If you’re craving a sweet and easy dessert, you're in the right place! This Easy Strawberry Sheet Cake is perfect for any occasion, from spring gatherings to family dinners. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how delicious it tastes. With just a few ingredients and quick steps, you can impress everyone with a delightful treat. Let’s dive right into the recipe and make some magic happen!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Strawberries: This cake is packed with fresh strawberries, making it a delightful treat during berry season!
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps ensure that even beginner bakers can enjoy creating this delicious dessert.
- Perfect for Gatherings: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Everyone will love it!
- Customizable Topping: The whipped cream topping allows for creativity; you can add nuts, chocolate shavings, or more fruit!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
- Additional strawberries for garnish
Measurement Conversions
- 1 cup = 240 ml
- 1 tablespoon = 15 ml
- ½ cup = 120 ml
- 1 teaspoon = 5 ml
If you need to convert measurements, use these simple rules. For example, if you want to make a half batch, use 1 cup of flour instead of 2 cups.
Suggested Ingredient Substitutions
- Flour: You can use cake flour for a softer texture.
- Sugar: Try brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Butter: Coconut oil works well for a dairy-free option.
- Milk: Almond milk or oat milk can replace whole milk.
- Eggs: Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg.
These swaps keep your cake tasty while making it fit your needs. Enjoy making this easy strawberry sheet cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Preheating
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for a perfect bake. Next, grab a large baking sheet. You can grease and flour it or use parchment paper. This will help the cake come out easily later.
Mixing the Batter
In a big mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mix is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to beat well after each egg. Add the vanilla extract and mix it in.
In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Alternate with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough. Fold in the sliced strawberries gently to keep them from sinking.
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to smooth out the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Cooling and Topping the Cake
Once baked, take the cake out of the oven. Let it cool in the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. After it cools, spread the whipped cream on top. For a pretty touch, add more fresh strawberries on top, sliced or whole.
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Overmixing
To keep your cake light and fluffy, mix just enough. After adding the dry mix, stir until you see no flour. If you see lumps, that’s okay! Overmixing makes the cake dense. Use a spatula to gently combine the batter. This helps keep air in the mix, giving your cake a nice rise.
Best Practices for Strawberry Incorporation
Add strawberries carefully to avoid smashing them. After mixing the batter, fold in the sliced strawberries gently. This way, they spread out well. You want every bite to have strawberry flavor. If you want the strawberries to stay on top, use less batter at the bottom. This keeps them from sinking during baking.
Achieving the Perfect Whipped Cream
Whipping cream should be cold. Start with cold heavy cream for the best results. Use a clean bowl and beaters to whip the cream until soft peaks form. This takes about 2-3 minutes. For extra flavor, add a bit of vanilla and sugar while whipping. This gives a sweet touch to your cake topping.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smoother batter and a lighter cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
- Fresh Strawberries Matter: Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can add excess moisture and affect the cake's texture.
- Cool Completely Before Topping: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding whipped cream. This prevents the cream from melting and keeps your cake looking beautiful.
Variations
Chocolate Strawberry Sheet Cake
You can turn your strawberry sheet cake into a chocolate delight. Start by adding cocoa powder to your batter. Use about ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix it with the flour. This will give your cake a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs well with strawberries. You can also add chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Sheet Cake
For a gluten-free version, swap out all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour. This change keeps the taste and texture similar. Make sure to check your baking powder for gluten-free labeling. Other ingredients remain the same. Your cake will still have that lovely strawberry flavor.
Adding Other Fruits or Flavorings
Feel free to get creative! You can mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. These fruits add new colors and tastes. If you want a twist, try adding lemon zest or almond extract. Just a teaspoon of either will enhance the flavor. You can also use different berries for fresh combinations. Each change makes the cake uniquely yours!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cake
After serving, let the cake cool completely. Cover any leftover cake with plastic wrap. You can also use an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to five days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to store the cake for longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Best Practices for Reheating
When you're ready to enjoy the cake again, take it out of the freezer. Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. If you need it quickly, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm slice, use the microwave. Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds. This will bring back its soft texture. Enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first, then pat them dry. This helps avoid extra moisture in the cake. Frozen berries may change the texture a bit, but they still taste great.
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use applesauce or mashed bananas instead of eggs. Each egg can be replaced with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 of a mashed banana. These options keep your cake moist and add some natural sweetness.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also spring back when lightly pressed. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking for best results.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Just store it covered at room temperature. If you want to add whipped cream, do it right before serving for the best taste and look.
What pairs well with strawberry sheet cake?
Strawberry sheet cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. You can also serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of mint leaves for a fresh touch.
You learned about key ingredients, measurements, and substitutions for a strawberry sheet cake. We explored step-by-step baking, cooling, and topping the cake. Tips and tricks helped avoid common mistakes, while variations showed you how to mix flavors. Finally, storage info ensures your cake lasts longer.
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy baking and share your tasty treats!
