Strawberry cake

Fluffy Strawberry Cake: A Delicious and Aromatic Treat

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes the simplest dishes bring us the greatest joy. The fluffy strawberry cake is a perfect example in this regard. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but the final result is a soft, aromatic, and flavorful cake that will delight both young and old.

A brief history of fluffy cakes
Fluffy cakes have a long history, being appreciated in various cultures for their airy texture and refined taste. These cakes are often associated with moments of celebration and festivity, served at birthdays or family gatherings. Adding fresh fruits, such as strawberries, not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of freshness, turning each slice into an explosion of tastes.

Necessary ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 9 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 g of soft butter
- 12 heaping tablespoons of flour
- 8 tablespoons of milk
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (optional)
- 1-2 drops of vanilla essence
- 200 g of fresh strawberries (or other preferred fruits)

Necessary utensils
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer or a whisk
- A silicone spatula
- A baking tray (approximately 20x30 cm)
- Baking paper

Step by step: Preparing the cake
1. Preparing the ingredients
Before you start, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help the eggs and butter incorporate better into the batter. Also, wash the strawberries well and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size.

2. Beat the eggs with the sugar
In a large bowl, add the 3 eggs and the 9 tablespoons of sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs together with the sugar at medium speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture becomes light in color and doubles in volume. This is an essential step, as the air incorporated will make the cake fluffy.

3. Add the butter and flavors
Once the eggs are well beaten, add the soft butter (make sure it is soft enough to incorporate easily), the lemon zest, and the vanilla essence. Continue mixing to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

4. Incorporate the milk
Now it's time to add the 8 tablespoons of milk, gently mixing with the spatula to avoid losing the air in the mixture. The milk will add extra moisture to the cake.

5. Add the flour and baking powder
In another bowl, sift the 12 tablespoons of flour together with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. This step is important to avoid lumps in the batter. Add the flour mixture to the wet composition in three batches, mixing with the spatula each time until everything is homogeneous.

6. Prepare the tray
Line the baking tray with baking paper, leaving the edges to hang slightly over. This trick will help you remove the cake more easily after baking, without damaging it.

7. Pour the batter into the tray
Pour the batter into the prepared tray and level the surface with the spatula.

8. Add the strawberries
Place the halves of strawberries on top of the batter, sprinkling them evenly. They will bake together with the cake, bringing a delicious note of freshness.

9. Bake the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tray on the middle rack. Bake the cake for 40 minutes or until it turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and serve
After the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully grab the baking paper and remove the cake from the tray. Let it cool completely on a cooling rack. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Useful tips
- Removing the baking paper: Be careful when removing the baking paper, as the cake is very fragile. It is recommended to let it cool completely to prevent breaking.
- Variations of the recipe: You can replace the strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, to create a cake with different flavors. You can also add nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Serving: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a fruit sauce. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect dessert.

Nutritional information
This fluffy strawberry cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving, having a high carbohydrate content due to the flour and sugar, but also offers a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants from the strawberries. Consuming fresh fruits helps maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour to make the cake healthier. However, the texture may be slightly different.

2. Can I make the cake in advance?
Of course! The cake keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without frosting. You can keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion
The fluffy strawberry cake is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to any day. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cake will prove to be a guaranteed success. Don't hesitate to experiment with different fruits and flavors, and don't forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy!