
Decadent Red Velvet Strawberry Cake: A Show-Stopping Dessert Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Red Velvet Strawberry Cake, a perfect blend of vibrant red velvet layers, luscious cream cheese frosting, and juicy strawberries. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a crowd-pleaser for any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Frosting:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Decoration:
- 1 ½ cups (300g) fresh strawberries, halved
- ¼ cup (60ml) strawberry jam or glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar.
- Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
Step 5: Decorate
- Arrange halved strawberries over the top of the cake.
- Drizzle strawberry jam or glaze over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures the batter mixes evenly and the frosting is creamy.
- Level the Cake Layers: For a more professional look, trim the tops of the cake layers to make them even.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?
A: Yes! Whipped cream or chocolate buttercream also pair beautifully with this cake.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and use as a substitute.
Q: Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
A: Definitely! Bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic until ready to frost.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is the perfect combination of flavor and elegance. The moist, rich layers of red velvet cake, silky cream cheese frosting, and fresh strawberry topping make it the ultimate dessert for celebrations and gatherings.