Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake Recipe

3 min read 22-02-2025

Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake Recipe

Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Southern garden party? This Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake is the star dessert that will steal the show! Imagine a moist, fluffy cake infused with the sweet tang of strawberries, generously soaked in a vibrant punch, and topped with a cloud of creamy frosting. This easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply a delightful treat for yourself. Get ready for a taste of pure Southern comfort!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Strawberry Punch:

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh strawberries, for garnish

Instructions:

Get Started:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan. This ensures your cake releases easily.

Make the Cake:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combines all the dry ingredients evenly.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients ensures a smooth batter.
  3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
  4. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.

Bake the Cake:

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Strawberry Punch:

  1. While the cake is baking, combine the water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Add the frozen strawberries, orange juice, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  3. Remove from heat and let the punch cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

  1. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This is best done using an electric mixer for a light and fluffy texture.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake:

  1. Once the cake is completely cool, poke holes all over the cake using a skewer or fork.
  2. Pour the cooled strawberry punch evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. This is what creates the signature moistness of this delicious cake.
  3. Frost the cake with the cream cheese frosting. Garnish with fresh strawberries.

Tips for Success:

  • Don't overmix the cake batter.
  • Let the cake cool completely before adding the punch.
  • Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
  • If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Variations:

  • Add a splash of Grand Marnier or other liqueur to the punch for an adult twist.
  • Use raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries.
  • Add a layer of whipped cream between the cake layers for extra richness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

Calories: Approximately 400-450 (This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used.)

This Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet taste of summer with every bite! It's a truly delicious and memorable dessert, guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Happy baking!

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