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The BEST French Strawberry Cake Recipe


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4 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Leila
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This classic French Strawberry Cake combines a light, fluffy butter cake with fresh strawberries folded throughout, topped with a crunchy sugar crust for a deliciously sweet and tangy dessert perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

  • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Topping

  • 16 ounces strawberries, sliced (about 2 cups)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it reaches the proper baking temperature before the cake goes in.
  2. Line Cake Pan: Prepare a 9-inch springform pan or a similar-sized cake pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  3. Whip Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl or stand mixer, whip the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 4-5 minutes until pale yellow and fluffy to incorporate air and create a light texture.
  4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to fully incorporate and maintain the batter’s consistency.
  5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a warm, aromatic flavor.
  6. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
  7. Add Flour Mixture and Sour Cream: Gradually add the flour mixture and sour cream into the wet ingredients, alternating between the two and starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix each addition thoroughly for even batter texture.
  8. Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries to evenly distribute them without breaking them down too much.
  9. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
  10. Top With Sugar: Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the batter to create a lightly crunchy, sweet crust during baking.
  11. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
  12. Let Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan to set the structure before removing.
  13. Enjoy: Carefully remove the cake from the pan, optionally dust with powdered sugar, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Use a springform pan or line a cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense cake.
  • Fresh, ripe strawberries work best for flavor and texture.
  • You can dust powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant finish.
  • The granulated sugar on top caramelizes during baking to create a nice crunchy crust.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French