The Ultimate Strawberry Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a delightful fusion of two beloved dessert classics, combining the rich and velvety essence of red velvet cake with the vibrant and fruity sweetness of fresh strawberries. This tantalizing treat takes the best of both worlds, creating a unique and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings.

In this introduction, we’ll delve into the captivating world of Strawberry Red Velvet Cake, from its striking crimson hue to the luscious strawberry-infused flavors that make it a standout choice in the realm of cakes and desserts. Get ready to discover a slice of culinary magic that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.

What Is Strawberry Red Velvet Cake?

Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Red Velvet Cake, known for its striking red color and moist, tender crumb. In this variation, the traditional recipe is infused with the sweet and fruity flavor of fresh strawberries, creating a unique and vibrant dessert experience.

Key characteristics of Strawberry Red Velvet Cake include:

Strawberry Flavor: The star ingredient, fresh strawberries, is incorporated into the cake batter and often used to make a strawberry-flavored cream cheese frosting or filling. This infusion of strawberries adds a burst of fruity sweetness and a hint of tartness to the rich, cocoa-flavored cake.
Reddish-Pink Hue: While traditional Red Velvet Cake is known for its deep red color, Strawberry Red Velvet Cake typically takes on a pinkish-red hue due to the presence of strawberries. The exact shade can vary depending on the quantity of strawberries used.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Like its classic counterpart, Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is often paired with cream cheese frosting. This frosting complements the strawberry and cocoa flavors beautifully, offering a creamy and slightly tangy contrast.
Moist and Tender Texture: Just like a classic Red Velvet Cake, Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is characterized by its moist and tender crumb, thanks in part to the addition of buttermilk and vinegar in the batter.
Visual Appeal: The cake’s vibrant color and the contrast between the pinkish cake layers and creamy frosting make Strawberry Red Velvet Cake visually appealing. It’s often garnished with fresh strawberries or additional strawberry puree for an extra touch of elegance.

Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a wonderful dessert choice for those who appreciate a balance of sweet, fruity, and cocoa flavors. Whether enjoyed at weddings, birthdays, or any special occasion, this cake is sure to be a memorable and delightful treat for all dessert enthusiasts.

Why You Will Love Strawberry Red Velvet Cake Recipe?

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: Strawberry Red Velvet Cake combines the classic allure of red velvet with the bright and fruity sweetness of fresh strawberries. The result is a unique and delightful flavor combination that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Beautiful Visual Appeal: The cake’s pinkish-red layers and creamy frosting create a stunning and eye-catching dessert. It’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations and special occasions.
Moist and Tender Texture: Just like traditional red velvet cake, Strawberry Red Velvet Cake boasts a moist, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The buttermilk and vinegar in the recipe contribute to this delightful texture.
Cream Cheese Frosting: The classic pairing of cream cheese frosting with red velvet cake gets a fruity twist in this recipe. The creamy, tangy frosting complements the strawberry and cocoa flavors perfectly.
Versatility: Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is versatile and can be adapted to different preferences. You can adjust the intensity of the strawberry flavor, experiment with different frosting variations, or even add fresh strawberries between the cake layers for extra freshness and texture.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance and decadence to your festivities.
Seasonal Delight: If you’re fortunate to have access to fresh, ripe strawberries during strawberry season, this cake is a wonderful way to showcase their flavors. It’s a taste of summer that can be enjoyed year-round.
Homemade Delight: Baking this cake from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a cake that’s fresh and made with love.
Memorable Dessert: The unique combination of flavors and the captivating appearance of Strawberry Red Velvet Cake make it a dessert that guests will remember long after the last slice has been enjoyed.

In summary, a Strawberry Red Velvet Cake recipe offers a delightful and delicious dessert experience that brings together the best of classic red velvet and the natural sweetness of strawberries. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or simply a lover of great cakes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients For Strawberry Red Velvet Cake

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed (strained to remove seeds)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

Additional fresh strawberries for decoration

Please note that the quantities provided are general guidelines and can be adjusted based on your preferences. For instance, you can add more or less red food coloring to achieve the desired shade of pink or red for your cake.

Now, let’s move on to the detailed formula for making Strawberry Red Velvet Cake based on these ingredients.

How To Make Strawberry Red Velvet Cake

For the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined. Set aside.
In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until these wet ingredients are well incorporated.
Gradually add the wet ingredients mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until you have a smooth batter.
Gently fold in the fresh strawberry puree until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened butter. Beat until they are well blended and have a smooth consistency.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until the frosting is creamy and reaches your desired sweetness.

Assembling the Cake:

Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one of the layers.
Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer.
Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
If desired, decorate the cake with additional fresh strawberries for a beautiful finishing touch.
Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Red Velvet Cake!

This delightful cake combines the rich, cocoa-infused allure of red velvet with the fruity sweetness of strawberries, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions or any time you’re craving something extraordinary.

How To Serve Strawberry Red Velvet Cake

Serving Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a delightful experience, and it’s essential to do so with care to preserve its beauty and flavor. Here’s how to serve Strawberry Red Velvet Cake:

1. Pre-slice and Presentation:

Before serving, it’s a good idea to pre-slice the cake. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut slices evenly. This ensures that each serving is visually appealing and easy to handle.
Arrange the pre-sliced pieces on a serving platter or individual dessert plates, leaving space between each slice.

2. Garnish:

If you have additional fresh strawberries, consider using them as a garnish. Place a fresh strawberry slice or whole berry on top of each cake slice or decorate the platter with strawberries for an extra touch of elegance.

3. Chilled or Room Temperature:

Decide whether you want to serve the cake chilled or at room temperature. Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is often delightful when served slightly chilled, as the cream cheese frosting sets nicely, but it can also be served at room temperature for a softer frosting texture.

4. Utensils:

Provide dessert forks or cake servers alongside the cake for easy serving.

5. Pairings:

Strawberry Red Velvet Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Offer coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. Alternatively, consider serving it with a refreshing strawberry lemonade or champagne for a more celebratory touch.

6. Individual Preferences:

If you’re serving a crowd, inquire about individual preferences regarding slice sizes and frosting amounts. Some guests may prefer smaller slices, while others may enjoy a more generous portion of cream cheese frosting.

7. Enjoy the Moment:

Encourage your guests to savor each bite and take in the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience worth savoring.

By following these serving tips, you can enhance the enjoyment of your Strawberry Red Velvet Cake and make it a memorable part of any occasion or gathering.

How To Store Strawberry Red Velvet Cake

Properly storing Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is crucial to maintain its freshness and deliciousness. Here’s how to store your cake:

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days):

If you plan to enjoy the cake within a day or two, follow these steps:

Cover: Cover the entire cake or individual cake slices with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that it’s tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in.
Refrigerate: Store the wrapped cake in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps preserve the freshness of the cake and prevents the cream cheese frosting from spoiling.

Long-Term Storage (Beyond 2 Days):

For longer storage or if you’ve made the cake in advance, follow these steps:

Wrap and Freeze: If you need to store the Strawberry Red Velvet Cake for an extended period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss.
Optional Airtight Container: You can place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag for added protection against freezer burn.
Label and Date: To keep track of freshness, label the package with the date of freezing.
Freezing Time: Strawberry Red Velvet Cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality.

Thawing and Serving from the Freezer:

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Strawberry Red Velvet Cake:

Thaw Gradually: Transfer the wrapped cake from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw gradually for several hours or overnight. Gradual thawing prevents condensation and helps maintain the cake’s texture.
Serve Cold: Serve the Strawberry Red Velvet Cake cold, directly from the refrigerator. It will taste just as delicious as when it was freshly made.
Optional Refreshing: If you find that the cake has slightly dried out after freezing and thawing, you can brush it lightly with a simple syrup or a flavored liqueur before serving to add moisture and flavor.

Remember that while freezing is an effective way to extend the shelf life of Strawberry Red Velvet Cake, it may alter the texture slightly. However, when thawed and served properly, it can still be a delightful treat for you and your guests.

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Tips And Tricks For Strawberry Red Velvet Cake

Creating a perfect Strawberry Red Velvet Cake requires some attention to detail and a few helpful tips and tricks to make the process smoother. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

For the Cake:

Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe and flavorful fresh strawberries for the best strawberry flavor in the cake. Avoid using overripe or underripe strawberries.
Strawberry Puree: Ensure your strawberry puree is smooth and free from seeds by straining it. You want to capture the strawberry flavor without any unwanted texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow ingredients like eggs and buttermilk to come to room temperature before using them. Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly and create a better cake texture.
Proper Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake.
Cake Layers: Level your cake layers if they have domed during baking. This ensures a flat surface for easy assembly.
Even Slicing: When slicing the cake into layers, use a long, sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to ensure even and smooth layers.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Softened Cream Cheese and Butter: Ensure that both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy frosting. Softening for at least 30 minutes at room temperature is recommended.
Gradual Sugar Addition: Add the powdered sugar gradually while mixing the frosting to prevent lumps and achieve a silky consistency.
Adjust Consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, you can add a small amount of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Assembly and Decoration:

Chilled Cake Layers: For easier assembly and frosting, it’s often helpful to chill the cake layers in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before applying the frosting.
Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting called a “crumb coat” to the cake and refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes. This initial layer helps lock in any loose crumbs, making it easier to achieve a smooth final coat of frosting.
Smooth Frosting: Use an offset spatula or a bench scraper to create a smooth and even surface when frosting the cake. Dip the spatula in warm water and wipe it clean periodically to achieve a smoother finish.
Fresh Strawberry Garnish: Garnish the cake with fresh strawberries just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. You can halve or slice the strawberries for a decorative touch.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-prepared to create a stunning and delicious Strawberry Red Velvet Cake that will impress your family and guests. Enjoy the baking process and the delightful results!

FAQs And Troubleshooting

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones for the cake?

While fresh strawberries are preferred for the cake’s flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Thaw and drain them before pureeing to remove excess liquid.

2. Why is my cake dry or crumbly?

Overbaking is a common reason for a dry or crumbly cake. Ensure you follow the recommended baking time and use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet.

3. How do I prevent my cake layers from sticking to the pans?

Grease and flour the cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also use a baking spray with flour for added convenience.

4. Why did my cream cheese frosting turn runny or lumpy?

Cream cheese frosting can become runny if the cream cheese or butter is too soft, or if too much liquid is added. To fix runny frosting, refrigerate it for a while to firm up. To fix lumpy frosting, ensure the cream cheese and butter are well softened, and gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.

5. My cake layers have a slight greenish hue. What happened?

A greenish tint can occur if the baking soda interacts with natural compounds in the cocoa powder. To prevent this, use natural cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed) and add a touch of lemon juice or vinegar to counteract the reaction.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers in advance, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate for a day or freeze for longer storage. Frost and decorate the cake closer to the serving time for the freshest appearance.

7. Why does my frosting taste too sweet?

If your frosting is overly sweet, you can balance it by adding a pinch of salt or a small amount of lemon juice to counteract the sweetness. Taste and adjust as needed.

8. Can I make this cake without food coloring?

While the red food coloring is traditional for red velvet cakes, you can make a variation known as “Pink Velvet Cake” by omitting the food coloring or using natural alternatives like beet juice or raspberry puree for a pink hue.

9. My cake layers are uneven. How can I level them?

Use a long serrated knife or a cake leveler to gently trim the top of the cake layers to create an even surface for stacking and frosting.

10. Why did my cake sink in the center?

Cake sinking can happen due to various reasons, including overmixing the batter, opening the oven door too early during baking, or underbaking. To avoid sinking, follow the recipe closely and use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.

By addressing these FAQs and applying the troubleshooting tips, you’ll be better equipped to overcome any challenges and achieve a beautiful and delicious Strawberry Red Velvet Cake.

Nutrition Information

The nutrition information for Strawberry Red Velvet Cake can vary depending on factors like serving size and specific recipe variations. Here’s a general estimate of the nutrition content for one slice of Strawberry Red Velvet Cake (based on an average-sized slice):

Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per slice.
Total Fat: Around 18-20 grams, primarily from the oil in the cake and the fat in the cream cheese frosting.
Saturated Fat: Typically 5-7 grams, mainly from the cream cheese frosting.
Cholesterol: About 45-60 milligrams, primarily from eggs and cream cheese.
Sodium: Roughly 250-300 milligrams, mainly from baking soda and any salt added.
Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50 grams, primarily from the cake’s flour and sugar.
Dietary Fiber: Minimal, typically less than 1 gram.
Sugars: About 35-40 grams, mainly from granulated sugar and the natural sugars in strawberries.
Protein: Approximately 3-4 grams, primarily from eggs and cream cheese.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the specific recipe used, the size of the cake slices, and any variations in ingredients or frosting thickness. Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a dessert, so it tends to be higher in sugar and fat content. Enjoy it in moderation as a delightful treat for special occasions or celebrations.