If you adore fresh, fruity desserts that feel both elegant and homey, you are going to fall head over heels for this French Strawberry Cake Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of tender cake infused with the bright, juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries, perfectly moist thanks to a touch of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This classic yet simple cake feels like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for gathering with friends or treating yourself to something special that’s surprisingly easy to make.

French Strawberry Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this French Strawberry Cake Recipe comes from ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From soft butter that creates richness to fresh strawberries lending a pop of color and natural sweetness, every item is essential for that authentic taste.

1⅓ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure to keep the cake light yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy berries.
1¼ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle lift, ensuring a fluffy crumb that’s not too dense.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness wonderfully.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, making the cake tender and buttery without overpowering.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and, when sprinkled on top, creates a delightful crackly finish.
2 large eggs: Help bind everything together and add to the cake’s soft texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, inviting aroma and depth.
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender with a slight tang that complements the strawberries.
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped: The star ingredient that provides juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful natural color.

How to Make French Strawberry Cake Recipe

Step 1: Get Everything Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper—this keeps the cake from sticking and makes removing it a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your rising agent is evenly distributed, giving you a uniformly tender crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for aerating the batter and creating that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to fill the batter with a warm, fragrant note that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

Step 5: Combine the Batter

Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can toughen the cake, so patience is key here.

Step 6: Fold in Fresh Strawberries

Carefully fold the chopped strawberries into the batter using a spatula. This gentle method keeps the berries intact and evenly distributed, so you get delicious bites in every slice.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle extra granulated sugar on top to add that iconic crackly finish. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it warm or at room temperature with your favorite whipped cream, ice cream, or just a dusting of powdered sugar to keep things delightfully simple.

How to Serve French Strawberry Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of lightly whipped cream can transform your French Strawberry Cake Recipe from everyday to extraordinary in seconds. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving gives a delicate, snow-kissed look that feels festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this strawberry cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a refreshing mint-infused fruit salad. These sides enhance the cake’s natural freshness without competing, making your dessert experience perfectly balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in cute glass jars layered with extra whipped cream and strawberries for a modern twist. Or dust with edible rose petals for a romantic touch, especially lovely during spring or summer gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your cooled cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 3 days. The strawberries stay juicy, and the cake maintains its tender crumb beautifully.

Freezing

This French Strawberry Cake Recipe freezes well if you decide to prepare it in advance. Slice it before freezing so you can thaw just the portions you need. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then gently heat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It’s also delightful served cold right from the fridge, especially if topped with chilled cream or ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe, as frozen berries can release extra moisture and make the cake soggy. If frozen is your only option, thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute that keeps the cake moist with a slight tang. You can also try crème fraîche or buttermilk, but keep the quantity the same to maintain the right texture.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to mimic wheat flour’s texture.

Is this recipe suitable for a layer cake?

Absolutely! You can double the recipe and bake in two pans for layers. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the cakes for doneness.

Final Thoughts

This French Strawberry Cake Recipe is truly a joy to make and share, packing delicious simplicity into every bite. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply because strawberries are in season, this cake brings a little bit of French charm and a whole lot of love to your table. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did.