Are you craving a deliciously moist and flavorful strawberry cake, reminiscent of your favorite café's signature dessert? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the delightful taste of Newk's Strawberry Cake, bringing the café experience right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and impressive dessert. This recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic, making it a guilt-free indulgence for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this amazing homemade cake!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree (about 8-10 fresh strawberries, pureed)
For the Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons strawberry puree
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice (to adjust consistency)
For the Fresh Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release.
Making the Cake Batter:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a lighter cake.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
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Gently fold in the strawberry puree. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake.
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Glaze and Assembling the Cake:
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While the cakes are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and strawberry puree. Add milk or lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
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Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with the strawberry glaze. Top with the sliced strawberries.
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Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining glaze.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or wooden skewer to check if the cake is baked through.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variations:
- Lemon Strawberry Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a zesty twist.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace the strawberry glaze with a delicious cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
- Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate strawberry combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Protein: 4-6g
This Newk's-inspired strawberry cake recipe is a delicious and satisfying dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and delicious homemade cake!