We can’t wait to dive into Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe, a fresh twist on a classic dessert that’s perfect for summer celebrations. This delightful treat bursts with juicy strawberries and a light, airy crumb, drawing from simple ingredients that evoke family gatherings and sweet memories.
As food enthusiasts, we’ve tested this recipe to ensure it’s foolproof and full of flavor, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. Join us as we bring Ashley Mac’s beloved creation to your kitchen for an unforgettable bake.
Ingredients
We select only the freshest ingredients for our Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe to deliver a burst of juicy strawberry flavor and a light, airy texture that captures summer’s essence. These simple components come together effortlessly to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistible.
For the Cake
To build the base of our strawberry-infused cake, gather these essentials in the order they are typically prepared:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a fluffy texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness to balance the tart strawberries.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises evenly and stays light.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 large eggs: Beaten well for incorporating air and moisture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Room temperature to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Melted to add rich, creamy depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a subtle aromatic note.
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries: Diced finely to infuse natural tartness and juiciness.
For the Strawberry Filling or Frosting
- 2 cups fresh strawberries: Hulled and mashed to create a vibrant, fruity base.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sifted to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: Softened to whip into a creamy texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: At room temperature for easy blending.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed to add a zesty tang that brightens the strawberries.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: To complement the cake’s flavor without overpowering.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe to life seamlessly, we recommend gathering these essential tools and equipment before you start. This ensures smooth preparation and baking, building on the ingredients we’ve already outlined.
Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need, organized by category for ease:
- Mixing Bowls: We suggest using at least two medium-sized stainless steel or glass mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so opt for a standard set of dry and liquid measuring cups, plus a set of spoons, to measure flour, sugar, milk, and extracts precisely.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: For achieving the perfect light and fluffy texture in Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with beaters will help cream butter and sugar efficiently—aim for at least 200 watts for optimal results.
- Baking Pans: You’ll need two 9-inch round cake pans (non-stick preferred) to bake the layers evenly; grease them well to ensure the cake releases without sticking.
- Whisk and Spatula: A sturdy wire whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, while a silicone spatula is ideal for folding in strawberries gently without deflating the mixture.
- Oven and Oven Thermometer: A reliable oven preheated to 350°F is crucial—use an oven thermometer to verify temperature accuracy, as it directly impacts the cake’s rise and moisture.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, a wire cooling rack allows the cake layers to cool evenly and prevents sogginess, preserving that fresh strawberry flavor we love.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing fresh strawberries, a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board make quick work of slicing and dicing, ensuring uniform pieces for the filling.
If you’re tracking multiple recipes or comparing equipment, here’s a simple table outlining the essential vs. optional tools based on our experience:
| Tool Category | Essential Tools | Optional Tools | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Mixing bowls, Measuring cups and spoons | Food processor for strawberries | Essential tools ensure precision; optional ones speed up prep for efficiency. |
| Baking | Electric mixer, Baking pans, Oven | Stand mixer | Baking tools guarantee even cooking; upgrades enhance ease for frequent bakers. |
| Finishing | Whisk, Spatula, Cooling rack | Piping bag for frosting | Finishing tools maintain texture; extras add professional touches to presentation. |
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move forward and dive into the preparation steps for Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to bake Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake, ensuring a delightful balance of juicy strawberries and light, fluffy texture.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s prepare our ingredients for efficiency and precision. Start by washing 2 cups of fresh strawberries under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel; then, hull and slice them into ¼-inch pieces for the filling and decoration. Measure out 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into separate bowls to keep them organized. For wet components, crack 3 large eggs into a bowl, measure 1 cup of whole milk, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter, and have 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract ready. This preparation ensures our ingredients integrate smoothly, allowing the vibrant strawberry flavors to shine through.
Make the Cake Batter
With ingredients prepped, we mix the batter to create a velvety base that captures the essence of summer. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly combined, forming a fluffy dry mixture. In another bowl, beat the 3 large eggs, then add 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring vigorously for about 1 minute until smooth. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes to form a thick, pourable batter—the aroma of vanilla will begin to entice as it comes together, promising a moist and flavorful cake.
Bake the Cake
Now we transform the batter into a golden delight by baking it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release. Divide the batter evenly between the pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for an even rise. Bake in the center of the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—the kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of baking strawberries and vanilla. Once done, remove the pans and let them cool on a rack for 10 minutes before transferring the cakes to cool completely, ensuring a tender crumb that pairs beautifully with the filling.
Prepare the Strawberry Elements
To elevate our cake with fresh, tangy accents, we prepare the strawberry filling and frosting for a burst of flavor. For the filling, mash 1 cup of the sliced fresh strawberries in a bowl with ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, letting it sit for 5 minutes to release juicy juices. For the frosting, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter in a stand mixer on high speed for 2 minutes until creamy, then gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of the mashed strawberry mixture, whipping for another 3 minutes until light and fluffy—the vibrant pink hue and fresh strawberry tang will make this frosting irresistible and perfectly complement the cake’s lightness.
Assemble and Decorate
Finally, we bring everything together for a stunning, shareable dessert that highlights the cake’s nostalgic charm. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous ½ cup of the strawberry filling evenly over the top, allowing the juices to soak in for extra moisture. Stack the second layer on top, then frost the entire cake with the prepared strawberry frosting using a spatula for smooth coverage, reserving some for decorative swirls. Garnish with the remaining sliced strawberries arranged in a circular pattern, pressing them gently into the frosting for a fresh, vibrant finish—the result is a visually appealing cake with layers of juicy strawberry goodness and creamy texture that will delight your senses and impress at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make preparing Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe even more convenient, we recommend planning ahead. This approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a moist and flavorful cake with that signature juicy strawberry essence. Below, we break down the steps for making components in advance, focusing on storage and assembly tips to maintain the cake’s light texture and vibrant taste.
Preparing the Cake Layers
We suggest baking the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Follow the baking steps from our earlier instructions, then cool the layers completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture and prevent drying. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped layers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before use to preserve the tender crumb and fresh strawberry undertones.
Making the Strawberry Filling and Frosting Ahead
The strawberry filling and frosting can be prepared 1 to 2 days before assembly. For the filling, purée the fresh strawberries as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to intensify, enhancing the bright, tangy notes from the lemon juice and strawberries.
For the frosting, cream the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and any remaining strawberry elements until smooth, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 2 days, but remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency. This step ensures the frosting retains its creamy texture and avoids becoming too firm.
Storage Tips and Timeline
Proper storage is key to keeping Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe fresh and delicious. Here’s a quick overview of make-ahead timelines and methods:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake Layers | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate wrapped in plastic | Prevents sogginess; thaw if frozen |
| Cake Layers (Frozen) | Up to 1 month | Freezer in sealed bags | Thaw in fridge for even texture |
| Strawberry Filling | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate in airtight container | Stir before use to refresh consistency |
| Frosting | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate in airtight container | Bring to room temperature for easy spreading |
Assembly Day Tips
On the day of your event, assemble the cake by layering the components as outlined in our previous steps. If you’ve made elements ahead, give the filling and frosting a quick stir to revive their vibrant strawberry flavors and smooth textures. This method not only saves time but also lets the cake’s aromas develop, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings where you want everything ready without last-minute rush.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake as a simple yet delightful treat that brightens any gathering. It’s perfect for creating those cherished moments with family and friends.
We’re confident you’ll find it easy to master and endlessly rewarding, so give it a go and let the fresh flavors speak for themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe?
Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake Recipe is a refreshing summer dessert featuring juicy strawberries, light texture, and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for family gatherings, evoking nostalgia, and suitable for all baking skill levels. This tested recipe combines classic flavors for an irresistible treat.
What ingredients are needed for Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake?
For the cake, you’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, whole milk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and fresh strawberries. The strawberry filling and frosting require fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, cream cheese, unsalted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients create a flavorful, summer-inspired dessert.
What tools are required to make Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric or stand mixer, baking pans, a whisk, spatula, oven with thermometer, cooling rack, and a knife with cutting board for strawberries. These ensure precision and efficiency in preparing and baking the cake.
How do I prepare Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake?
Start by washing, hulling, and slicing fresh strawberries. Mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) and wet ones (eggs, milk, butter, vanilla) to form batter, then bake until golden. Prepare filling and frosting with strawberries and other ingredients, assemble layers, and garnish with strawberries for a delicious finish.
Can I make Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake cake layers up to 2 days in advance and store them wrapped at room temperature or refrigerated. Prepare filling and frosting 1-2 days ahead for better flavor melding. On assembly day, stir to refresh and layer for easy summer events without rush.
How should I store Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cake?
Store assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. For components, keep unfrosted layers at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for up to a month. Always let refrigerated cake come to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.