Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the rich, velvety texture of this Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake that combines the classic flavors of red velvet with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. Perfectly moist and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is an eye-catching centerpiece for any celebration or dessert table. Elevate your baking game with this show-stopping treat that's sure to impress your friends and family.
This Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of red velvet with fresh strawberries for a unique twist on a classic dessert.
A Classic Reimagined
Red velvet cake is a timeless classic that never fails to captivate dessert lovers. Its vibrant red color and rich, tender crumb make it a favorite for many occasions, from birthdays to weddings. This Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake takes the original recipe a step further by incorporating fresh strawberries, adding a delightful sweetness and a pop of color that elevates the visual appeal.
Combining the distinct cocoa flavor of red velvet with the freshness of strawberries not only enhances the taste profile but also creates a stunning dessert presentation. Perfect for those who appreciate a beautiful cake that tastes as good as it looks, this recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.
Tips for the Perfect Texture
Achieving the perfect moistness in a cake is crucial, and this recipe guarantees just that. The combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil contributes to a tender crumb that stays deliciously moist, even days after baking. Be sure to use room temperature ingredients, as they blend better and help the cake rise evenly, preventing any dense spots.
Don't rush the mixing process; gently combining the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated ensures a light cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough texture. Trust the baking time and check doneness with a toothpick; every oven is a little different, and this step is key to your cake's success.
Decorating Your Cake
The decoration of your Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is as important as the baking process itself. Once layered and frosted, the addition of fresh strawberries on top not only adds a burst of color but also a touch of natural sweetness that complements the cream cheese frosting beautifully. Consider using whole strawberries for dramatic flair or slicing them for a finer presentation.
For extra charm, try adding chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the frosting. You can even experiment with edible flowers for a touch of elegance, turning your cake into a show-stopping centerpiece that will have your guests in awe. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dessert:
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
Make sure everything is prepared and ready before you start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake:
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well incorporated and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and repeat the frosting process.
- Top with the final layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful finish.
Slice and serve your delicious cake to friends and family!
Storage Tips
To keep your Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider placing it in the fridge. Just ensure that it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.
For an even longer shelf life, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience even further. The contrast of temperatures is wonderful, creating a luxurious dessert that is both comforting and indulgent.
For a more adventurous twist, consider serving it alongside a berry compote or a drizzle of citrus glaze for added zest. Each bite can surprise with new flavor combinations, ensuring that guests will be talking about your baking skills long after the last slice is gone.
Perfect Occasions
The Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is versatile enough for a multitude of celebrations. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or picnic, this cake effortlessly fits the theme of any gathering. Its stunning appearance makes it a fitting centerpiece for special occasions, while its exquisite taste is perfect for impressing your friends and family.
Don't forget to consider seasonal events! Spring and summer gatherings are especially ideal for this cake, as strawberries are at their freshest. Incorporating this cake into your spring celebrations is guaranteed to brighten up any dessert table and leave a lasting impression.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before decorating the cake.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake
Delight in the rich, velvety texture of this Juicy Red Velvet Strawberry Cake that combines the classic flavors of red velvet with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. Perfectly moist and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is an eye-catching centerpiece for any celebration or dessert table. Elevate your baking game with this show-stopping treat that's sure to impress your friends and family.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
How-To Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well incorporated and fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and repeat the frosting process.
- Top with the final layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful finish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g