Oh, Christmas time! There’s just something magical about the air filled with festive spirit, the twinkling lights, and the warm smell of baked goods wafting through the house. One of my absolute favorite holiday traditions is whipping up a Christmas Strawberry Cake. It’s not just any cake; it’s a vibrant, berry-filled delight that brings joy to the table and smiles to faces. Trust me, this cake is like a burst of sunshine on a cold winter day!
Every year, as I gather with family, we reminisce about our favorite moments, and this cake always makes an appearance. The combination of fresh strawberries nestled in a soft, buttery cake is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just need a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of cocoa, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Are you ready to create some delicious memories? Let’s dive into this festive recipe!
Ingredients for Christmas Strawberry Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream for topping
How to Prepare Christmas Strawberry Cake
Alright, let’s get those festive vibes going and bake up this delicious Christmas Strawberry Cake! I promise, the process is as fun as the end result. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning cake that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for that perfect bake, so don’t skip this step!
- Next, grab those two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them up with a bit of butter or cooking spray, then dust them with flour. This helps the cake come out smoothly once it’s baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes—trust me, this step really creates a lovely texture!
- Once that’s done, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix everything until it’s well combined and dreamy.
- Now, in another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This is your dry mix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your buttery mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mix. This helps keep everything nice and smooth. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
- Here comes the best part! Gently fold in those beautiful sliced strawberries. You want to see them swirl throughout the batter, adding that festive pop of color!
- Now, divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Give them a little shake to level them out, and they’re ready for the oven.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, take the cakes out and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial—let them cool properly so they don’t crumble when you frost!
- When they’re cool, it’s time to top your cake! Slather on some whipped cream and add a few extra strawberries for that gorgeous finish. Wow, just looking at it makes me so happy!
And voilà! Your Christmas Strawberry Cake is ready to shine on the holiday table. Enjoy every slice of this festive delight!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Strawberry Cake
- It’s a showstopper! The vibrant red strawberries make it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
- The flavor is absolutely delightful—each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and fruity, embodying the festive spirit.
- It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers! You don’t need to be a pro to impress your guests.
- This cake is incredibly versatile; it’s perfect for Christmas, but also great for birthdays, brunches, or any celebration!
- It’s a wonderful way to use fresh strawberries, bringing a taste of summer into your winter festivities.
- The whipped cream topping adds a light, airy texture that complements the moist cake beautifully.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Everyone from kids to grandparents will love this festive treat.
Tips for Success with Christmas Strawberry Cake
Now that you’re all set to bake this gorgeous Christmas Strawberry Cake, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your baking experience is a total success!
- Use ripe strawberries: This is super important! The flavor of your cake will skyrocket if you use sweet, perfectly ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red and fragrant. Trust me, they make all the difference!
- Don’t skip the cooling: After baking, let your cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent them from crumbling. If you’re too eager and try to frost them while they’re still warm, you might just end up with a messy situation!
- Be gentle when folding: When it comes to adding those lovely strawberries into the batter, fold them in gently. You want to maintain that fluffy texture you worked so hard to create. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, and we definitely want to avoid that!
- Check for doneness: Ovens can be tricky, so keep an eye on your cakes as they bake. Use a toothpick to check for doneness—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden!
- Experiment with flavors: If you want to mix things up, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of almond extract to the batter. It can elevate the flavor profile and add a unique twist!
- Make it ahead: If you’re prepping for a big holiday gathering, feel free to bake the cakes a day in advance. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap once cooled to keep them fresh. Frosting them the day of serving will give that delightful whipped cream a fresh, fluffy texture!
Remember, baking is all about having fun and enjoying the process! With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to create a Christmas Strawberry Cake that will wow your family and friends. Happy baking!
Variations of Christmas Strawberry Cake
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some delightful variations for your Christmas Strawberry Cake! These ideas are perfect for customizing the recipe to suit different tastes or add a fun twist to your holiday baking. Let’s dive in!
- Mixed Berry Bliss: Swap out some or all of the strawberries for a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. It adds a gorgeous medley of colors and flavors that scream festive!
- Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrusy kick. You can also drizzle a citrus glaze on top for extra zing!
- Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Mix in some cocoa powder (about 1/4 cup) into the dry ingredients for a delicious chocolate twist. The combination of chocolate and strawberries is simply divine!
- Almond Joy: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor. You could even add a handful of chopped almonds for an extra crunch!
- Peachy Keen: During summer months, try using fresh peaches instead of strawberries. The juicy sweetness of peaches will give your cake a delightful twist!
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
- Layered Surprise: For an impressive presentation, consider making a three-layer cake! Just double the recipe and stack the layers with whipped cream and strawberries in between.
These variations allow you to play with flavors and create a Christmas Strawberry Cake that feels uniquely yours. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and let your creativity shine! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Strawberry Cake
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While we all know that cake is a treat, it’s good to have an idea of what we’re enjoying. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of our delightful Christmas Strawberry Cake. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
So, there you have it! This cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a delightful addition to your holiday table that you can enjoy without too much guilt. Just remember, moderation is key, especially when it comes to indulging in sweet treats! Happy baking and happy eating!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your Christmas Strawberry Cake fresh and fabulous! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big if, because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store it so you can enjoy it later without losing any of that lovely flavor and texture.
First things first, once your cake has cooled completely, you’ll want to slice it into individual pieces. This makes it easier to grab a slice whenever you’re craving a sweet treat! Place the slices in an airtight container or you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps the moisture in and prevents any drying out. You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep it covered, or you might end up with a cake that tastes a bit like, well, your fridge!
If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can freeze those slices! Just wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy your Christmas Strawberry Cake at a later date—just like a little holiday surprise! It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. Just a little tip: if you want to warm it up a bit, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that fresh-baked feeling and make it even more delightful! Just be careful not to overdo it; you don’t want to end up with a hot mess!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your Christmas Strawberry Cake. Happy indulging!
FAQ About Christmas Strawberry Cake
Got questions about making the perfect Christmas Strawberry Cake? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my friendly advice to help you navigate your baking journey.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen ones can work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture to prevent the batter from getting too soggy. They might not be as vibrant as fresh, but they’ll still taste delicious!
What if I don’t have eggs?
No worries! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana. This will keep your cake moist and delicious while being egg-free. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
Can I add other flavors to the cake?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for a fun twist. You can also mix in some spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to give it a warm, seasonal flavor. The possibilities are endless!
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, you’re good to go! If it’s still wet, pop it back in for a few more minutes, but keep an eye on it!
What should I serve with the cake?
Oh, the options are endless! I love serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a few extra fresh strawberries on top. You could also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special treat!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You bet! This cake actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to frost it with whipped cream right before serving to keep that fresh taste!
How should I store any leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy a slice!
I hope these FAQs help clear up any uncertainties and get you excited to bake your own Christmas Strawberry Cake! Enjoy every moment of this festive baking adventure!
Print
Christmas Strawberry Cake: 7 Reasons to Fall in Love
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive cake made with fresh strawberries, perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool before removing from pans.
- Top with whipped cream and additional strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Can substitute with whipped topping for a lighter option.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Christmas Strawberry Cake