Strawberry Ombre Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
A delightful dessert with stunning layers of pink-tinted cake and luscious whipped cream frosting, infused with fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
For the cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, light and fluffy
- 2 teaspoons baking powder, for that perfect rise
- ½ teaspoon salt, enhancing the flavors
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to creamy perfection
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, sweetening the mix
- 4 large eggs, bringing moisture and richness
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, adding warmth
- 1 cup whole milk, for a tender crumb
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, pureed for vibrant flavor
For the frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, creating airy frosting
- ¼ cup powdered sugar, sweetening the frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, for the frosting
- ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberry powder, for color and flavor
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips or crumbles (optional), for decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the whole milk, mixing gently until just combined.
- Stir in the pureed fresh strawberries. Add red food coloring if desired.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
Frosting and Assembly
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Divide the frosting into three bowls, adding strawberry powder to one for pink frosting.
- Layer the cooled cakes with frosting between each layer, using the ombre technique on the sides.
- Decorate the top with white chocolate chips, fresh strawberries, and sprinkles.
- Allow the cake to set before serving.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Substitute with different fruit purees for unique flavors. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.