Christmas Strawberry Cream Cake

This Christmas Strawberry Cream Cake is a festive, light, and fluffy dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. With its soft, moist cake base topped with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and a touch of greenery, it’s not only a delicious treat but also a beautiful centerpiece for your Christmas table. Simple to make yet full of flavor, this cake will surely become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh strawberries
• Green foliage for decoration
• Whipped cream

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the Eggs: Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
4. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
8. Cool and Decorate: Let the cake cool completely before decorating. Once cooled, spread whipped cream on top, and garnish with fresh strawberries and green foliage for a festive touch.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8 slices

Variations

• Fruit Variations: You can substitute the fresh strawberries with other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of fruits for a more colorful cake.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Add a touch of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a bit of lemon zest to the whipped cream to enhance the flavor.
• Spiced Cake: For a warmer, more festive flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream may soften over time, but the cake will still taste delicious.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unadorned cake (before adding the whipped cream and strawberries) for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw before decorating.
• Reheating: To enjoy the cake at room temperature, let it sit out for 30 minutes. If you prefer it warm, gently heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter, softer texture, or gluten-free flour if needed, though this may change the cake’s consistency.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh berries are recommended for the best decoration. If using frozen, thaw them first and pat them dry.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Decorate with whipped cream and strawberries just before serving.
4. Can I make this cake without eggs? Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water for each egg) or another egg replacement.
5. How do I make homemade whipped cream? To make your own whipped cream, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
6. What can I use for decoration instead of foliage? You can use mint leaves, edible flowers, or even small holiday-themed decorations like candy canes or sugar sprinkles.
7. Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey, though this may affect the cake’s texture and flavor.
8. Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies? Yes, this cake is nut-free as written, but always be sure to check the labels of your ingredients for possible cross-contamination if you’re concerned about allergies.
9. Can I add frosting instead of whipped cream? Yes, you can use a buttercream or cream cheese frosting if you prefer, but whipped cream provides a lighter, fluffier topping.
10. How can I make the cake more moist? To ensure a moist cake, be careful not to overbake it. You can also add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter for extra moisture.

Conclusion

The Christmas Strawberry Cream Cake is a wonderful holiday treat that combines the richness of a buttery cake with the freshness of strawberries and the smoothness of whipped cream. It’s simple to make but impressive enough to be the star of your Christmas dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want to enjoy a festive dessert with your family, this cake will surely spread cheer and delight!

Print