Indulge your sweet tooth in a blissful journey with our delectable Strawberry Sheet Cake—a celebration of the luscious red berries that embody the essence of summer. This crowd-pleasing dessert is a symphony of flavors and textures, promising a slice of pure delight in every bite. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting this divine Strawberry Sheet Cake that captures the essence of freshness and sweetness.
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Sheet Cake:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Strawberry Sheet Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Adding Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Alternating Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Folding in Strawberries:
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
6. Baking the Sheet Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Creating the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and well combined.
8. Frosting the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting evenly over the top.
9. Garnishing and Serving:
- Garnish with additional sliced strawberries if desired.
- Slice, serve, and savor the sweetness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Almond Essence: Add a hint of almond flavor by incorporating 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract into the cake batter.
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the freshness by adding the zest of a lemon or orange to the frosting.
- Nuts for Crunch: For added texture, fold in a half cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the batter.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
Keto Strawberry Sheet Cake:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to reduce carb content.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
Low Carb Strawberry Sheet Cake:
- Opt for a low-carb baking mix in place of traditional flour.
- Choose a low-carb sweetener for both the cake and frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the cake? A: While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, you can use thawed and drained frozen strawberries in a pinch. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: How should I store the Strawberry Sheet Cake? A: Store the cake in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. Cover it with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container.
Q: Can I make the cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Bake the cake in advance and frost it on the day of serving for the freshest taste.
Q: Can I use a different fruit in place of strawberries? A: Certainly! Experiment with raspberries, blueberries, or a combination of your favorite berries for a personalized twist.
Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Sheet Cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Frost it after thawing.
In conclusion, our Strawberry Sheet Cake is a testament to the exquisite harmony of fresh strawberries and moist cake, crowned with a velvety cream cheese frosting. Whether you follow the classic recipe or venture into keto and low-carb adaptations, this dessert promises to be the star of any occasion. Elevate your sweet indulgence with the essence of summer berries. Gather your ingredients, embrace the lusciousness, and savor the symphony of flavors in every heavenly slice of Strawberry Sheet Cake. Sweet celebrations await!
