Fluffy White Cake with Strawberries: The Ultimate Summer Dessert

Nothing says summer quite like a fluffy white cake with fresh strawberries! This light and airy dessert is the perfect balance of soft vanilla cake, juicy berries, and a touch of creamy frosting. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is a must-try. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with natural flavors, it’s a refreshing and elegant dessert that’s easy to make. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to create the best white cake with strawberries that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any summer gathering!

A Light and Airy Cake Perfect for Summer

Summer calls for refreshing, light desserts, and this fluffy white cake with strawberries is the ultimate treat! Unlike heavy, dense cakes, this recipe is designed to be soft, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth—perfect for warm weather. The delicate crumb and subtle vanilla flavor pair beautifully with juicy, ripe strawberries, making each bite both sweet and refreshing.

Why This Cake is Perfect for Summer

• Light and Fluffy Texture – Made with cake flour and whipped egg whites, this cake has a delicate, cloud-like consistency that feels light rather than heavy.
• Natural Sweetness from Fresh Strawberries – Instead of overly sugary fillings, fresh strawberries provide a burst of fruity freshness and balance the sweetness of the cake.
• No Heavy Frosting – A simple whipped cream topping or light buttercream keeps the cake fresh and airy, making it ideal for warm-weather gatherings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re planning a picnic, barbecue, birthday party, or summer brunch, this cake is an elegant yet easy choice.

The Secret to an Ultra-Fluffy Cake

To achieve the perfect moist and fluffy texture, a few key techniques make all the difference:

• Use Cake Flour – It has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, creating a tender, fine crumb.
• Separate and Whip the Egg Whites – Folding in whipped egg whites adds extra lightness and volume to the batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a denser cake. Instead, gently fold the ingredients together to keep the cake airy.
• Bake at the Right Temperature – Baking at a moderate temperature ensures even rising and prevents the cake from becoming too dry.

Strawberries: The Ultimate Summer Fruit

Strawberries are the perfect complement to this white cake. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness enhance the vanilla flavor, making the dessert feel light and refreshing. For the best results:

• Choose ripe, bright red strawberries for maximum flavor.
• Slice and macerate them with a little sugar to release their natural juices, creating a delicious syrup for drizzling over the cake.
• Pair with whipped cream for a classic summer combination.

This cake is not only beautiful but also incredibly satisfying, making it a staple for summer celebrations. Whether you enjoy it chilled with fresh berries or topped with a hint of powdered sugar, every bite will feel like a taste of sunshine!

Key Ingredients for the Best White Cake with Strawberries

To create a fluffy, moist, and flavorful white cake, choosing the right ingredients is essential. Each ingredient plays a role in achieving the perfect texture, taste, and balance. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have ingredients and how they contribute to making the best white cake with strawberries.

1. Cake Flour – The Secret to a Soft and Tender Crumb

• Using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour is key to achieving a delicate and airy texture. Cake flour has a lower protein content, which means:
• Less gluten formation, resulting in a softer crumb.
• A fine and light structure, preventing the cake from feeling dense.
• Better absorption of moisture, keeping the cake from drying out.

Tip: If you don’t have cake flour, you can make a substitute by mixing ¾ cup all-purpose flour + 2 tablespoons cornstarch for every cup of cake flour needed.

2. Baking Powder – Helps the Cake Rise

Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake become light and fluffy. It creates tiny air bubbles in the batter, ensuring the cake rises evenly and has a soft texture.

Tip: Always check the expiration date on your baking powder! Using expired baking powder can result in a dense cake that doesn’t rise properly.

3. Butter & Oil – The Perfect Balance of Moisture and Flavor

A combination of unsalted butter and vegetable oil gives the cake the best of both worlds:

• Butter adds a rich, classic flavor and enhances the cake’s structure.
• Oil keeps the cake extra moist and tender, preventing it from drying out.

Tip: Make sure your butter is softened (not melted) before mixing to create a smooth batter.

4. Sugar – Sweetness and Structure

Granulated sugar does more than just sweeten the cake. It also:

• Helps trap air during mixing, creating a lighter texture.
• Works with butter to give the cake a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.

Tip: For extra depth of flavor, try using a mix of white sugar and a little powdered sugar in the batter.

5. Egg Whites – Essential for a Classic White Cake

• To achieve the signature fluffy and light texture of a white cake, only egg whites are used (no yolks). Whipping the egg whites and gently folding them into the batter:
• Creates a soft, airy cake without extra heaviness.
• Gives the cake a delicate structure and smooth crumb.
• Keeps the cake bright white, perfect for pairing with strawberries.

Tip: Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature before whipping to get the best volume.

6. Vanilla Extract – Enhancing the Flavor

Even though this is a white cake, vanilla extract is an essential ingredient. It adds a warm, sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best results.

Tip: If you want an extra-special touch, try using vanilla bean paste for a richer vanilla taste!

7. Fresh Strawberries – The Star Ingredient

No white cake with strawberries would be complete without fresh, juicy strawberries! They add natural sweetness, a pop of color, and a refreshing contrast to the cake’s soft texture.

How to use them:

• Fresh sliced strawberries layered between cake and frosting.
• Macerated strawberries (mixed with a little sugar) for extra juiciness.
• Whole strawberries for an elegant topping.

Tip: Choose strawberries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant for the best flavor! If you need help preparing them, check out this step-by-step guide on how to cut strawberries for the best technique.

8. Whipped Cream or Buttercream Frosting – The Perfect Topping

The frosting completes the cake, adding a creamy, smooth finish that ties everything together. You can choose between:

• Whipped Cream – Light, airy, and refreshing for summer.
• Buttercream Frosting – Richer and slightly sweeter for a more indulgent treat.

Tip: If using whipped cream, stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent it from deflating over time.

How to Make a Fluffy White Cake with Strawberries

Creating a light, airy, and flavorful white cake with strawberries requires the right techniques and a bit of patience. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect balance of texture, moisture, and flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

A well-mixed batter is the foundation of a great cake. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and fluffy texture:

Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pans

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
• Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Sift the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, sift together
  • 2 ½ cups cake flour (for a light texture)
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder (helps the cake rise)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
• Sifting prevents clumps and ensures even distribution of ingredients.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter with 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
• This step incorporates air into the batter, creating a soft and airy texture.

Add the Wet Ingredients

• Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for a classic, sweet flavor.
• Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, alternating with the flour mixture, until fully combined.
• Don’t overmix! Overmixing can develop gluten, making the cake dense instead of fluffy.

Step 2: Whip and Fold in the Egg Whites

To create a fluffy, cloud-like texture, we use egg whites only (no yolks).

Whip 6 egg whites in a clean, dry bowl using an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.

• Soft peaks mean the egg whites should hold their shape but still be slightly soft and bend at the tips.

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula.

• Fold carefully to maintain the airiness—don’t stir vigorously!
• This step makes the cake extra light, fluffy, and delicate.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

• Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent the cake from sinking.

Cool the cakes completely before assembling.

• Let them sit in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• This prevents the cake from breaking when you frost it.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberries

Strawberries add freshness, color, and natural sweetness to the cake.

Slice & Macerate the Strawberries

• Hull and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries.
• Toss them in 2 tablespoons of sugar and let sit for 15-20 minutes.
• This process releases their natural juices, making them sweeter and juicier.

Alternative Options

• Keep the strawberries fresh for a firmer texture.
• Make a strawberry compote by cooking sliced strawberries with a little sugar and lemon juice.

Step 5: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Choose Your Frosting

• Whipped Cream: Light and fresh, perfect for summer.
• Vanilla Buttercream: Richer and slightly sweeter for a classic taste.

Layer the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread a layer of whipped cream or buttercream evenly over the top.
• Add a generous layer of sliced macerated strawberries.
• Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process.

Decorate the Cake

• Arrange whole or sliced strawberries on top for a beautiful finish.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with strawberry syrup for extra sweetness.
• Optionally, add mint leaves for a fresh touch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect White Cake with Strawberries

A light, fluffy white cake with fresh, juicy strawberries is a dream dessert, but achieving the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and presentation requires a few expert tricks. Follow these pro tips to make sure your cake turns out soft, moist, and absolutely delicious!

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients for the Best Flavor

The quality of your ingredients makes a significant difference in the final result. Opt for fresh, high-quality components to enhance the taste and texture.

• Use real unsalted butter instead of margarine or butter substitutes for the best flavor.
• Choose pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste rather than artificial vanilla for a rich and natural aroma.
• Select fresh, ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant for optimal sweetness.
• Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour to achieve a soft, delicate crumb.

2. Achieve the Perfect Fluffy Texture

A light and airy texture is essential for a great white cake. These key techniques will help you achieve it:

• Whip the butter and sugar together for at least two to three minutes until light and fluffy to incorporate air into the batter.
• Separate and whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter to create a delicate, airy structure.
• Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Scooping directly from the bag can lead to excess flour, making the cake dense.
• Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten, which can make the cake tough.

3. Master the Baking Process

Even with the best cake batter, improper baking techniques can lead to disappointing results. Follow these steps to ensure even baking and the right texture:

• Preheat the oven for at least 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure a stable temperature.
• Use the correct cake pans—8-inch or 9-inch round pans work best for even baking.
• Avoid opening the oven door too soon, as this can cause the cake to sink in the center. Check for doneness only after 25 minutes.
• Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the cake is ready.

4. Preparing the Strawberries for Maximum Flavor

Fresh strawberries are a key component of this cake. To enhance their taste and texture, follow these tips:

• Macerate the strawberries by tossing them with a little sugar and letting them sit for 15-20 minutes. This process releases their natural juices and enhances their sweetness.
• Use firmer strawberries for decorating to ensure they hold their shape and look fresh on the cake.
• Pat the strawberries dry with a paper towel before layering them in the cake to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.
• Add the strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming too soft or releasing too much juice into the frosting.

5. Frosting and Assembling the Cake Like a Pro

The way you assemble and frost the cake can impact both its appearance and texture. Use these tips for a professional finish:

• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming runny.
• Chill the cake layers in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before assembling. This helps firm up the cake, making it easier to frost smoothly.
• Use a thin layer of frosting as a crumb coat before applying the final layer. This helps trap any loose crumbs and creates a polished look.
• If using whipped cream frosting, stabilize it with a little powdered sugar or cornstarch to help it hold its shape longer.
• Decorate with fresh strawberries just before serving to maintain their bright color and firm texture.

Serving and Storing Your White Cake with Strawberries

A beautifully made white cake with strawberries deserves to be served and stored properly to maintain its freshness, flavor, and texture. Whether you’re presenting it for a special occasion or saving leftovers for later, here are the best techniques to ensure your cake stays delicious and visually stunning.

1. The Best Way to Serve Your Cake

A cake should look as good as it tastes. Proper serving techniques help maintain its structure and presentation while enhancing the experience.

Let the Cake Reach the Right Temperature

• If your cake has been stored in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the butter in the cake and frosting to soften slightly for a better texture and taste.

Use a Sharp, Serrated Knife for Clean Slices

• A serrated knife (like a bread knife) works best for cutting soft cakes without squishing them.
• Wipe the knife with a damp towel between cuts to ensure clean, crumb-free slices.

Serve with Extra Garnishes for a Stunning Presentation

• Fresh strawberries: Arrange whole or sliced strawberries on top or around the plate for extra elegance.
• A light dusting of powdered sugar: Adds a delicate and professional touch.
• Drizzle with strawberry sauce or chocolate syrup: For an extra indulgent treat.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream: Complements the flavors beautifully.

2. How to Store White Cake with Strawberries

Proper storage is key to keeping your cake fresh and moist. Since this cake contains fresh fruit and possibly whipped cream frosting, it requires special care.

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days) – Room Temperature

• If you plan to eat the cake within a day or two, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 24 hours—but only if it’s unfrosted or covered with a stable buttercream.
• Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent drying out.
• If your cake has whipped cream or fresh fruit filling, it must be refrigerated.

Refrigeration (3-4 Days) – Best for Freshness

• Since strawberries release moisture over time, storing your cake in the fridge helps prevent sogginess.
• Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to avoid absorbing odors from other foods.
• If the cake has whipped cream frosting, consider stabilizing it with a little powdered sugar or cornstarch to help it hold its shape longer.
• Before serving, let the refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to soften.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months)
If you want to save cake for later, freezing is an excellent option.

For Unfrosted Cake Layers:

• Wrap each completely cooled cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours before frosting and serving.

For Frosted Cake:

• Place the cake in the freezer uncovered for about 1 hour until the frosting hardens.
• Wrap it gently in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and store in an airtight container.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Tip: Avoid freezing cakes with fresh strawberries on top, as they can become mushy when thawed. Instead, add fresh fruit right before serving.

3. How to Keep Your Cake from Getting Soggy

Since strawberries release moisture, they can make the cake soggy if not handled properly. Here’s how to prevent that:

• Pat strawberries dry before adding them – This removes excess water that could seep into the cake.
• Use a thin layer of frosting or chocolate ganache between the strawberries and the cake – This creates a barrier to keep moisture from soaking into the cake layers.
• Assemble the cake just before serving if using lots of fresh strawberries – This keeps the fruit from breaking down and releasing juices.

4. Reviving Leftover Cake for a Fresh Taste

If your stored cake seems a little dry, try these tricks to restore moisture:

• Microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds to warm up the cake and make it taste freshly baked.
• Add fresh whipped cream and extra strawberries to give it a fresh and flavorful boost.
• Brush the cake layers with simple syrup (a mix of sugar and water) to help restore moisture.
• Try another delicious strawberry dessert with this Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe for a rich and gooey twist on classic strawberry cakes.