Moist Spring Strawberry Layer Cake

Name: Moist Spring Strawberry Layer Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup pureed strawberries; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Homemade Dessert Favorites

I absolutely love baking, especially when it involves fresh, seasonal ingredients like strawberries. This Moist Spring Strawberry Layer Cake has become a staple in my kitchen during springtime, celebrating the vibrant flavors that fresh strawberries bring. I enjoy layering fluffy cake with homemade strawberry frosting and sweet bits of fruit, creating a dish that is not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect finish to any meal during the warmer months and always gets rave reviews from family and friends!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:40:50.430Z

When I first made this cake, I was surprised at how tender and moist the layers turned out, and it inspired me to continue experimenting with seasonal fruits in my baking. The trick to keeping the cake moist is to not overmix the batter and to incorporate ripe strawberries into the layers seamlessly. I still remember the delighted faces of my guests as they enjoyed this beautiful layer cake, making every bit of effort worth it!

Another tip I’ve learned while baking this cake is to let the ingredients come to room temperature before mixing. This simple step enhances the overall flavor and texture of the cake, giving it a delightful crumb. I often play around with the frosting, sometimes swapping vanilla for a hint of almond extract. It adds a unique twist while complementing the strawberries beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries create a delightful, fruity flavor.
Fluffy layers paired with creamy frosting make every bite indulgent.
A stunning centerpiece for spring celebrations and gatherings.

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries in this cake not only elevates the flavor but also adds natural moisture to the batter. Fresh strawberries are juicier and sweeter than their frozen counterparts, which can lead to a flatter taste profile and drier texture. When selecting strawberries, look for firm, brightly colored berries without blemishes to ensure the best flavor. If you have leftover strawberries, consider macerating them with a little sugar to further enhance their sweetness before using them in your frosting or as a decoration.

In addition to freshness, the size of the chopped strawberries matters. Aim for pieces that are about 1/2 inch in size, which allow for even distribution throughout the cake while keeping a delightful bite. Too large can lead to uneven baking and could cause the cake to sink if they are too heavy. On the other hand, if they're too small, they may lose their texture and flavor in the cake.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Frosting

Achieving that perfect creamy texture in your strawberry frosting starts with room temperature butter. If the butter is too cold, it won't mix properly with the sugar and can create a gritty texture. When you beat the butter until it’s light and fluffy—around 3-5 minutes on medium speed—you're incorporating air, which makes the frosting lighter and gives it that fluffy consistency. Add the strawberry puree gradually to avoid making the frosting too runny; if you notice it's getting too liquid, you can always add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it back up.

In case your frosting is too thick, a tablespoon of heavy cream can work wonders for adjusting the consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, a sprinkle more of powdered sugar or chilling it for a short time in the refrigerator can help restore stability. Once frosted, if you want your cake to stay fresh longer, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the cake just as tasty, if not better, the next day!

Ingredients

The following ingredients are needed to create this delicious cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped fresh strawberries

For the Strawberry Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup pureed strawberries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Make sure to have everything measured and prepared before starting the baking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Moist Spring Strawberry Layer Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and pureed strawberries. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with heavy cream if needed.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then layer the second cake on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Decorate and Serve

Top the cake with additional fresh strawberries for decoration if desired. Slice and serve to enjoy!

Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the frosting for a zesty twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Moist Spring Strawberry Layer Cake can be made in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy gatherings. You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring moisture locks in. Store them at room temperature if you plan to frost them the next day; otherwise, refrigerate for extended freshness. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before frosting for the best results.

If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag; they'll maintain their delicious taste in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Layer Cake shines on its own, but you can elevate its presentation by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy additions complement the fruity flavors while adding another layer of decadence to each bite. For a touch of elegance, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or fresh mint leaves for a stunning finish.

To highlight its springtime elements, pair the cake with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries on the side. The burst of color not only makes for an inviting display but also harmonizes beautifully with the strawberry flavor, making every slice vibrant and eye-catching.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers and frost them a day in advance; just keep them refrigerated.

→ Is it possible to substitute other fruits?

Definitely! You can use raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.