Strawberry cake

Strawberry Cake – A sweet and fluffy delight, perfect for any occasion

Who can resist a cake made with fresh strawberries? This simple and quick recipe is ideal for those who love fluffy desserts, as well as for those who want to bring a touch of summer flavor into their kitchen, no matter the season. The strawberry cake is not just a dessert, but also a wonderful way to use seasonal fruits and create sweet memories around the table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients you need:
- 100 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (about 125 g) sugar
- 1 cup (about 150 g) flour
- 1 packet (10 g) baking powder
- 1 small plain yogurt (about 150 g)
- a few fresh strawberries (about 200 g), sliced
- a pinch of salt
- cocoa powder (optional, for decoration)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This will help achieve a fluffy texture for the cake. Also, I recommend using fresh strawberries, but you can experiment with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a personalized version.

2. Creaming the butter: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the two ingredients at medium speed until they become a light-colored and fluffy mixture. This is an essential step, as the air incorporated at this stage will make the cake light and fluffy.

3. Adding the eggs: Continue to add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step ensures uniform integration of the eggs and helps maintain a fine texture.

4. Incorporating the yogurt: Add the plain yogurt and mix well. This will not only add a delicious flavor but will also make the cake moister and more aromatic.

5. Combining the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help eliminate lumps and ensure an even distribution of the baking powder in the batter.

6. Mixing the ingredients: Begin to gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and egg mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a dense cake.

7. Adding the strawberries: Cut the strawberries into slices or cubes, depending on your preference, and gently fold them into the batter. They will add not only a delicious flavor but also a vibrant color and an appetizing look.

8. Preparing the pan: Grease a loaf pan with oil and place a sheet of parchment paper at the bottom. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring you can easily remove it after baking.

9. Baking: Pour the batter into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. If desired, you can sprinkle a bit of cocoa on top for a more interesting look. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done by using a toothpick: insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

10. Cooling and serving: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Place it on a platter and slice it.

Serving suggestions:
To add a touch of elegance, you can serve the cake with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream will make the perfect combination for a summer dessert.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each slice of cake contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. This strawberry cake provides a source of carbohydrates and protein from the eggs and yogurt, as well as vitamins and antioxidants from the fruit, making it a healthier choice for a dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even mashed bananas.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake sliced. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.

By experimenting with this strawberry cake recipe, you can discover unique and flavorful combinations. Whether you make it for a small gathering with friends or to treat yourself, each bite will be a true delight! Enjoy it with a fragrant tea or a warm coffee for a complete experience. Bon appétit!