Description

This signature homemade strawberry cake captures the essence of summer by using a concentrated fruit reduction instead of artificial syrups. The result is a tender, moisture-rich crumb topped with a silky Swiss-style strawberry buttercream that is perfect for any special occasion.

Ingredients

32 ounces fresh or frozen strawberries
Unsalted butter, room temperature
Granulated sugar
Egg whites
Whole milk
Strawberry emulsion (LorAnn oils)
Lemon juice and zest
All-purpose flour
Pasteurized egg whites
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Pink food coloring
Powdered sugar

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Instructions

Puree strawberries in a blender, then simmer in a saucepan with sugar, lemon zest, and juice for 40-60 minutes until reduced to exactly two cups; cool completely.
Preheat oven to 350ºF (176°C) and grease two 8-inch cake pans with butter or pan release.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, strawberry reduction, emulsion, vanilla, lemon zest, juice, and optional food coloring.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Beat room temperature butter and sugar in a stand mixer for 3 to 5 minutes until very pale and fluffy.
Add egg whites one at a time to the butter mixture, allowing 15 seconds between each addition until smooth.
Alternately add the dry and wet ingredients in three parts on low speed, mixing only until just incorporated.
Divide batter between pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whip pasteurized egg whites and powdered sugar for 5 minutes, add butter in chunks and whip for 10 minutes, then fold in the remaining strawberry reduction and vanilla.

Notes

To ensure a perfectly smooth emulsion, make sure your milk and egg whites are truly at room temperature before you begin mixing. If your buttercream appears curdled while whipping, continue beating for several minutes as the fat needs time to fully incorporate into the egg whites to become silky and shiny.

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 35 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American