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), at room temperature; 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 love the vibrant, fresh flavor of strawberries in your desserts, then you’re going to adore this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s moist, tender, and bursting with real strawberry goodness—perfect for any celebration or just because.

A round two-layer cake with smooth, creamy pink frosting that has small red specks all over it. The frosting swirls gently on top with visible soft peaks. Two fresh strawberries with green leaves sit in the center of the cake. One slice is cut and slightly pulled out, showing a dark brown layer inside that contrasts with the bright pink frosting. The cake rests on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. 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’ve made a lot of strawberry cakes over the years, but this one holds a special place in my heart. The combination of luscious strawberry puree baked into the cake and the creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting on top is simply irresistible.

Real Strawberry Flavor: Using fresh strawberry puree and freeze-dried strawberry powder means every bite sings with authentic fruitiness.
Moist and Tender Texture: The sour cream keeps the cake incredibly moist, soft, and tender.
Cream Cheese Frosting Twist: The frosting balances the sweetness with a subtle tang, elevating the classic strawberry cake.
Show-Stopping Presentation: This cake looks as beautiful as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or celebrating special moments.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, let’s look at the key ingredients that make this strawberry cake shine. I highly recommend using the freshest strawberries you can find for the puree—that “real” flavor really makes all the difference. Also, freeze-dried strawberries for the frosting add that concentrated strawberry punch and a lovely color.

Flat lay of fresh whole strawberries with green leaves, a small mound of fine white cake flour on a simple white ceramic plate, a few teaspoons of baking powder and baking soda side by side in small white ceramic bowls, a pat of pale yellow unsalted butter on a white ceramic dish, a heap of granulated white sugar on a white ceramic plate, five large whole uncracked white eggs, a small white ceramic bowl of thick creamy plain Greek yogurt, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, a small white ceramic bowl of pure vanilla extract, a block of smooth cream cheese on a white ceramic plate, a small white ceramic bowl with soft unsalted butter, a small pile of fine white confectioners’ sugar on a white ceramic dish, a small white ceramic bowl of freeze-dried strawberry powder, all arranged symmetrically and realistically proportioned, placed 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: Essential for making the vibrant strawberry puree that flavors the cake naturally.
Cake flour: Keeps the texture light and tender, perfect for delicate cakes like this one.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise properly and stay fluffy.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness—softened to ensure a smooth batter.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist crumb.
Egg whites: Whisked into the batter for a light, airy structure without extra fat.
Full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang for balance.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet strawberry notes without overpowering.
Whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and the cake tender.
Freeze-dried strawberries: Ground into powder for a naturally flavored, vibrantly colored frosting.
Full-fat brick cream cheese: Provides creaminess and slight tang in the frosting’s rich texture.
Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky.
Optional red or pink food coloring: A small touch to deepen that lovely pink hue, if you want.

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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 beauty of this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how versatile it is! Whether you want to tweak flavors, adapt it for special diets, or adjust the presentation, there’s plenty of room to make it uniquely yours.

Gluten-Free Variation: I’ve tried swapping the cake flour for a gluten-free blend with great results—just be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The cake stays tender and moist with that fresh strawberry flavor intact!
Vegan Option: While this recipe relies on eggs and dairy, you can experiment with aquafaba for egg whites and plant-based cream cheese and milk substitutes. It takes a bit of trial, but the end result is still delightful for vegan friends.
Seasonal Flair: In spring or summer, use the freshest strawberries you can find. For winter months, frozen strawberries work, though you’ll want to budget extra time for reducing the puree. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or fresh mint leaves can elevate the flavor profile nicely.
Pink Food Coloring: If you love a more vibrant pink cake, adding one or two drops of red or pink gel food coloring works wonders. I usually add just a drop to enhance the natural strawberry hue without overwhelming it.
Alternative Frostings: Not a fan of cream cheese? I have a strawberry buttercream variation that complements the cake perfectly and makes a lighter frosting option.

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

A slice of pink two-layer cake sits on a white plate with a textured edge, placed on a red checkered cloth. The cake has two thick layers of soft pink sponge with a creamy pink frosting layer in between. The outside of the cake is also coated with the same smooth pink frosting. On top of the cake, there is one small red strawberry with green leaves. The background shows a softly blurred dark wooden texture, and the surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Create Your Strawberry Magic with Reduced Puree

Start by blending your fresh strawberries until smooth — expect about 1 cup plus a little extra (roughly 270 grams). Then, pour the puree into a saucepan and let it gently simmer over medium-low heat for around 35 minutes. Stir occasionally as the liquid reduces to a luscious ½ cup (about 135 grams). This concentrates that fresh strawberry sweetness and flavor. Pro tip: I always make this the day before and refrigerate it overnight so it’s fully cooled and ready to blend into the batter the next day.

Step 2: Prep Your Pans and Oven for Success

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans and line them with parchment paper rounds—then grease the parchment, too. This double-layer helps your cake release perfectly, so no stress when it’s time to remove them. Having parchment paper on hand is a game changer for even baking.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients and Cream Butter & Sugar

Whisk together your cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and set this mix aside. Then in a large bowl, beat your softened butter with sugar on medium-high for about 3 minutes until fluffy and light. This step is crucial for a soft, tender crumb and a cake that feels truly special.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg Whites, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Beat in the egg whites on high speed for 2 minutes until fully incorporated and glossy. Scrape the bowl down to keep everything well mixed. Next, add the sour cream and vanilla extract, beating for an additional minute. These add moisture and a slight tang that balances beautifully with the strawberry.

Step 5: Bring It Together — Dry Ingredients, Milk, and Strawberry Puree

With your mixer on low, first add the dry ingredients, then slowly pour in the milk, mixing just until combined. Overmixing here can toughen the cake, so take it easy. Finally, whisk in the room-temperature reduced strawberry puree and optional food coloring until the batter is smooth and slightly thick. This rich pink batter should smell fresh and fruity—get ready to bake!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake Layers to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between your two pans and bake for 25 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Then let the cakes cool in their pans on a rack for 1 hour. Once slightly cooled, run a knife around the edges, peel off the parchment paper, and transfer the cakes to the rack to cool completely. Patience here means easier frosting later!

Step 7: Create the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by pulverizing the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. Sift if needed to remove any lumps — this powder infuses your frosting with a vibrant strawberry flavor and a pretty pink hue. Next, beat the softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high for about 2 minutes until silky smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, strawberry powder, milk, and vanilla. Beat starting low for 30 seconds, then up to high for 3 minutes until creamy and luscious. Taste and add a pinch of salt if the frosting feels too sweet. Chill it in the fridge for an hour so it firms up nicely for frosting your cake.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost Like a Pro

Level your cooled cakes by slicing off the dome tops to get a flat surface. Place one layer on your serving plate or turntable, then spread about ¾ to 1 cup of frosting evenly on top. Carefully place the second layer upside down, then apply a thin crumb coat (about 1 cup frosting) on the cake’s top and sides. Use a bench scraper for smooth edges, then chill for 20 minutes. Finally, slather the remaining frosting all over the cake for that beautiful, creamy finish. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before slicing to help the frosting set perfectly.

Step 9: Enjoy and Store with Care

Serve your stunning strawberry cake slightly chilled or at room temperature after letting it sit out for about 2 hours if refrigerated more than 4 hours. Any leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days — just cover tightly to keep the cake moist and the frosting fresh.

Top Tip

Getting the perfect Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe down is all about patience and attention to detail. These tips helped me turn a good cake into a truly memorable one, and they can do the same for you!

Reduce Your Strawberry Puree Slowly: I learned that simmering the puree gently over medium-low heat for about 35 minutes really intensifies that fresh strawberry flavor without burning it. Rushing this step can lead to a bitter taste, so give yourself the time to do it right.
Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature: From the softened butter and cream cheese to the egg whites and milk, everything should be room temperature. It makes mixing easier and leads to a smoother, fluffier batter and frosting.
Chill the Frosting Before Frosting: Refrigerating your strawberry cream cheese frosting for at least 1 hour firms it up and makes it easier to spread. I avoided messy, runny frosting this way every time.
Level Your Cake Layers: Trimming the tops off your cooled cakes before frosting ensures even layers and a neat finish. Don’t skip this – it makes assembling your cake less frustrating and the result looks professionally done.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A large clear glass mixing bowl is filled with smooth, light pink batter with tiny darker pink specks. A wooden spoon with a pink silicone spatula end rests in the batter, creating spiral swirls on the surface. Behind it is a clear glass measuring cup with bright red berry mixture inside, partially coated with remnants of the same red color and a wooden spoon with a pink silicone spatula end sticking out. To the side, there are three metal measuring spoons stacked together. All items rest on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your strawberry cake even more special at the table, try decorating with fresh sliced strawberries along the edges or on top. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate touch, or for a fun twist, scatter freeze-dried strawberry pieces on the frosting for a burst of flavor and texture. Fresh mint leaves also make a pretty, refreshing garnish that complements the cake’s strawberry and cream cheese flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake shines as a dessert centerpiece, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your celebration. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add creaminess. A fresh fruit salad featuring berries, kiwi, and citrus offers a bright contrast, while a light tea or sparkling rosé can help cleanse the palate between indulgent bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cake, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight cake container. Keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor. If the cake has been in the fridge for more than 4 hours, bring it out about 2 hours before serving — this helps the cake soften and the flavors come through beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze both unfrosted and frosted cake layers for 2–3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before frosting or serving. This is a fantastic way to prepare ahead for a party or special occasion.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the cream cheese frosting. Instead, plan ahead by letting the refrigerated or thawed cake sit out for about 1–2 hours before serving, allowing the rich flavors and creamy texture to shine.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the puree?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be aware that they may take longer to reduce during simmering. Be patient and stir occasionally until the puree reaches the proper consistency and flavor.

What if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries for the frosting?

If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t available, simply omit them and add an extra ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar to the frosting to balance sweetness and texture. The frosting will still taste delicious!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and store them tightly covered at room temperature overnight. The frosting can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling. The fully frosted cake can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

How do I get the best strawberry flavor in the cake?

Reducing the fresh strawberry puree slowly over medium-low heat concentrates the flavor beautifully. Also, be sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries and bring the reduced puree to room temperature before adding it to your batter for an even, natural strawberry taste.

Final Thoughts

Making this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe from scratch is such a rewarding experience. The combination of fresh strawberry puree folded gently into the batter with that luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting creates a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving a summer treat, this cake always brings smiles and happy memories. So grab your strawberries, get baking, and enjoy every sweet moment!