Strawberry Drip Cake

The Strawberry Drip Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that features layers of moist, strawberry-infused cake frosted with luscious strawberry buttercream. Topped with a beautiful strawberry drizzle and fresh strawberries, this cake is perfect for celebrations or any sweet occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup strawberry puree

For the Strawberry Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 cup strawberry puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Drip and Decoration:
1/2 cup strawberry preserves, warmed
Fresh strawberries for decoration

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the strawberry puree until well combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the strawberry buttercream, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with a layer of strawberry buttercream. Repeat with the remaining layers.
10. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake.
11. Pour warmed strawberry preserves over the top edge of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
12. Decorate with fresh strawberries as desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 slices. The prep time is about 30 minutes, with a baking time of 25-30 minutes, making the total time around 2 hours.

Variations

• Chocolate Drip: Replace the strawberry preserves with chocolate ganache for a chocolate twist.
• Different Fruits: Substitute strawberry puree with raspberry or blueberry puree for a different flavor profile.
• Layered Flavors: Add lemon zest to the buttercream for a citrusy contrast to the strawberries.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s recommended to serve it cold without reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
2. What can I substitute for strawberry puree?
   You can use other fruit purees like raspberry or peach, or even store-bought fruit preserves.
3. How do I achieve a smooth buttercream?
   Make sure to beat the butter thoroughly before adding the powdered sugar, and ensure the sugar is sifted to prevent lumps.
4. Can I freeze the cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll last for up to 3 months.
5. What if I don’t have three cake pans?
   You can bake the layers one at a time, just be sure to allow the pan to cool completely between batches.
6. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
   Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
7. Can I use a different frosting?
   Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream are great alternatives to strawberry buttercream.
8. What kind of strawberries should I use for decoration?
   Fresh, ripe strawberries work best for a vibrant appearance and flavor.
9. How can I make the drip more visually appealing?
   Use a squeeze bottle to control the flow of the warm strawberry preserves for a cleaner drip effect.
10. Is this cake suitable for kids?
    Yes, it’s a fun and delicious cake that’s perfect for kids’ parties or gatherings!

Conclusion

The Strawberry Drip Cake is a visually stunning dessert that not only tastes incredible but also showcases the fresh flavors of strawberries. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings!

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