Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and conquer the challenges of baking at high elevations? This Strawberry Spoon Cake is not just a dessert – it's a delectable masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a heavenly, pudding-like treat that will make your guests swoon! Perfect for those living in mountainous regions or anyone looking to create a show-stopping dessert that's both rustic and elegant.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Due to high altitude, reduce the baking temperature by 25 degrees to prevent over-browning.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the strawberries by washing, hulling, and slicing them. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of sugar over the strawberries and let them macerate for 15 minutes to release their natural juices.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake at high altitude.
- Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. At high altitude, this helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juice evenly over the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. At high altitude, baking times may vary, so insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes. The cake will continue to set during this time.
- Serve warm, using a spoon to scoop out portions. The cake should have a soft, pudding-like texture typical of a spoon cake.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always reduce your oven temperature by 25 degrees to prevent over-browning and ensure even baking.
- Mixing Technique: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, especially at high altitudes.
- Moisture is Key: The maceration process for strawberries helps create extra juiciness and intensifies the fruit's natural sweetness.
- Doneness Check: Use the toothpick method carefully. At high altitudes, baking times can be slightly unpredictable, so start checking a few minutes early.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to rest in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes. This helps the cake set and develop its signature spoon-friendly texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm for the most luxurious experience, and don't be afraid to add a dollop of whipped cream or extra fresh strawberries for that Instagram-worthy presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
