If you’ve never tasted a French strawberry cake, oh my goodness, you’re in for a treat! This cake is like a sweet embrace of fluffy sponge layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream—just divine! It’s one of those desserts that makes you feel like you’re sitting at a Parisian café, soaking in the ambiance of sweet indulgence. I remember the first time I made it; it was for a summer gathering, and as soon as I took that first bite, I was transported to a sunny day in France. The lightness of the cake paired with juicy strawberries was a hit, and everyone was asking for seconds! Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll want to whip it up for every occasion. It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup milk, preferably whole for richness
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature for better mixing
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, for that lovely aroma
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced and ready for layering
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled for whipping
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, to sweeten the cream
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that lovely rise and golden crust! While it’s heating up, grab your cake pans (I like to use two 9-inch round pans) and grease them with a little butter or non-stick spray. For an extra precaution, place a circle of parchment paper in the bottom of each pan—this helps your cakes come out easily without sticking. Trust me, you don’t want to risk losing any of that beautiful cake!
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Now, let’s get to the fun part—creaming the butter and sugar! In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You want it to look pale and airy—this is what gives your cake that wonderful texture! If you’re using a stand mixer, it’s super easy to let it do the work while you sip on some coffee.
Mixing the Batter
Next up, it’s time to add the eggs and vanilla extract. Crack those eggs in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air, making your cake even fluffier. Then, pour in that fragrant vanilla extract. Yum! Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Just be careful not to overmix—stop when everything is just combined, and you’ll have a perfectly soft batter!
Baking the Cake
Alright, it’s time to pour that beautiful batter into your prepared pans! Divide it evenly, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Now, pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center of each cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready! Oh, the smell of baking cake is just heavenly!
Cooling and Assembling
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes them easier to handle. Then, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Once cool, it’s time for the fun part—assembling! Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of whipped cream on top, and layer those luscious sliced strawberries. Add the second cake layer on top, and repeat with more cream and strawberries. Don’t worry if it’s a bit messy—that’s part of the charm!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, this French strawberry cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon, this cake has so many wonderful qualities that make it a must-try:
- Quick to make: With simple steps and just over an hour from start to finish, you’ll have a gorgeous cake ready to impress.
- Easy to assemble: No fancy techniques here—layering whipped cream and strawberries is as fun as it is delicious!
- Perfect for gatherings: It’s a showstopper at any party, bringing a touch of elegance that your friends and family will adore.
- Fresh and light: The fluffy sponge and juicy strawberries create a refreshing dessert that’s light on the palate.
- Customizable: Want to add a layer of strawberry jam or some fresh mint? Go for it! This cake is versatile and ready for your personal touch.
- Kid-friendly: It’s a hit with kids too! They’ll love the sweetness of the strawberries and the creamy layers.
Trust me, once you make this French strawberry cake, you’ll be craving it again and again! It’s simple yet sophisticated, and every bite is a taste of summer bliss.
Tips for Success
To make sure your French strawberry cake turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Use room temperature ingredients: This is a game changer! Having your eggs, butter, and milk at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and leads to a fluffier cake. Just take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
- Don’t skip sifting the flour: Sifting helps to aerate the flour and removes any lumps. This little step can make a big difference in the lightness of your cake.
- Whip the cream just right: When whipping the heavy cream, start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. This gives you more control and prevents overwhipping. Stop when you see stiff peaks forming—you want it creamy, not grainy!
- Chill your mixing bowl: If you have time, pop your mixing bowl for the cream in the refrigerator for a bit before whipping. A cold bowl helps the cream whip faster and stay fluffy.
- Layer with love: When assembling, take your time spreading the whipped cream and layering the strawberries. It not only makes the cake look beautiful, but it ensures each slice has that delightful balance of flavors!
- Let it chill: After assembling, if you can, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving. This helps everything set beautifully and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it’s extra refreshing!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning French strawberry cake that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While I believe in enjoying dessert without counting every calorie, it’s always nice to have an idea of what we’re indulging in. Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one slice of this delightful French strawberry cake:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoying a slice of this cake is totally worth it, especially when it’s made with love and fresh strawberries!
FAQ Section
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making this French strawberry cake ahead of time is a fantastic idea, especially if you have a special occasion coming up. You can bake the cakes a day in advance and let them cool completely. Just wrap each layer in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip up the cream and layer it with strawberries. This way, you can enjoy the assembly without the stress on the day of your event!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, or if you’re looking for a lighter option, there are a few alternatives you can use. One popular substitute is to whip together coconut cream and a bit of powdered sugar for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor. You can also use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little melted butter to mimic the richness of heavy cream, but keep in mind it won’t whip up as thick. For a lower-calorie option, Greek yogurt can work as a topping; just whip it a bit to make it creamy and add a little sweetness if desired!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers of this French strawberry cake is super easy! Just cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator, especially because of the whipped cream, which stays nice and fluffy that way. The cake should be good for about 3-4 days. If you think you won’t finish it in that time, you can also freeze individual slices! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying, and you’ll have a delightful taste of summer waiting for you!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your French strawberry cake, the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even more! Here are some delightful ideas to complement this light and luscious dessert:
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, balancing out the flavors perfectly. Whether you prefer a rich espresso or a smooth latte, it’s a classic combo!
- Herbal Tea: If you’re in the mood for something soothing, a cup of herbal tea—like chamomile or mint—can be a refreshing choice alongside the cake.
- Sparkling Water: For a light and bubbly option, serve the cake with some sparkling water infused with lemon or fresh berries. It’s a fun way to cleanse your palate!
- Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with seasonal berries, melons, and citrus can be a wonderful side dish, enhancing the fruity notes of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side adds a delightful contrast to the fresh strawberries and fluffy cake layers.
- Chocolate Sauce: If you want to get a little adventurous, drizzling some chocolate sauce over the cake can add a rich, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
These options not only complement the French strawberry cake but also create a lovely atmosphere for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings and find your perfect match!
Print
French Strawberry Cake: 7 Irresistible Tips for Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious French strawberry cake that features layers of fluffy sponge cake and fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Pour batter into prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Layer the cooled cakes with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill the cake before serving for a refreshing taste.
- You can add a layer of strawberry jam for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: french strawberry cake, strawberry dessert, cake recipes, french desserts