French Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of strawberries with a light, fluffy cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake shines at birthday parties, summer gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. Its unique charm lies in the fresh strawberries folded into the batter, creating bursts of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This French Strawberry Cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and vanilla creates a rich flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, with whipped cream, or alongside ice cream for an added treat!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or a casual gathering, this cake fits right in.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using real strawberries not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect French Strawberry Cake, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect cake texture.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to easily combine wet and dry ingredients without confusion.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: These tools save time and effort when whipping butter and sugar to fluffy perfection.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 1/3 cup flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 stick of softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
For the Creaminess
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (I use low fat)
For the Strawberries
- 2 cups rough chopped strawberries
For Finishing Touches
- Sugar for finishing
How to Make French Strawberry Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch round pan and add parchment paper to the bottom to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whip together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy and light in color.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add in the eggs one at a time. Beat well after adding each egg until fully combined.
Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly with your butter and sugar mixture.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add in the flour mixture and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Start with flour mixture and end with it for best results.
Step 7: Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want those strawberry pieces intact!
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Spread your batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for a delightful finish after baking.
Step 9: Bake Your Cake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean from the center.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow it to cool before serving. If desired, gently remove from the pan for presentation on a serving plate. Enjoy your delicious French Strawberry Cake!
How to Serve French Strawberry Cake
Serving French Strawberry Cake can be a delightful experience, whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering. Each serving suggestion enhances the cake’s flavors and textures, making it even more enjoyable.
A La Mode
- Serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast that complements the strawberries perfectly.
Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with freshly whipped cream. The lightness of the cream adds an airy touch that enhances the fruity flavor of the cake.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cake before serving. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with strawberries, adding a decadent element to each bite.
Fruit Compote
- Accompany the cake with a homemade berry compote. The tartness from the mixed berries adds depth and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Mint Garnish
- Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish on each slice. The mint provides a refreshing flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet strawberries.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the cake’s sweetness and enhances its overall taste experience.
How to Perfect French Strawberry Cake
To achieve the perfect French Strawberry Cake, consider these helpful tips for an exceptional result every time.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Select ripe and fresh strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness. They make a significant difference in taste.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air for fluffiness.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake around 30 minutes of baking time by inserting a toothpick. This prevents overbaking and keeps it moist.
Cool Completely: Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This helps maintain its structure and prevents crumbling.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon zest or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile of your French Strawberry Cake.
Best Side Dishes for French Strawberry Cake
Pairing side dishes with French Strawberry Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some suggestions that complement this delicious cake beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, adding richness and creaminess to balance out the fruity notes of the cake.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can offer refreshing flavors that complement the strawberry essence in the cake.
Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert contrasts nicely with the lighter texture of the cake, enhancing your dessert table’s variety.
Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio crumble provides texture contrast while adding nutty flavors that work well alongside strawberries.
Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes your palate between bites of sweet strawberry cake, creating a delightful balance.
Cheese Board: Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which can provide savory notes that pair interestingly with sweet desserts.
Berry Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with berries for an easy-to-make side that echoes the flavors in your French Strawberry Cake.
Chai-Spiced Nuts: These spiced nuts add warmth and crunch, complementing both texture and flavor when served alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect French Strawberry Cake can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can cause the cake to stick. Always line your pan for easy removal.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can ruin your cake. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.
Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.
Underbaking the cake: Removing the cake too early will lead to a gooey center. Always check with a tester before taking it out of the oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store the French Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
- item It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing French Strawberry Cake
- item Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- item The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating French Strawberry Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making French Strawberry Cake:
How do I make my French Strawberry Cake more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding lemon zest or almond extract along with vanilla.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Is French Strawberry Cake suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration.
How do I store leftover French Strawberry Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
This French Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. Its light texture and fresh strawberries make it versatile and appealing. Feel free to customize it with different berries or toppings to suit your taste!
French Strawberry Cake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of French Strawberry Cake, a light and fluffy dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This elegant cake features fresh strawberries folded into a simple batter, offering bursts of fruity sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Serve it plain, with whipped cream, or alongside ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 stick softened butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
- Sugar for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a greased 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully combined.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream, starting and ending with flour.
- Gently fold in chopped strawberries without overmixing.
- Spread batter evenly in the pan and sprinkle sugar on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 48mg
