Prepare to be transported to a Parisian patisserie with this heavenly French Strawberry Cake that's about to revolutionize your dessert game! Imagine a delicate, buttery cake layered with fresh, juicy strawberries and a hint of vanilla - this isn't just a cake, it's a culinary experience that will make your friends and family think you've secretly trained in a French cooking school. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a luxurious dessert, this recipe is your golden ticket to baking glory.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Dessert
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cake cools, wash and slice the fresh strawberries. Reserve some whole strawberries for garnish.
- Once the cake is completely cool, slice horizontally into two layers.
- Optional: Spread a layer of whipped cream or pastry cream between the cake layers, then top with sliced strawberries.
- Arrange the remaining strawberries on top of the cake and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother, more even batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Fresh Strawberries are Key: Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the most vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and adding layers to prevent structural collapse.
- Optional Elegance Boost: Consider adding a light layer of whipped cream or pastry cream between cake layers for extra decadence.
- Powdered Sugar Finale: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a professional bakery touch and subtle sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
