Introduction
Welcome to a slice of Southern comfort! This Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is the epitome of homey sweetness, blending the rich flavors of butter and cream cheese with the refreshing burst of fresh strawberries. It’s a delightful treat perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Each bite is pleasantly moist, with a creamy texture and a hint of fruity goodness that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s dive into making this delicious cake that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring it’s ready to hold all that delicious batter.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a lovely buttery aroma.
- Gradually add in the granulated sugar, mixing until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture is light and airy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the fragrant vanilla extract to add a touch of warmth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, letting their vibrant color and sweet scent mix into the batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a beautiful, level cake.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your cake is perfectly baked.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your home with a delightful aroma.
- Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of elegance, if desired.
Notes or Tips
This cake can be served warm or at room temperature, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of lemon zest to the batter for a zesty twist that complements the strawberries perfectly. Enjoy every bite!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best texture and fluffiness, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This allows them to cream together thoroughly, creating a velvety base. Folding in the strawberries gently ensures they stay intact while providing bursts of flavor throughout the cake. Using a toothpick to check for doneness is a reliable way to ensure your cake is baked just right.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries yield the best results, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving!
Conclusion
This Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings friends and family together over a shared love of sweetness. With its moist texture and delightful strawberry flavor, this cake is destined to create sweet memories. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful treat, and watch as smiles spread with each scrumptious bite!