Strawberry Cake from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

There’s nothing quite like a slice of strawberry cake to brighten your day. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this fruity, fluffy treat is loved by many. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best homemade strawberry cake recipe.

And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, you might enjoy this helpful strawberry cake preparation guide for alternative ideas.

The Sweet History Behind Strawberry Cake

Strawberry cakes have a rich legacy that spans cultures. Originally popularized in European spring celebrations, these cakes have become a staple in modern baking. Over the years, they’ve evolved from simple sponge cakes topped with strawberries into rich, layered desserts bursting with natural berry flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake

There’s something undeniably special about a homemade strawberry cake. It’s more than just a dessert, it’s a sweet celebration of simplicity, seasonality, and real ingredients. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or for yourself, this cake has everything you need to make hearts (and taste buds) happy.

1. Made with Real Ingredients – No Additives, No Gelatin

In a world filled with artificial flavors, preservatives, and boxed mixes, this strawberry cake stands out for its wholesome simplicity.

• Only what you need: flour, eggs, sugar, fresh strawberries, and love.
• Naturally light and fresh, just like cake should be.

2. Naturally Sweet & Bursting with Berry Flavor

What makes this cake truly unforgettable is its genuine strawberry taste.

• Thanks to macerated berries and optional syrup drizzle, every bite is juicy and satisfying.
• No need for artificial coloring or strawberry essence.
• The flavor shines through, fresh, fruity, and naturally delicious.

📝 Ideal for spring picnics, summer brunches, or lazy Sunday afternoons.

3. Adaptable for Any Diet or Occasion

Not only is this cake easy to bake, it’s also incredibly versatile:

• Egg-free? Use applesauce or yogurt instead.
• Dairy-free? Coconut cream makes a dreamy whipped topping.
• Gluten-free? Just swap in your favorite GF flour blend.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a baby shower, or just because, it’s easy to adjust this recipe without losing its charm.

4. Fancy Enough for a Party, Simple Enough for Sunday Tea

The best desserts are the ones that fit every mood, and this cake nails that balance:

• Dress it up with piped cream and strawberries for a photo-ready centerpiece.
• Or keep it rustic, just a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh berries will do.
• Either way, it looks beautiful and tastes like comfort.

📝 From special events to everyday joy, it always feels like the right choice.

5. Once You Try It, You’ll Want to Make It Again and Again

It’s the kind of cake that earns compliments, and recipe requests.

• Easy enough for beginners.
• Rewarding enough for seasoned bakers.
• And every time you make it, you’ll find new ways to personalize it.

Strawberry cake is more than a recipe, it’s a tradition in the making. And it all starts with a single slice.

Ingredients for a Classic Strawberry Cake

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect homemade strawberry cake, and we’re keeping it wholesome and pork-free.

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour 
• 1 tsp baking powder 
• ¼ tsp salt 
• 4 large eggs 
• 1 cup granulated sugar 
• ¼ cup milk 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 

For the Filling & Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice 
• ¼ cup sugar (for the berries)
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream 
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 

Optional:

• Strawberry syrup for drizzling 
• Whole strawberries for decoration

Step-by-Step: Make Your Dreamy Strawberry Cake

We’ve broken the process into manageable steps so even beginner bakers can feel confident. Let’s dive in!

1. Make the Cake Base

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture is thick, pale, and doubled in volume (this takes about 5–6 minutes).
• Gently fold in the dry ingredients.
• Warm the milk (don’t boil), stir in vanilla, and add it into the batter.
• Pour into a greased 8-inch round or square pan.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before assembly.

💡 Pro tip: For a fluffier result, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before beating them.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling

• Mix your sliced strawberries with lemon juice and sugar.
• Let them sit for 15–20 minutes. This process is called maceration, which helps release their natural juices and intensifies flavor.

💡 Pro tip: Use freshly picked, in-season strawberries for the best taste.

3. Whip the Cream

• Beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
• Don’t overbeat, or it’ll turn into butter.

💡 Pro tip: Chill your bowl and beaters beforehand for the fluffiest whipped cream.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Slice the cake horizontally to create two layers (optional).
• Spread a layer of whipped cream.
• Spoon over the macerated strawberries and their syrupy juices.
• Gently place the second layer on top.
• Top with more whipped cream and decorate with strawberry slices and syrup.

Tips and Tricks for a Flawless Strawberry Cake

Even the simplest cake needs love and precision! Here are some secrets to upgrade your results:

• Always fold, don’t stir, to keep your batter airy.
• Let the cake cool fully before decorating – otherwise, the cream will melt.
• You can add a tablespoon of strawberry puree to the batter for extra flavor.
• Want to cut down on sugar? Substitute some of the sugar with mashed ripe banana.

Common Variations of Strawberry Cake

If you’re feeling adventurous or catering to specific diets, consider these variations:

• Strawberry Shortcake: Use sweetened biscuits or sponge as the base.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for a GF blend and add xanthan gum.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Eggless Version: Replace each egg with ¼ cup applesauce or yogurt.

💡 Pro tip: Always adjust baking time when modifying ingredients.

Nutritional Breakdown of Homemade Strawberry Cake

When made with fresh ingredients and without heavy additives or frosting, homemade strawberry cake is a relatively light dessert.

Estimated Nutrition Per Slice (8 servings)

• Calories: ~285
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 19g

Keep in mind these values may vary based on serving size and how much whipped cream or syrup you use. That said, this cake can easily be made lighter or richer depending on your preferences.

Healthier Tips Without Sacrificing Flavor

• Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or stevia blend.
• Replace part of the whipped cream with Greek yogurt for more protein.
• Reduce the cake size slightly and serve with extra fruit on the side.

Creative Serving Ideas for Strawberry Cake

Don’t just stop at baking, presentation is where your strawberry cake can truly shine. With a few thoughtful touches, you can transform a humble homemade dessert into a bakery-worthy showstopper. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, here are delicious and visually stunning ideas to elevate every slice.

1. Drizzle with Warm Strawberry Purée & Top with Mint

A warm strawberry purée adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture, especially if the cake was made a day ahead.

• Simply blend a handful of strawberries with a bit of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Warm it gently over low heat until slightly thickened.
• Drizzle over each slice just before serving.
• Garnish with a small fresh mint leaf for contrast and a burst of green color.

💡 Pro tip: This works especially well with chilled cake, creating a hot-and-cold contrast that feels gourmet.

2. Decorate with Edible Flowers

Bring spring or summer vibes to your cake by using edible flowers as a topping.

• Violets, pansies, nasturtiums, or chamomile flowers add elegance and are safe to eat.
• Scatter them over a smooth layer of whipped cream or arrange them in a circle pattern.

3. Serve with Herbal Tea for a Relaxing Afternoon Treat

Pairing your cake with the right beverage can turn a simple moment into a full sensory experience.

• Try it with chamomile, lemon balm, or mint tea, herbal flavors that complement the sweetness of the cake.
• Serve on delicate tea sets or vintage cups for added charm.

📝 Perfect for garden parties, Mother’s Day, or self-care Sundays.

4. Transform Leftovers Into Cake Parfaits

Don’t let a single crumb go to waste! Turn leftover strawberry cake into easy parfaits:

Crumble the cake and layer with:

• Vanilla yogurt or Greek yogurt
• Macerated strawberries
• A sprinkle of granola or crushed nuts

Layer in clear glasses or mason jars for a portable and pretty dessert. It’s a great way to repurpose cake while keeping things fresh and exciting.

Fun Frosting Alternatives (No Buttercream Needed)

If you want to skip traditional frosting (often heavy or overly sweet), try these lighter options:

• Whipped mascarpone with a hint of honey
• Thick Greek yogurt with vanilla and maple syrup
• Coconut whipped cream with fresh strawberry puree
• Just dust with powdered sugar and top with berries for a rustic finish

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Planning ahead? Here’s how to keep your strawberry cake tasting fresh:

• Bake in advance: The cake base can be baked up to 2 days ahead. Wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate.
• Assemble later: Keep strawberries and whipped cream separate until ready to serve.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Best enjoyed within 2–3 days.

💡 Pro tip: Avoid freezing whipped cream, it loses its texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cake

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well. Frozen strawberries tend to release more liquid, which can make your cake soggy if not handled carefully.

Q: How can I make this cake eggless?

You can substitute each egg with:

• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp chia seeds soaked in 3 tbsp water

Q: How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?

• Make sure not to overmix your batter.
• Avoid opening the oven door too early.
• Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Q: Can I use almond flour or other gluten-free flours?

Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If using almond flour alone, you may need to adjust the number of eggs or add a binding agent like xanthan gum.

Q: What’s the best way to decorate it for a birthday?

• Use a round layer cake pan for a tiered look.
• Pipe whipped cream along the edges.
• Decorate with sliced strawberries in a flower pattern on top.
• Add natural food coloring for pastel pink whipped cream.

Final Thoughts:

This strawberry cake is everything a homemade dessert should be, fresh, simple, and full of real flavor. Made without gelatin or additives, it celebrates the natural sweetness of strawberries in every bite. Its versatility makes it a winner for all kinds of diets, from egg-free to gluten-free and dairy-free options. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, it’s stunning yet effortlessly simple. And once you try it, there’s no doubt, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

Print