If you’re searching for an unforgettable treat that’s as stunning as it is scrumptious, look no further than this Strawberry Velvet Cake. This showstopper delivers a delicate crumb, vibrant berry flavor, and a swirl of creamy frosting that melts hearts at every celebration. Whether you’re baking for a summer birthday or simply craving that sweet burst of strawberry, this cake layers fresh taste with classic comfort in each delicious bite.

Strawberry Velvet Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Strawberry Velvet Cake comes together with simple ingredients that harmonize for a tender, aromatic, and beautifully hued masterpiece. Each element plays a key role in shaping the cake’s perfect rise, moist crumb, sweet berry pockets, and luscious finish.

All-purpose flour: Gives the cake its soft, sturdy base, and helps achieve that signature velvet texture.
Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners lift the batter, ensuring your cake bakes up light and fluffy.
Salt: Just a hint brings out all the cake’s natural flavors.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds creamy richness and binds everything together for a moist crumb.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake extra tender, even after a day or two.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with structure and browning.
Large eggs: Act as the backbone, providing lift and structure.
Vanilla & almond extract: These extracts amplify flavor, pairing beautifully with the strawberries.
Buttermilk: Lends tanginess and makes every bite extra moist.
Strawberry purée: Fresh or frozen berries transform into a purée that gives the cake real strawberry flavor.
Red or pink gel food coloring (optional): For extra rosy color that really turns heads at parties.
Finely chopped strawberries: Pop these in the batter for juicy, bright bites dotted throughout the cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Softened cream cheese and butter whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla for that classic, tangy finish.
Heavy cream or milk: Adjusts the frosting for the ideal spreadable consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Velvet Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans; this quick step ensures your Strawberry Velvet Cake layers release effortlessly and retain their shape. It’s a little act of love that sets you up for cake perfection.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend is the backbone of your cake, ensuring an even rise and that signature fine crumb with every forkful.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step isn’t just about mixing; it’s about trapping tiny air bubbles so the Strawberry Velvet Cake emerges luxuriously soft.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs, one by one, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The combination of vanilla with just a touch of almond offers an irresistible aroma and bridges the flavors of cream cheese and berry beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Buttermilk and Strawberry Purée

In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk with the strawberry purée, forming a blushing pink base that will keep the cake tangy and bursting with strawberry sweetness.

Step 6: Assemble the Batter

Add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with the buttermilk mixture—three additions of dry, two additions of wet—ending with dry. Stir just until everything is combined. This alternating method keeps the Strawberry Velvet Cake ultra-tender, never tough.

Step 7: Fold in Strawberries and Color

Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries and, if you like, a drop or two of red or pink gel food coloring. The berries create jammy surprises, while the coloring turns your cake that irresistible, plush pink.

Step 8: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then flip onto a wire rack to cool completely—this wait is worth it!

Step 9: Whip Up Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract and just enough cream to reach that dreamy, spreadable texture. This frosting truly defines the Strawberry Velvet Cake experience.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate

Once the cakes are completely cool, generously frost between the layers, around the sides, and over the top. Garnish with more fresh strawberries if you’re feeling fancy, then get ready for showering compliments!

How to Serve Strawberry Velvet Cake

Garnishes

Show off your Strawberry Velvet Cake with a crown of fresh strawberry halves fanned on top, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a scattering of edible flowers for luxe appeal. Each choice not only looks gorgeous but amplifies the berry-forward flavor.

Side Dishes

For a truly memorable dessert experience, serve with softly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a little bowl of extra sliced strawberries. The creamy, cool additions create a dreamy contrast with the cake’s pink velvet crumb.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Strawberry Velvet Cake into cupcakes for festive gatherings, stack layers with a ring of sliced berries between, or bake in a rectangular pan and cut into pretty squares for a picnic-perfect treat. Let your creativity take center stage—the possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Velvet Cake holds up beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cover any untouched slices or wrap the whole cake in plastic wrap, and store for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen, so it’s just as delightful on day two.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap unfrosted or frosted layers tightly in both plastic wrap and foil to lock in freshness. They’ll keep for up to two months—when ready to enjoy, let thaw in the fridge overnight before bringing to room temperature.

Reheating

While this cake is typically served chilled or at room temperature, you can gently bring individual slices to room temp before serving for optimal softness. Avoid microwaving to preserve the lush texture and vibrant color.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Velvet Cake without food coloring?

Absolutely! The cake will still be kissed with a lovely blush thanks to the strawberry purée. The food coloring is only for an extra pop of pink if you want a more vibrant look.

How do I turn fresh strawberries into purée?

Simply hull and chop your strawberries, then blend until smooth. If you need a smoother purée, strain out the seeds, but usually, a quick buzz in the blender is perfect for this Strawberry Velvet Cake.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Thaw frozen strawberries completely, then purée and chop as required. Drain any excess liquid before adding, so your Strawberry Velvet Cake stays perfectly balanced in moisture.

What’s the best way to ensure a moist cake?

Don’t overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, and use the full amount of oil and buttermilk. Both help the cake stay tender, light, and oh-so-moist even after storing.

Can I make this cake ahead for a party?

Definitely! Bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap tightly, and frost before serving. Chilling overnight helps the flavors mingle, making your Strawberry Velvet Cake even tastier when friends arrive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cake that’s as joyful to bake as it is to share, this Strawberry Velvet Cake is ready to win over your family and friends. Dive in, have fun decorating, and don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe—it’s a slice of pure berry bliss just waiting to be enjoyed!