Description
This delightful Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake features a tender crumb infused with real berry puree and topped with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting. Perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings, it offers an authentic fruit flavor that is far superior to any boxed mix.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberry puree (from approximately 1 lb fresh or frozen strawberries)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh sliced strawberries for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Place strawberries in a food processor or blender and pulse until they form a puree, then stir the puree and milk into the sugar mixture.
- Sift the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly into the bowl.
- Gently whisk or stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese, strawberry jam, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt on medium-low speed until light and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake and top with fresh sliced strawberries just before serving.
Notes
For the best results, ensure all your refrigerated ingredients like eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature to prevent lumps in your batter and frosting. If you prefer a more vibrant pink color, add a tiny drop of pink gel food coloring to the batter before baking. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting stable and the fruit fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American