Easy Strawberry Dream Cake

Name: Easy Strawberry Dream Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; ½ cup strawberry puree (from fresh or frozen strawberries); ½ cup freeze-dried strawberry powder (optional, for extra flavor); Few drops pink food coloring (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup strawberry puree; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

This Strawberry Dream Cake is the ultimate strawberry lover’s dessert! Made with fresh strawberry puree, a light and fluffy cake base, and a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, every bite is bursting with real strawberry flavor. A secret freezer trick keeps the cake extra moist, making it the perfect treat for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion!

Strawberry Dream Cake: A Slice of Heaven in Every Bite

Have you ever bitten into a cake so soft, fruity, and dreamy that it felt like pure bliss?

That’s exactly what this Strawberry Dream Cake delivers—a melt-in-your-mouth texture, bursting with real strawberry flavor, and topped with the creamiest frosting you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because, this cake will make any occasion feel extra special!

Why is this the ultimate Strawberry Dream Cake?

Unlike other recipes that rely on artificial flavors, this one is packed with real strawberries in every layer. I use both fresh and freeze-dried strawberries to intensify the flavor—no bland bites here!

Plus, my secret “freezer trick” locks in moisture, ensuring a soft, tender crumb that stays fresh longer.

A Family Favorite with a Sweet Backstory

The first time I made this cake was for my daughter’s birthday. She requested a “pink cake that tastes like summer,” so I experimented with pureed strawberries, freeze-dried powder, and a hint of vanilla—and it was an instant hit! Now, it’s a must-have at every family gathering.

For the best strawberries to use in baking, check out the California Strawberry Commission’s Guide. They share the best tips on choosing the sweetest berries!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

✔ Pure Strawberry Goodness – No artificial flavors, just fresh, juicy strawberries.
✔ Moist & Tender Texture – Thanks to the freezer trick, each bite is soft and fluffy.
✔ Creamy, Dreamy Frosting – A luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting that pairs perfectly with the cake.
✔ Customizable – Want it gluten-free? Keto-friendly? I’ve got easy swaps for you!

Is this cake healthy?

While it’s an indulgence, each slice contains antioxidants from strawberries, along with calcium and protein from the dairy. Want to lighten it up? Swap half the sugar for a natural alternative or use Greek yogurt in place of some butter.

Let’s Get Baking!

Are you ready to bake the most irresistible Strawberry Dream Cake? Grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the recipe!

Don’t forget to comment below if you try it—I’d love to hear how it turns out! And if you share it on social media, tag me so I can see your beautiful creations.

Ingredients and Equipment for the Perfect Strawberry Dream Cake

Ever wondered what makes a Strawberry Dream Cake so irresistibly soft, flavorful, and dreamy? Is it the fresh strawberries, the perfectly balanced sweetness, or the velvety smooth frosting? It’s all of that—and a little kitchen magic!

This recipe has been a family favorite for generations in my home. My grandmother used to make this cake every summer, using handpicked strawberries from her backyard garden. The scent of fresh berries and vanilla would fill the kitchen, making it impossible to wait until dessert time. And let me tell you—one bite, and you’re in strawberry heaven!

But before we dive into the baking process, let’s talk about the most crucial ingredients and tools that will make your cake truly stand out.

Ingredients: The Heart of Your Strawberry Dream Cake

Fresh, natural flavors are key to achieving that sweet, tangy, and creamy balance in this cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake Layers

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – For the perfect cake structure. Want a gluten-free option? Swap with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Enhances sweetness while keeping the cake light and fluffy.
1 tablespoon baking powder – The secret to a soft, airy texture.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances flavor.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and a tender crumb.
½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake extra moist.
4 large eggs – Ensures structure and richness.
1 cup fresh strawberry puree – This is the game-changer! It gives the cake an intense, natural strawberry flavor. (Learn how to pick the juiciest strawberries with this California Strawberry Guide.)
½ cup buttermilk – Enhances tenderness and gives a slight tang for balance.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Adds depth to the strawberry flavors.
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) – A hint of citrus boosts the strawberry aroma.

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened – The key to a silky, rich frosting.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
3 ½ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
¼ cup freeze-dried strawberry powder or 2 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree – For intense strawberry flavor and color.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the creamy, fruity taste.
1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – Adjusts the consistency to make it perfectly spreadable.

For Decoration (Optional but Highly Recommended!)

Fresh sliced strawberries
White chocolate shavings
Edible flowers for a fancy touch

Must-Have Equipment: Set Yourself Up for Success

The right tools can make all the difference between a good cake and a bakery-quality masterpiece! Here’s what you’ll need:

Two 9-inch round cake pans – Ensures even baking. (Pro tip: Grease and line with parchment paper to prevent sticking!)
Mixing bowls (large and medium-sized) – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer – Creams the butter and sugar effortlessly for a fluffy texture.
Rubber spatula – Perfect for folding ingredients without deflating the batter.
Measuring cups and spoons – Precision matters in baking!
Wire cooling rack – Helps prevent soggy cake layers.
Offset spatula – Makes frosting application smooth and professional.

If you’re new to cake baking, understanding the science behind perfect cake textures can be a game-changer. Check out this Baking Guide from Serious Eats for expert insights!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Is this cake healthy? Well, let’s be honest—it’s a treat! But if you’re mindful of your intake, here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: 350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Sugar: 30g
Fiber: 1g

Want a healthier twist? Swap half of the sugar with honey or use Greek yogurt instead of some of the butter for a lighter texture.

Ready to Bake? Let’s Get Started!

Now that you have everything prepped, it’s time to bring this dream cake to life! Head over to the next section for a step-by-step baking guide.

Don’t forget to share your creations! If you make this cake, tag me on social media or leave a comment below—I’d love to see how yours turns out! 🍓🎂✨

Step-by-Step Preparation for the Ultimate Strawberry Dream Cake

Ever wondered what makes a Strawberry Dream Cake irresistibly moist, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor? The secret is in the ingredients, technique, and a little love. Let’s dive into each step so you can create a show-stopping dessert that will have your family begging for more!

1. Preparing the Strawberry Puree

Is fresh or frozen better? Fresh strawberries always win for natural sweetness, but frozen works too—just thaw and drain well!

Wash and hull about 2 cups of fresh strawberries.
Blend until smooth or mash for a chunkier texture.
Reduce over low heat for 10-15 minutes to concentrate flavor. This intensifies the natural sweetness without needing extra sugar!
Let the puree cool completely before using it in your batter.

2. Baking the Cake Layers

Is overmixing a mistake? Yes! Overmixing creates a dense cake instead of a light, airy texture.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
Sift together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.
In another bowl, cream 1 cup butter and 1 ¾ cups sugar until light and fluffy.
Add 4 eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract and the cooled strawberry puree.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with ½ cup of buttermilk.
Divide batter evenly and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Pro Tip: Wrap the warm cakes in plastic wrap and freeze for 15 minutes—this locks in moisture for the ultimate softness!

3. Making the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Is cream cheese frosting better than buttercream? Absolutely! The tanginess balances the sweetness beautifully.

Beat 8 oz cream cheese and ½ cup butter until fluffy.
Gradually add 3 ½ cups powdered sugar and mix well.
Stir in 1 tbsp freeze-dried strawberry powder or ¼ cup strawberry puree for that dreamy pink hue!
Optional: Add 2 tbsp heavy cream for extra smoothness.

4. Assembling Your Cake

Is layering necessary? If you want an Instagram-worthy cake, yes! It also distributes flavor evenly.

Trim cake tops for even layers.
Spread frosting generously between layers and over the entire cake.
Use a spatula or piping bag for a smooth or decorative finish.
Garnish with fresh strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or edible flowers!

5. Final Touches & Serving

Your Strawberry Dream Cake is now ready to impress! But wait—how do you store it?

Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze for up to a month for a make-ahead treat.
Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Bonus: Nutritional Information

Want a healthier version? Swap sugar for honey, use Greek yogurt instead of butter, or go gluten-free with almond flour!

Per serving (based on 12 slices):

Calories: 380
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 5g

Don’t Miss These Delish recipes:

Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe: So Easy
Frozen Strawberry Dessert: Easy, Refreshing, & Delicious
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Tips and Variations

Expert Tips for a Perfect Strawberry Dream Cake

Ever baked a cake that looked amazing but was dry on the inside? Is there a fix? Yes! The secret is the “freezer trick”—right after baking, wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze them for 30 minutes. This locks in moisture and keeps your cake irresistibly soft!

Another game-changer? Room temperature ingredients. Always let your butter, eggs, and milk sit out for at least 30 minutes before baking. This ensures a smooth, even batter—no clumps or overmixing!

For an extra burst of flavor, try using freeze-dried strawberries in your batter. Unlike fresh strawberries, they won’t add excess moisture, keeping your cake light and fluffy. You can find more on the science of perfect baking in this guide from Serious Eats.

Recipe Variations to Try

Want to make your Strawberry Dream Cake even more exciting? Is there a way to customize it? Absolutely! Try one of these delicious twists:

Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the frosting, and replace butter with vegan butter for a rich, creamy texture.
Chocolate-Strawberry Twist: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the batter and top with a chocolate ganache drizzle for a decadent fusion.
Healthier Alternative: Reduce sugar by 30% and replace half the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed option.

Why My Family Loves This Recipe

Growing up, my grandmother would make this Strawberry Dream Cake for every birthday in our house. The smell of fresh strawberries would fill the kitchen, and we’d sneak spoonfuls of frosting before she even finished decorating! Is there a nostalgic recipe in your family too? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

Do you have a favorite way to personalize this Strawberry Dream Cake? Is there a secret ingredient you swear by? Leave a comment below! And if you make this cake, snap a pic and tag me on social media!

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions for the Best Strawberry Dream Cake

Have you ever baked a strawberry cake only to find it dry the next day? Let’s fix that! The key to keeping your Strawberry Dream Cake as soft and flavorful as the moment it came out of the oven is proper storage.

🥶 How to Store Strawberry Dream Cake and Keep It Fresh

Is it better to store the cake in the fridge or at room temperature? It depends!

If you plan to enjoy it within 24 hours, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its moist texture without drying out.
Need it to last longer? Refrigerate it! Since the cake has a cream cheese frosting, storing it in the fridge is best. Just cover it with plastic wrap or place it in a cake keeper to prevent it from absorbing odors.
For ultimate freshness, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving—this helps soften the frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

❄️ Can You Freeze Strawberry Dream Cake?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing this cake is a great way to make it ahead for special occasions. Here’s how to do it right:

For whole cakes: Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
For slices: Wrap individual pieces and store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever a craving hits!
Defrosting tip: Move the cake to the fridge overnight or let slices thaw at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving.

💡 Want to learn the science behind cake storage? Check out this Serious Eats’ Baking Guide for expert insights!

🍰 Making Strawberry Dream Cake Ahead of Time

Ever wonder if you can prep this cake days in advance for a stress-free celebration? Good news—you can!

Make the cake layers ahead: Bake them up to 2 days in advance, wrap them tightly, and store at room temperature or in the fridge.
Prepare the frosting early: The strawberry cream cheese frosting can be made 1–2 days ahead and kept in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a quick mix before spreading it on the cake!
Assemble the cake on the day of serving for the freshest flavor and best texture.

The first time I made Strawberry Dream Cake, my kids couldn’t wait for it to cool before digging in! I learned the hard way that proper storage is everything—because the next day, the leftovers were dry and crumbly. Now, I always use the freezer trick and keep slices stored properly so every bite stays soft, moist, and bursting with strawberry flavor.

Nutritional Information

Have you ever wondered if Strawberry Dream Cake can fit into a balanced diet? The answer is yes—but like all indulgent treats, moderation is key! This cake isn’t just about irresistible flavor; it’s also packed with real strawberries, which are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.

Why We Love This Cake (and You Will Too!)

Growing up, my grandmother used to make a version of this Strawberry Dream Cake every summer. She always said, “A little sweetness makes life brighter!” And she was right! But if you’re watching your sugar intake, there are ways to lighten it up without sacrificing taste.

For example, swapping traditional sugar with honey or coconut sugar can provide a more natural sweetness. If you’re looking for expert baking tips, check out Serious Eats’ Baking Guide for pro-level insights on healthier baking choices!

Strawberry Dream Cake Nutrition Breakdown (Per Slice)

Each serving (based on a 12-slice cake) contains:

Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g (with variations based on frosting choice)
Fiber: 2g (thanks to fresh strawberries!)
Sugar: 35g (can be reduced with natural sweeteners)

How Can You Make It Healthier?

Want to make a lighter version? Here are some easy swaps:
✔ Reduce sugar by using monk fruit or stevia.
✔ Swap all-purpose flour for almond or oat flour for added fiber.
✔ Use Greek yogurt in place of some butter for a protein boost.
✔ Opt for a whipped Greek yogurt frosting instead of traditional cream cheese frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Strawberry Dream Cake is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, a family gathering, or just because you love strawberries, there’s always something new to learn! Below are answers to the most common (and important) questions to help you bake the perfect cake every time.

1. What is the secret to making Strawberry Dream Cake extra moist?

The secret is fresh strawberry puree and a little trick I swear by—the freezer method! Right after baking, wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap and pop them into the freezer for 30 minutes. This locks in moisture, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

2. Is frozen or fresh strawberries better for this cake?

Fresh is always best! But if strawberries aren’t in season, frozen strawberries work too. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using them in the batter or frosting.

3. Why does my Strawberry Dream Cake turn out dense instead of fluffy?

A dense cake usually means you overmixed the batter. Be gentle when folding the dry and wet ingredients together—a few lumps are okay! Also, double-check that you’re using the right amount of flour (spoon and level, don’t scoop).

4. Is this cake healthy? What’s the nutritional breakdown?

While this cake is definitely a treat, you can make it healthier! Each slice has approximately 320 calories, with 15g of fat, 42g of carbs, and 3g of protein. Want a lighter version? Swap Greek yogurt for butter and use honey instead of sugar.

5. Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! A hand mixer or even a whisk will do the job—just prepare for an arm workout. When making the frosting, use a hand mixer for a smooth, fluffy texture.

6. Is there a way to make this Strawberry Dream Cake dairy-free?

Butter → Coconut oil
Milk → Almond or oat milk
Cream cheese → Vegan cream cheese or blended cashews
You won’t even miss the dairy!

7. How long does this cake last, and how should I store it?

If kept in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

8. Can I use this recipe for cupcakes instead of a full cake?

Yes! Just reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes and fill cupcake liners 3/4 full. They turn out just as dreamy!

9. What frosting pairs best with this cake?

This cake shines with strawberry cream cheese frosting. However, if you want a lighter touch, try whipped cream frosting—here’s an amazing frosting recipe collection for inspiration!

10. Can I add other flavors to this cake?

Yes! Try these fun variations:
Lemon zest for a citrusy kick
Chocolate chips for a choco-strawberry combo
Almond extract for a nutty depth

Tried this recipe? Tag me on social media or leave a comment below—I’d love to see your version of Strawberry Dream Cake! If you have any baking questions, drop them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help. 🍓💖