Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

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Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

Introduction

Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is a delicious and colorful treat that will brighten up any occasion. This cake combines the rich taste of red velvet with sweet strawberry filling and creamy frosting. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy weekend dessert with family. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why Make This Recipe

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is special because it looks fantastic and tastes even better. The vibrant red color paired with fresh strawberries makes it a showstopper. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow. Making this cake creates great memories, especially when shared with loved ones.

How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

Making this cake is fun and rewarding. With just a bit of time and some simple ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that your friends and family will love.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp red food coloring
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to combine the dry ingredients.
  3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is smoothly combined.
  5. Divide the cake batter evenly between the two greased pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
  6. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the strawberry filling. In a saucepan, mix the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
  7. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
  8. Once the cakes have cooled, take one layer and spread a generous amount of the strawberry filling on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the cream cheese frosting.
  9. Garnish with fresh strawberries on top, and your beautiful Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is ready to serve!

How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

This cake is perfect for sharing! It’s best served in slices, garnished with extra fresh strawberries if desired. It makes a lovely centerpiece for any dessert table, especially for gatherings or celebrations. Everyone will love a slice!

How to Store Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to take it out a little before serving so it can come to room temperature for the best flavor!

Tips to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cake

  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps to create a smoother batter.
  • For an extra touch of flavor, use pure vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes!

Variation

You can tweak this recipe by adding chocolate chips to the batter or swapping strawberries for another fruit like raspberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with a different frosting, such as whipped cream or chocolate frosting.

FAQs

1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a few days before frosting.

2. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free Red Velvet Strawberry Cake.

3. How should I store the strawberry filling?
You can store the leftover strawberry filling in the fridge for up to a week, in an airtight container. Use it on pancakes or yogurt too!

Enjoy making this Red Velvet Strawberry Cake! It’s sure to bring smiles and sweet memories to your table.