Strawberry Cream Cake – The Best 12-Step Homemade Recipe

Strawberry Cream Cake made simple! Follow this 12-step homemade recipe with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and expert baking tips.

What is a Strawberry Cream Cake?

What Makes a Cake a Strawberry Cream Cake?

A Strawberry Cream Cake is not just any berry dessert — it’s a layered masterpiece where luscious strawberries meet rich cream, often sandwiched between layers of sponge or cake batter infused with strawberry flavor. What sets it apart is the balance between the fruity tang and the velvety texture of whipped cream or cream-based frosting. Some versions even blend in cream cheese or mascarpone for added depth.

This cake often incorporates real strawberry puree, flavored gelatin (like strawberry Jell-O®), and fresh or macerated strawberries to boost both flavor and visual appeal. Cream is either whipped or baked in, depending on the recipe, resulting in a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Discover great ideas like Strawberry Pretzel Salad – A Sweet & Creamy Delight

Origins and Popularity of the Strawberry Cream Cake

While there’s no single origin story, the Strawberry Cream Cake became especially popular in American households during the 1950s when gelatin desserts and whipped toppings gained mainstream appeal. Its natural red-and-white palette made it a staple at Fourth of July parties, baby showers, and potlucks. Over the years, it’s been adapted into forms like no-bake versions, shortcakes, trifles, and even icebox cakes.

Its resurgence today is thanks to nostalgic flavors and the viral visual appeal of pink desserts. Check out Berry Trifle with Angel Food Cake for another modern twist on fruity indulgence.

Ingredients for the Perfect Strawberry Cream Cake

Detailed Overview of Core Ingredients

To create a truly unforgettable Strawberry Cream Cake, it all starts with the right ingredients. This recipe uses a combination of classic baking staples and fresh strawberry components that deliver both flavor and texture.

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients that make this cake moist, fluffy, and deeply flavorful:

Ingredient	Purpose in the Recipe
2 ¾ cups cake flour	Provides a tender, fine crumb for the cake
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder	Leavening agent to help the cake rise
2 cups white sugar	Adds sweetness and structure to the cake batter
1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O®	Enhances strawberry flavor and gives a vibrant pink color
1 cup butter, softened	Adds moisture and richness to the cake base
4 eggs	Binds the ingredients and contributes to structure and lift
1 cup milk	Hydrates the batter and adds softness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract	Adds warmth and rounds out flavors in the cake batter
½ cup strawberries, pureed	Provides fresh fruit flavor and natural moisture
1 ½ cups heavy cream	Whipped into a light filling for layering
2 tablespoons sugar	Lightly sweetens the whipped cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract	Adds flavor depth to the whipped cream
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced	Used between layers for texture and burst of real fruit
½ cup margarine, softened	Creamy base for the frosting
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened	Adds tanginess and smooth texture to the frosting
4 cups confectioners’ sugar	Sweetens and thickens the frosting
2 teaspoons vanilla extract	Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese frosting
1 ½ cups quartered strawberries	Folded into frosting for fruity flavor and visual appeal

Tip: Always use room-temperature ingredients for better emulsification and smoother batter. It enhances the overall texture and ensures even baking.

Looking for inspiration? Try Zesty Lemon Cake Recipe – Moist & Fluffy for a citrus-forward twist on cream-style cakes.

How to Bake the Ultimate Strawberry Cream Cake

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Baking a perfect Strawberry Cream Cake doesn’t require years of pastry school — just patience, quality ingredients, and these foolproof steps:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:

• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 (3 oz) package strawberry flavored Jell-O®
• 1 cup softened butter

Mix until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. This forms the base of your Strawberry Cream Cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step builds structure and emulsifies the batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 2 ¾ cups cake flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

Add this dry mixture to your creamed mixture alternately with 1 cup milk, beating after each addition to keep the batter smooth and lump-free.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Fold in:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup pureed strawberries

This gives the batter a rich, fruity flavor and signature pink hue.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly into the three prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then gently remove and place on wire racks to cool completely before filling or frosting.

Filling Instructions

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, beat:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Step 9: Fill the Cak

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with ⅓ of the whipped cream and ¾ cup sliced strawberries. Repeat with the second and third layers.

Frosting and Final Decoration

Step 10: Prepare the Frosting

Beat together until smooth and creamy:

• ½ cup softened margarine
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step 11: Frost the Cake

Use this frosting to cover the sides of the Strawberry Cream Cake. Pipe a decorative edge around the top border.

Step 12: Finish and Serve

Spread the remaining whipped cream on top of the cake and finish with 1 ½ cups quartered strawberries for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

This step-by-step method ensures your Strawberry Cream Cake turns out moist, fruity, and absolutely beautiful every time.
Let cakes cool in their pans on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then run a knife around the edges, invert onto racks, and cool completely before frosting.

Don’t miss our Easy Tiramisu Recipe – Inspired by Café Moments for another creamy crowd-pleaser.

Baking Tips for Consistent Results Every Time

• Room Temperature Rule: Every ingredient — especially butter, eggs, and milk — should be at room temperature. This helps everything blend more evenly.
• Don’t Overmix: Once the flour goes in, be gentle. Overmixing can create a dense or tough cake.
• Oven Positioning: Bake cakes in the center rack to ensure even heat distribution.
• Use Parchment: For guaranteed non-stick results, line your pans with circles of parchment paper.

Common Mistakes to Avoid	How to Fix Them
Dry Cake	Don’t overbake. Use a timer and check early.
Dense Texture	Sift flour, and don’t overmix batter.
Flat Cake	Make sure baking powder is fresh.

Strawberry Cream Cake vs. Other Cakes

Cream Cake vs Normal Cake: Key Differences

At first glance, a Strawberry Cream Cake may look like just another pink-layered dessert. But under the surface, there are distinct differences between cream cakes and traditional cakes:

Feature	Cream Cake	Normal Cake
Texture	Moist, rich, and often softer	Can be light or dense, depending on style
Frosting	Typically whipped cream, stabilized cream, or mousse	Buttercream, ganache, or glaze
Flavor Integration	Cream is infused in the batter or filling	Flavors usually baked into the sponge only
Shelf Life	Shorter due to dairy content	Longer, especially if stored properly
Presentation	Light, airy look with berries or soft layers	Can be layered or sheet-style, usually denser

Strawberry Cream Cake falls under the cream cake category because it blends strawberries and cream into both the batter and the topping. It isn’t just topped with cream — the cream is part of the cake’s identity.

If you’re a fan of dessert experiments, you might also enjoy the floral and nutty layers of Rosewater Pistachio Tres Leches Cake, which blends elegance and indulgence beautifully.

Variations and Other Names for Strawberry Cakes

Synonyms & Alternate Names Around the World

While Strawberry Cream Cake is the common name across most American kitchens, this dessert takes on many aliases depending on where you go or how it’s made. Some common variations and alternate names include:

• Strawberry Shortcake Cake – Combines shortcake textures with layered cake styling.
• Whipped Strawberry Cake – Focuses on fluffy whipped cream and light sponge.
• Strawberry Layer Cake – Highlights visible stacked layers of cake and cream.
• Strawberry Sponge Cake – Made with airy sponge layers and fresh strawberries.
• Strawberries and Cream Cake – Emphasizes whole fruit and fresh cream rather than pureed or baked-in berries.

In Europe, you might see it referred to as:

• Fraisier Cake (France) – A delicate layered sponge filled with crème mousseline and fresh strawberries.
• Erdbeer-Sahne-Torte (Germany) – A cream torte filled with strawberries and often set with gelatin.

Across the board, what unites these desserts is their bright berry flavor, light cream, and visual appeal — often in beautiful pink or red layers.

Regional Twists on Strawberry Cream Cake Recipes

Depending on your location, you might find interesting ingredient swaps and cultural spins:

• Southern U.S. Style: More butter, denser cake, and cream cheese added to the frosting.
• Japanese Strawberry Shortcake: Ultra-light sponge with whipped cream and minimal sugar — almost like a cloud.
• Latin-Inspired Strawberry Tres Leches: Soaked in three kinds of milk, often topped with strawberries and cinnamon.

Want to try a global spin? Don’t miss our Rosewater Pistachio Tres Leches Cake for a Middle Eastern twist on a creamy, moist cake.

No matter the version, the goal is the same — a balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity that melts in your mouth.

Nutritional Facts You Should Know

Caloric Breakdown per Serving

When indulging in a dessert as rich as Strawberry Cream Cake, it helps to know exactly what you’re getting. Here’s a full breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on a recipe that serves 14):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	393	—
Total Fat	15g	20%
Saturated Fat	9g	46%
Cholesterol	90mg	30%
Sodium	233mg	10%
Total Carbohydrates	59g	22%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	37g	—
Protein	5g	11%
Vitamin C	4mg	4%
Calcium	85mg	7%
Iron	3mg	14%
Potassium	89mg	2%

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

So, while it’s definitely not a “light” dessert, it can still be part of a balanced treat rotation — especially when enjoyed mindfully. The combination of strawberries, cream, and eggs makes this a decadent but nutrient-dense option compared to store-bought processed cakes.

Healthier Substitutions for Lighter Versions

Looking to enjoy Strawberry Cream Cake with less guilt? Here are some easy swaps that can reduce calories and fat without sacrificing too much taste:

Original Ingredient	Healthier Substitute
Butter	Greek yogurt or coconut oil (in partial ratio)
Whole milk	Almond milk or skim milk
White sugar	Coconut sugar or a stevia blend
Strawberry gelatin (Jell-O®)	Real strawberry puree + agar-agar or pectin
Whipped cream	Light whipped topping or Greek yogurt

These options not only reduce saturated fat and sugar, but also boost nutritional value with probiotics, vitamins, and fiber. Just be aware that substitutions may affect the texture slightly, so experiment in small batches.

Learn more about healthy DIY dessert ideas like no-bake cheesecake for low-guilt indulgence.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Creative Garnishing and Plating Tips

You’ve baked the perfect Strawberry Cream Cake — now it’s time to make it look like a masterpiece. Visual appeal is a big part of the dessert experience, especially with such a vibrant and colorful cake. Here’s how to elevate your presentation:

1. Fresh Strawberry Halves:
Arrange sliced strawberries in concentric circles on top of the cake for a classic look.

2. Whipped Cream Rosettes:
Pipe whipped cream using a star tip around the edges or between layers for a bakery-style finish.

3. Edible Flowers or Mint Leaves:
A few fresh mint leaves or edible blooms (like pansies or violets) can instantly make your cake photo-ready.

4. White Chocolate Curls or Drizzle:
Add elegance and flavor with fine white chocolate shavings or a drizzle.

5. Crushed Freeze-Dried Strawberries:
Sprinkle around the base or edges for color, texture, and a pop of tangy strawberry flavor.

Presentation Tip	Why It Works
Strawberries + Mint	Enhances freshness, adds contrast in color
Whipped Cream Rosettes	Creates volume and professional appearance
Chocolate Decorations	Adds sweetness and texture

Looking for inspiration? Try Orange Blossom Honey Madeleines for another gorgeous dessert styling idea.

Best Pairings: What to Serve with Strawberry Cream Cake

Pairing drinks and sides can elevate your cake from dessert to experience. Here are some tried-and-true combos:

Beverage Pairings:

• Chilled Rosé Wine – Light and fruity to match the cake’s flavor.
• Sparkling Lemonade – Bright, citrusy, and refreshing.
• Earl Grey Tea – Adds a floral twist that balances the cake’s sweetness.

Side Pairings:

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – Complements the strawberry notes without overpowering.
• Berry Compote – Serve on the side for extra fruitiness and a burst of tart.
• Light Cheese Platter – For more formal settings, contrast with mild cheeses like brie.

Whether it’s a picnic or a plated dinner dessert, these pairing options ensure your Strawberry Cream Cake is the highlight of the spread.

FAQs

A homemade Strawberry Cream Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of fresh fruit, velvety cream, and moist cake layers that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, picnic, or just because, this cake offers endless opportunities for customization, presentation, and joy.

You now have everything you need: the best recipe, expert tips, serving inspiration, nutritional breakdown, and answers to every strawberry cake question. So what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven and dive into one of the most beloved, beautiful cakes out there.

Don’t miss our Strawberry Pretzel Salad – A Sweet & Creamy Delight for another berry-based treat worth trying.