Fresh Strawberry Cake You’ll Love

There’s something about strawberries that just feels like sunshine in a bite. I remember picking them by the bucketful on warm June afternoons, their ruby-red color just begging to be baked into something delicious. This fresh strawberry cake brings back that same feeling soft, juicy, and filled with real fruit flavor in every slice.

Unlike some strawberry cakes that rely on flavoring or gelatin, this Fresh Strawberry Cake uses only real, ripe berries. It’s easy to make, made from scratch with simple ingredients, and perfect for summer potlucks, brunches, or just a sweet afternoon treat with coffee.

Whether you’re celebrating strawberry season or just need a no-fuss dessert that looks as good as it tastes, this fresh strawberry cake fits the bill. It’s tender, lightly sweet, and lets the strawberries shine in all their summery glory.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Strawberry Cake

There are plenty of reasons why this fresh strawberry cake deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box. Here’s what makes it so special:

• Simple ingredients, big flavor
  Everything you need is likely already in your pantry and fridge—no artificial flavors, no boxed mixes, just real ingredients.
• Fresh berries in every bite
  Each slice is loaded with juicy strawberries that soften perfectly as they bake into the batter.
• Moist texture, perfect for spring or summer
  Thanks to a little sour cream or yogurt, the cake stays soft and tender without being too rich.
• Not overly sweet – just right
  It has the perfect balance: sweet from the berries, light from the crumb, and satisfying without being heavy.
• Great for brunch, dessert, or afternoon coffee
  This fresh strawberry cake works any time of day—especially when you need something that feels homemade and heartwarming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cake keeps things simple, with wholesome ingredients and a focus on letting the strawberries shine. It’s divided into two easy parts: the batter and the strawberries.

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness

Tip: While fresh strawberries are best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen berries if that’s what you have. Just thaw and drain them well before using to avoid extra moisture in the cake.

This ingredient list keeps the focus on real flavor—the result is a soft, buttery cake with pockets of juicy berries throughout.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This fresh strawberry cake is easy to make at home, even if you’re not an experienced baker. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a moist, berry-filled cake ready to enjoy in no time.

Step 1: Prep the Strawberries

1. Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries.
2. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the optional lemon zest. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the batter. This brings out their natural juices and deepens the flavor.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in the sour cream (or yogurt) and vanilla until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth—don’t overmix.

Step 3: Layer the Strawberries on Top

1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
2. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries over the top of the batter.
3. Lightly press the strawberries into the batter so they’re slightly embedded but still visible.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Set

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. The strawberries will sink slightly into the cake and release their juices while baking—that’s what gives this fresh strawberry cake its signature moist texture.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

You can enjoy this cake plain, or dress it up with a little powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Baking Tips

This fresh strawberry cake is simple, but a few thoughtful techniques can take it from good to exceptional.

• Don’t overmix the batter
  Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the softest crumb.
• Use ripe but firm strawberries
  Soft, overripe berries can release too much liquid and create soggy pockets. Look for strawberries that are sweet, red, and slightly firm.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing
  As tempting as it is to cut right in, allowing the cake to cool helps it set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
• Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving
  A light dusting adds an elegant, bakery-style finish—perfect if you’re serving it for a brunch or shower.

If you enjoy fresh strawberry desserts, you might also love our Chantilly Berry Cake—a delicate, layered treat that’s just as beautiful as it is delicious.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

This fresh strawberry cake is a great base for creativity. Whether you’re swapping flavors or dressing it up for a gathering, here are some delicious ideas to try.

Flavor Variations

• Add lemon zest to the batter
  For a bright, citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Mix in raspberries or blueberries
  Replace half of the strawberries with another berry to create a mixed berry cake. It’s a perfect way to use what’s in season.
• Top with sliced almonds
  Add a light crunch and subtle nutty flavor by sprinkling almonds over the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• With whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  A classic pairing—cool, creamy toppings balance the cake’s natural sweetness and moisture.
• Dust with powdered sugar
  For a light, elegant finish when serving guests or bringing the cake to brunch.
• Pair with iced tea or coffee
  This cake is just sweet enough to be served as a casual afternoon treat or after a light summer lunch.

Fresh strawberry desserts like this one are made for relaxing weekends and casual gatherings—just slice, serve, and watch it disappear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake fresh strawberries in a cake?

Yes, absolutely. Fresh strawberries bake beautifully in cakes and add a burst of juicy flavor. Just make sure to slice them evenly and use firm, ripe berries to prevent too much moisture from seeping into the batter.

Can I put real strawberries in cake mix?

You can! If you’re using a boxed cake mix, fold in chopped fresh strawberries just before baking. Be aware that too many berries or very wet strawberries can make the cake too soft or soggy, so pat them dry before mixing.

What cakes can you make with strawberries?

Strawberries are incredibly versatile in baking. Some popular fresh strawberry desserts include strawberry shortcake, strawberry cheesecake, strawberry pound cake, and of course, this fresh strawberry cake. You can also use them in layered cakes with whipped cream or frosting for more festive occasions.

How to stop strawberries from making a cake soggy?

To prevent sogginess, use firm strawberries and avoid overloading the batter. Tossing sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar and letting them sit can help release excess juice before baking. Also, pressing the berries gently into the top of the batter (rather than mixing them in) helps keep the texture light and balanced.

Fresh Strawberry Cake

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• Author: Michonne Zendaya
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

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Ingredients

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

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Instructions

Instructions

 

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   Slice strawberries and toss with 1 tablespoon of sugar and optional lemon zest. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.

2. Make the Batter:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
   In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add sour cream and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients just until combined.

3. Assemble the Cake:
   Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange sliced strawberries on top and gently press them into the batter.

4. Bake:
   Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Cool & Serve:
   Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve as is or with whipped cream or ice cream.

Notes

• You can substitute frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain well first.

• Add lemon zest or almond extract for extra flavor.

 

• Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes

Final Thoughts

This fresh strawberry cake is one of those simple pleasures you’ll come back to again and again. It’s light, tender, and full of real strawberry flavor—perfect for summer afternoons, weekend brunches, or whenever you’re craving something a little nostalgic and homemade.

Best of all, it’s a no-fuss dessert that anyone can make. No artificial flavors, no boxed mixes—just fresh ingredients and a little love from your kitchen.

If you tried and loved this recipe, we’d be thrilled to hear about it! Leave a comment or rating below, share it with friends, or pin it for later. And if you’re looking for more fresh strawberry desserts, be sure to check back often—there’s always something sweet baking here at Cook Joy Recipes.