There’s nothing quite like the delightful swirl of sweetness that fills my kitchen as I whip up a Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries. The moment the luscious batter graces my mixing bowl, nostalgia washes over me—it brings back memories of baking for loved ones on special occasions. As the cake rises in the oven, the enticing aroma of vanilla and buttermilk dances through the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation.
This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a celebration of love and joy, perfect for brightening up a romantic dinner or simply indulging on a weekday. Light, moist, and adorned with a dreamy strawberry frosting, each slice offers a burst of flavor and a sprinkle of happiness. Whether you’re exploring your culinary skills or seeking a show-stopping treat for a gathering, this Pink Velvet Cake is here to elevate your dessert game. Join me as we dive into this easy-from-scratch recipe that promises to impress and delight.
Why is Pink Velvet Cake so special?
Delightful Taste: Each bite of pink velvet cake is a moist, flavor-packed experience that combines the rich taste of buttermilk with the sweetness of strawberries.
Easy to Make: This recipe is designed for bakers of all levels, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it an ideal choice for a fun baking day.
Perfect for Celebrations: Its vibrant color and delicious flavor make it a showstopper for special occasions, especially romantic ones like Valentine’s Day.
Customizable Joy: You can easily switch frosting flavors or turn this into cupcakes, ensuring there’s a delightful option for everyone.
Nostalgic Aroma: As it bakes, the heavenly scent of vanilla and strawberries fills your home, awakening those cherished memories.
Treat yourself and amaze your guests with this enchanting dessert that’s set to impress; check out more variations to inspire your creativity!
Pink Velvet Cake Ingredients
• Dive into the heart of baking with these essential ingredients!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure; feel free to substitute with cake flour for a lighter result.
- Granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness; coconut sugar can be used for a unique flavor.
- Unsalted butter – Ensures richness; make sure it’s softened to blend easily.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and depth; mix milk with vinegar for a similar effect if you don’t have buttermilk.
- Large eggs – Binds the ingredients; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Vanilla extract – Elevates flavor; almond extract is a delightful alternative.
- Pink gel coloring – Gives that characteristic hue; opt for gel for a more vibrant cake.
- Baking powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking soda – Works with baking powder for optimal leavening.
- Salt – Balances sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Frosting
- Strawberry frosting – Perfectly complements the cake and adds luscious sweetness; consider using cream cheese frosting for a rich twist.
- Fresh strawberries – Adds bright flavor and freshness; remember to wash, chop, and pat dry before using them in your cake.
Indulge in this Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries, and watch how it turns any occasion into a delightful celebration!
How to Make Pink Velvet Cake
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Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes, creating a beautiful, airy base.
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Mix in the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and pink gel coloring. Beat until smooth and well combined; the batter should be a lovely pink hue that excites the senses!
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for a perfect rise.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Mix just until combined to avoid over-mixing, which can make your cake dense—aim for a smooth, lump-free batter!
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Pour the batter into a greased/floured heart-shaped pan (8×3 dimensions) or two round pans (8×2 dimensions). Ensure an even distribution for uniform baking.
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and spring back lightly to the touch.
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Cool completely the cake in the pans before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, slice the cake in half horizontally to create layers.
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Fill the cake with strawberry frosting and top with fresh strawberries, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting for a delightful finish.
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Decorate with shredded coconut and additional strawberries if desired to create a whimsical touch that’s simply irresistible!
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle some edible glitter on top for a festive look.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cake, let it cool completely, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain moisture. The strawberry frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge—this keeps it fresh and ready for assembly. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cake with frosting and fresh strawberries, allowing it to come to room temperature before enjoying this decadent dessert. This prep ahead method not only saves time but ensures your cake is just as delicious when it’s time to celebrate!
Pink Velvet Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Pink Velvet Cake by exploring these delightful twists!
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Cupcake Conversion: Transform the cake batter into adorable cupcakes, yielding about 24 delightful mini treats perfect for any celebration.
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Chocolate Cream Cheese: Swap the strawberry frosting for a rich chocolate cream cheese frosting—perfect for those who love a chocolatey twist! A great contrast to the cake’s lightness.
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Cherry Delight: Try using Maraschino cherry frosting for a bright, cherry-flavored version that brings a new fruity note to your dessert table.
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Custard Filling: For an added surprise, fill your cake layers with homemade vanilla custard, creating a creamy contrast to the fluffy cake. It’s a delightful textural twist!
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Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits into your cake; think blueberries or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) to your batter or as a topping for an added crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the moist cake.
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Spiced Version: Sprinkle in a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice that adds depth and an aromatic twist to each slice.
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Tropical Touch: Swapping some flour for coconut flour can introduce a tropical flavor, and topping with toasted coconut will take your cake on a sunny vacation!
Get inspired by these variations, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Storage Tips for Pink Velvet Cake
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Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
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Refrigerator: Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its flavors, especially with the strawberry frosting.
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Freezer: Wrap slices of the Pink Velvet Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for a delightful taste experience.
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Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, lightly microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t dry out, which enhances the flavor and moisture.
What to Serve with Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries?
Bring your dessert experience to life with thoughtful accompaniments that enhance this delightful cake.
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Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries not only brightens the plate but complements the strawberry flavors beautifully, adding a refreshing touch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the moist cake, creating a delightful contrast in texture and taste. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cake, making each bite a luxurious treat.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and airiness to every slice, enhancing the cake’s rich flavors without overpowering them.
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Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Elevate your presentation with chocolate-covered strawberries. Their sweetness and slight bitterness create a perfect balance, making the whole dessert experience elevated and indulgent.
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Sparkling Wine: Pair your cake with a glass of bubbly Prosecco or champagne. The effervescence cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the celebratory feel of special occasions.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves sprinkled on top not only add a beautiful pop of color but also introduce a refreshing aroma, brightening the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, swap out traditional whipped cream with coconut whipped cream, adding a creamy texture that pairs well with the fruity notes of the cake.
Every addition serves to elevate the charm of your Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries, creating a memorable dessert experience.
Expert Tips for Pink Velvet Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easy blending, which creates a smoother batter and better texture in your cake.
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Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense Pink Velvet Cake, so be gentle!
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Fresh Baking Powder: Always check your baking powder for freshness to ensure your cake rises perfectly. Old baking powder can result in a flat cake.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
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Color Gradation: When using pink gel coloring, add it gradually. Start with a small amount and mix until you reach your desired shade—this prevents the cake from becoming too dark!
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for a few days and can be refrigerated for longer enjoyment.
Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting fresh strawberries?
Choose strawberries that are bright red, plump, and firm. Avoid those with dark spots or signs of mold. For the best flavor, it’s ideal to pick strawberries that are in season.
How should I store leftover Pink Velvet Cake?
Store your leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you notice it drying out, you can also refrigerate it in the same container, where it can last for another 3 days.
Can I freeze Pink Velvet Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, let it cool completely, then slice it into portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Pink Velvet Cake?
A few common pitfalls include using cold ingredients—make sure everything is at room temperature. Over-mixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until combined. Also, always check the freshness of your baking powder; old baking powder can prevent your cake from rising properly!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, remember that this recipe includes dairy and eggs. For a dairy-free option, you can try substituting buttermilk with a plant-based milk and vinegar combination. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
What can I substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute at home! Mix 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens and curdles slightly, creating a perfect buttermilk alternative for your Pink Velvet Cake.
Indulge in Pink Velvet Cake with Strawberries at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and pink gel coloring. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased/floured heart-shaped pan (8x3) or two round pans (8x2). Ensure even distribution.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack. Slice the cake in half horizontally.
- Fill with strawberry frosting and top with fresh strawberries, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate with shredded coconut and additional strawberries if desired.