliced strawberries so they’re evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and smooth tops.
- Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the buttercream by beating the butter until creamy, gradually adding powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and a pinch of salt until the texture is smooth and spreadable.
- Level the cakes if needed, place one layer on a cake board, spread a thin layer of buttercream and a few slices of strawberries, then add the second layer.
- Crumb-coat the cake with a thin layer of frosting and chill for 15–20 minutes.
- Finish with a smooth topcoat of buttercream. Use a small round tip to pipe a delicate bow and tiny rosettes, or place a few fresh strawberries and edible flowers for a whimsical touch.
Notes
For a crunchy edge, consider adding a streusel topping. Chill the cake between coats for a smooth finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American