Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake 🍰🍓✨
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 🧪
1/2 teaspoon baking soda 🧪
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
1 cup buttermilk 🥛
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
1/2 cup vegetable oil 🛢️
2 large eggs 🥚
1 cup granulated sugar 🍚
1/2 cup strawberry puree 🍓
1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional) 🌈
1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
4 cups powdered sugar 🍬
1/2 cup strawberry puree 🍓
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
1-2 tablespoons heavy cream 🥛
A pinch of salt 🧂
Directions:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well mixed.
3. In another large bowl, combine the buttermilk, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, eggs, granulated sugar, and strawberry puree. Stir until everything is smooth and blended beautifully.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If you’re using the red food coloring, add it now and mix until your batter takes on a deep, rich red hue.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
6. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Now, let’s whip up the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting! Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until it’s creamy and fluffy.
8. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until everything is velvety smooth.
9. Add in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until fully incorporated. If your frosting feels too thick, just add heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
10. It’s time to assemble the cake! Once your cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry buttercream on top.
11. Add the second cake layer on top and slather the remaining frosting all over the cake. If you like, garnish with fresh strawberries or sprinkles for that extra touch!
12. Finally, slice and serve this rich and flavorful Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake for a decadent treat!
Enjoy!