Name: Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 5 h 35 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, rinsed and hulled; 2 and 1/2 cups cake flour (295g), spooned & leveled; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170g), softened to room temperature; 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350g); 5 large egg whites, at room temperature; 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (80g), at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk (120ml), at room temperature; 1/2 cup reduced strawberry puree (about 135g); Optional: 1–2 drops red or pink food coloring; 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (about 25g); 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese (226g), softened to room temperature; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g), softened to room temperature; 3 cups confectioners’ sugar (360g); 1 tablespoon whole milk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt, to taste

If you’re craving a dessert that captures the fresh, bright flavor of strawberries in every bite, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe blends moist cake layers with a luscious strawberry-infused cream cheese frosting that’s simply irresistible.

A round cake with two visible layers sits on a white cake stand over a white marbled surface. The top is coated with thick, light pink frosting that has a creamy texture with small red specks. Two whole strawberries with green leaves are placed close together at the center of the cake. One slice is slightly separated, showing a darker pink or red cake layer under the frosting. The frosting on the side and top is spread in soft, swirling patterns. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can’t get enough of the way the reduced strawberry puree adds real fruit flavor deep into the cake, making every slice taste like fresh-picked berries turned into magic. Plus, the cream cheese frosting with freeze-dried strawberries takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Real strawberry flavor: Using both fresh and freeze-dried strawberries makes this cake bursting with authentic berry goodness.
Moist, tender crumb: The addition of sour cream and carefully folded reduced puree keeps the cake incredibly soft and fluffy.
Creamy, tangy frosting: Strawberry cream cheese frosting adds a rich, smooth finish with just the perfect hint of sweetness.
Perfect for any special occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or just because, this showstopper dessert will impress everyone.

Ingredients & Why They Work

To make this strawberry cake sing, you’ll want to use the freshest strawberries you can find and some key pantry staples that work together to create the perfect texture and flavor. Here are the main ingredients I rely on, along with why they’re so important.

Flat lay of a small heap of fresh hulled strawberries, a small mound of fine cake flour, a few whole uncracked brown eggs, a slab of softened unsalted butter, a small white ceramic bowl of granulated sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of sour cream, a small white ceramic bowl of smooth red strawberry puree, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, a block of softened cream cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of freeze-dried strawberry powder, a small white ceramic bowl of confectioners’ sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of pure vanilla extract, pinch of salt crystals, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Fresh strawberries: The heart of the flavor, these get pureed and reduced to concentrate their sweetness and aroma.
Cake flour: This gives the cake its tender, delicate crumb that you won’t get with all-purpose flour.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise perfectly and stay light.
Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and moisture, allowing you to control the salt.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with the tender crumb.
Egg whites: Provide structure and keep the cake airy without any fat from yolks.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
Whole milk: Adds richness and helps create a smooth batter.
Reduced strawberry puree: Intensifies strawberry flavor deep in the cake, making it uniquely fresh.
Optional food coloring: Just a couple of drops give the cake a lovely pink hue if you want it to look extra festive.
Freeze-dried strawberries: Ground into powder for the frosting, they add intense strawberry flavor without extra moisture.
Cream cheese: Gives the frosting its signature tang and velvety texture.
Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting perfectly.
Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness in the frosting and enhances all the flavors.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The wonderful thing about this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how easily you can tweak it to suit your taste or occasion. Whether you're aiming for a dietary modification or seasonal twist, it’s ready for your personal touch!

Gluten-Free Variation: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free blend made for baking to keep the texture light and fluffy. I made this swap once for a friend, and the cake was just as moist and tender with no compromise in flavor.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative and a vegan cream cheese, along with aquafaba for egg whites. It takes a bit of experimentation to get the texture just right, but the strawberry flavor shines through beautifully.
Seasonal Twist: In late summer or early fall, add a handful of finely chopped fresh raspberries or blueberries to the batter for a mixed berry version. It adds a pop of color and subtle tartness that complements the strawberry puree perfectly.
Food Coloring Fun: For a more vibrant pink tone, add 1–2 drops of pink or red gel food coloring to the batter. I prefer just a drop to keep the natural strawberry look, but for parties, the bolder shade is a hit!
Frosting Flexibility: If cream cheese isn’t your favorite, try substituting the frosting with my strawberry buttercream recipe. It’s lighter and equally luscious, especially if you want a dairy-free frosting by using vegan butter.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows a slice of two-layer pink cake with a creamy pink frosting layer in the middle and covering the outside. The cake has a soft, spongy texture with small air holes. A single red strawberry with green leaves sits on top as decoration. The cake slice is placed on a white plate with a scalloped edge, which rests on a red and white checkered cloth. The background is a white marbled surface with a blurry brown wood-like backdrop. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Create the Intense Reduced Strawberry Puree

Start by blending 1 pound of fresh, hulled strawberries until perfectly smooth—you'll want just over 1 cup (about 270g) of puree. Pour this into a small saucepan and simmer gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Patience is key here; after 35 minutes, you should have about ½ cup (135g) of thick, intensely flavored strawberry reduction. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate overnight to let those flavors fully develop. Before baking, be sure to bring it back to room temperature so it blends smoothly into your batter without lumps.

Step 2: Prep Your Oven and Pans for Success

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line each with parchment paper rounds for the easiest cake release ever. Don’t forget to grease the parchment paper itself—this double layer ensures your delicate layers come out without a hitch. If you prefer, check out my tutorial on making parchment paper rounds for perfect sizing.

Step 3: Whisk Together Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents, giving your cake that light, fluffy texture we all crave.

Step 4: Whip Up the Batter to Perfection

Using a stand or handheld mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes, until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. Then add the egg whites, beating on high speed for around 2 minutes while scraping down the bowl to ensure everything mixes evenly. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, continuing to beat for about another minute.

Turn your mixer to low and gradually add your dry ingredients, followed by the milk—be careful not to overmix here. Finally, fold in the room-temperature reduced strawberry puree and optional food coloring, whisking gently until everything is combined and the batter is slightly thick. The aroma of fresh strawberries at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 5: Bake and Cool Your Strawberry Layers

Divide your batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cakes to cool in their pans on a wire rack for one hour. Use a knife to loosen the edges, then carefully remove the cakes from the pans and peel off the parchment. Place the layers on racks and let them cool completely before frosting—this is crucial to prevent melting or sliding frosting later.

Step 6: Craft Your Luscious Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by blending freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder—sift out any larger bits for a smooth finish. In a separate bowl, beat your room-temperature cream cheese and butter together until silky smooth, around 2 minutes. Add the confectioners’ sugar, strawberry powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat on low for 30 seconds to avoid a sugar cloud, then switch to high and beat until rich and creamy—about 3 minutes.

Taste your frosting: if it’s a touch too sweet, a pinch of salt balances it perfectly. Refrigerate this luscious frosting for an hour before spreading to achieve a perfect consistency—silky, spreadable, and bursting with strawberry goodness.

Step 7: Assemble and Frost Like a Pro

Level your cooled cake layers by slicing off the rounded tops with a serrated knife—this will help your cake stack evenly. Place the first layer on your serving plate or turntable, spreading ¾–1 cup of frosting evenly on top. Carefully add the second layer upside down to create an even surface.

Apply a thin crumb coat layer with about 1 cup of frosting all over the cake’s top and sides. Smooth the frosting with a bench scraper and pop the cake in the fridge for 20 minutes, allowing the crumb coat to set.

Finally, slather on the remaining frosting with smooth, generous strokes. Chill the finished cake for at least 20 minutes before slicing—this keeps the layers firm and the frosting soft yet stable for that picture-perfect cut.

Step 8: Storing and Serving Tips

Cover any leftover cake tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To enjoy the full flavor and buttery texture, pull your cake out 2 hours before serving so it comes to room temperature. This step ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Top Tip

These tips will help you get the most out of your Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe — making the process smoother and the results even more delicious.

Make the Reduced Strawberry Puree Ahead: I’ve found that preparing the reduced strawberry puree a day in advance really deepens the flavor and saves time on the day you bake. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before mixing it into your batter.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: From the butter to the egg whites and milk, getting everything to room temperature ensures a smooth batter and helps the cake rise beautifully.
Perfect Frosting Texture: Grinding freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder is a small step that makes a huge difference — it prevents grainy spots in the frosting and gives it that lovely natural strawberry color and tang.
Let the Cake Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerating the frosted cake for at least 20 minutes sets the frosting and helps your slices stay neat. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping this step can lead to a messy cake cutting experience.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A large clear glass mixing bowl filled with a smooth, thick, light pink batter with small specks, swirled gently with a wooden spatula that has a pink tip covered in batter, sitting on a white marbled surface. Above it, a smaller clear glass measuring cup holds thick, bright red mixture with a small wooden spatula inside, resting at an angle. Nearby, a set of metal measuring spoons with black handles lie on the surface along with a small white lid or dish. The overall scene is bright and clean, focused on the batter and mixing tools. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh whole strawberries or halved ones arranged on top bring a lovely visual appeal and an extra burst of juicy sweetness. For a decorative touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or some edible flower petals. You can also add thin slices of fresh strawberries on the sides of the cake for an elegant look. If you prefer a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pistachios around the base.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic combo. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream also complements the tangy cream cheese frosting beautifully. If you want a fresh contrast, serve with a mixed berry salad or a tart raspberry coulis. For a beverage pairing, a glass of chilled sparkling rosé or a bright cup of fresh mint tea works wonderfully to balance the cake’s rich sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, cover your leftover Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight cake carrier and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. To enjoy the best flavor and texture, take the cake out about 2 hours before serving so it can soften and come to room temperature.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cake layers (frosted or unfrosted) and the frosting itself for 2–3 months. Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bring them to room temperature before decorating or serving. The reduced strawberry puree can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and bring it back to room temperature before using.

Reheating

This cake is best served at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. Simply remove it from the fridge about 2 hours before you plan to serve. This helps soften the crumb and lets the cream cheese frosting mellow perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen strawberries for the reduced puree?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but keep in mind they will take longer to reduce than fresh ones. It’s best to thaw them first and then simmer at a gentle heat until reduced to the desired consistency.

How do I store the Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Store the cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it out to room temperature about 2 hours before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature overnight. The frosting can also be made and refrigerated overnight. Assemble when you're ready and refrigerate to set the crumb coat and final frosting.

What if I don’t have freeze-dried strawberries for the frosting?

If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t available, you can omit them and add an additional ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar to maintain the frosting’s texture. The frosting will have less strawberry flavor, so consider adding a splash of strawberry extract if you like.

Final Thoughts

Making this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a joy, especially when you see how the vibrant strawberry flavors come alive in every bite. It’s a wonderful cake to share with family and friends, whether for a special celebration or a sweet everyday treat. Don’t rush the process—allow the layers to cool completely and the frosting to set, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfect slice every time. Happy baking, and enjoy every luscious bite!