Introduction
This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is a luxurious combination of rich red velvet cake and sweet strawberries, creating the perfect balance of fluffiness, moisture, and indulgent flavor. With its vibrant red color, delicate cocoa flavor, and luscious strawberry-infused frosting, this cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion.
The buttermilk and butter in the cake ensure a soft and moist texture, while the cream cheese and fresh strawberry frosting provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness. Follow this step-by-step recipe to make a stunning homemade Strawberry Red Velvet Cake that will impress everyone.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Moist and Fluffy: Buttermilk keeps the cake incredibly soft.
✔ Perfect Balance of Cocoa and Strawberry: A mild chocolate flavor complements the fresh fruit.
✔ Rich, Creamy Frosting: Made with real strawberries and cream cheese.
✔ Visually Stunning: A bold red color makes it perfect for celebrations.
-Ingredients
For the Cake
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tbsp red food coloring
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
1 tsp white vinegar
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For Garnish
Fresh strawberry slices
White chocolate shavings (optional)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat butter, sugar, and vegetable oil until creamy and smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the vinegar, ensuring the batter is smooth.
-2. Bake the Cake
1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
-3. Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and fresh strawberry puree, mixing until fully incorporated.
-4. Assemble the Cake
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and white chocolate shavings (optional).
-5. Chill and Serve
1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
-Serving Suggestions
With Fresh Berries: Serve with extra strawberries on the side.
With a Glass of Milk or Coffee: Complements the sweetness perfectly.
With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: For an ultra-decadent dessert.
-Tips for the Best Strawberry Red Velvet Cake
✅ Use Gel Food Coloring – Provides a vibrant red color without affecting the texture.
✅ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Keeps the cake light and fluffy.
✅ Chill the Frosting Before Spreading – Makes it easier to apply smoothly.
✅ Use Fresh Strawberries for the Frosting – Adds natural sweetness and color.
-Variations to Try
Chocolate Strawberry Cake – Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Strawberry Red Velvet Cupcakes – Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Layered Strawberry Drizzle Cake – Drizzle strawberry sauce between the layers for extra moisture.
Vegan Version – Replace eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter and cream cheese.
-Storage and Shelf Life
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
Reheat or Serve Cold: Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.
-The Story Behind This Cake
The classic red velvet cake has been a staple of Southern baking for decades, known for its rich cocoa flavor and velvety texture. This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake adds a fruity twist, inspired by fresh strawberry shortcake and classic cream cheese frosting.
By blending the sweetness of strawberries with the mild cocoa undertones of red velvet, this cake becomes a dessert that’s both nostalgic and modern. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just when you’re craving something indulgent!
-Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Red Velvet Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its moist texture, sweet strawberries, and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat that will impress everyone.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a beautiful, delicious homemade cake that tastes as good as it looks!