When you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both elegant and effortless, Easy French Strawberry Cake is the perfect choice. This light and airy cake is a celebration of fresh strawberries, delicate sponge, and a hint of sweetness that’s not overly indulgent. Inspired by the simplicity of French patisserie, this cake is perfect for afternoon tea, summer gatherings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

What makes this French Strawberry Cake so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The sponge cake is soft and moist, while the fresh strawberries add a burst of juiciness and natural sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream elevates it to a dessert that feels both rustic and refined. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and no fancy techniques.

This cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients and timeless flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it with a cup of coffee, or bringing it to a potluck, this Easy French Strawberry Cake is sure to delight. It’s a recipe that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why This Easy French Strawberry Cake?

Selling Points:

• Light and Refreshing: Perfect for summer or anytime you want a fruity dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh strawberries.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• Elegant Presentation: Looks as beautiful as it tastes.
• Versatile: Serve as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast.

What You Need for Easy French Strawberry Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

How to Make Easy French Strawberry Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Prepare the Strawberries: Gently fold half of the strawberries into the batter.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the remaining strawberries on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Cake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth and even batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and tender.
• Arrange Strawberries Nicely: Place the strawberries on top in a decorative pattern for a beautiful presentation.
• Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Serve Fresh: This cake is best enjoyed the day it’s made.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based butter and milk.
• Add Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Use Other Berries: Try raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
• Add Almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for extra crunch.

Make It Healthier

• Reduce Sugar: Use 1/2 cup sugar instead of 3/4 cup.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Skip the Whipped Cream: Serve with fresh fruit or a light yogurt drizzle instead.

Closing for Easy French Strawberry Cake

This Easy French Strawberry Cake is a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and timeless flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a sweet treat, this recipe is a must-try. Don’t forget to let us know how your cake turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy French Strawberry Cake

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
2. How long does this cake last?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
   Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. What can I serve with this cake?
   Pair it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a cup of tea or coffee.
5. Can I make this cake in a different pan?
   Yes, use an 8-inch square pan or a loaf pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
6. Is this cake gluten-free?
   Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
7. Can I add other fruits?
   Yes, try adding peaches, raspberries, or blackberries for variety.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container to keep the cake moist.
9. Can I make this cake vegan?
   Yes, use plant-based butter, milk, and an egg substitute like flax eggs.
10. Why is my cake dense?
    Overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients can cause the cake to be dense.

This Easy French Strawberry Cake is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cake that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

Easy French Strawberry Cake

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
• Prepare the Strawberries: Gently fold half of the strawberries into the batter.
• Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the remaining strawberries on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream if desired.