Easy Strawberry Layer Cake

Easy Strawberry Layer Cake is a light, fluffy dessert made with layers of moist cake, fresh strawberries, and creamy frosting. It's simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients :

For the cake

• 2 1/2 cups (320g) all-purpose flour

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 2/3 cup strawberry jam, room temperature

• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Red food coloring or gel, as desired, optional

For the frosting

• 1 cup (22g) freeze-dried strawberries

• 1 (8-ounce) brick cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups (340g) powdered sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Up to 3 tablespoons milk, as needed

• A handful of fresh strawberries, sliced, for decoration

STEPS :

     1. Preheat & Prepare Pans

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and lightly grease the paper.

     2. Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.

     3. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar with a mixer on medium speed until fluffy (3–4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Scrape the bowl.

Mix in half of the dry ingredients, then add strawberry jam and mix. Add the remaining dry ingredients, then blend in sour cream, vanilla, and food coloring (if using) until just combined.

     4. Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 35–45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

     5. Make Strawberry Powder

Grind freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a spice grinder, mini food processor, or a rolling pin and zip-top bag.

     6. Make the Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter in a bowl until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add powdered sugar, strawberry powder, and salt, then mix on low. Increase speed and beat until creamy, adjusting with milk if needed for a spreadable consistency.

     7. Assemble & Decorate

Trim cake tops if domed. Place one layer on a plate and spread with 1/3 of the frosting. Add the second layer and spread another 1/3 of the frosting on top. Use the remaining frosting to coat the sides. Garnish with sliced strawberries.

Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. If not serving immediately, refrigerate uncovered for up to 2 hours before serving.

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