Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into how to prepare this decadent cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water and the mashed strawberries. Feel free to add a few drops of pink food coloring to enhance the color!
- Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting: beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract until fluffy and smooth.
- Melt the white chocolate chips with the heavy cream. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over your frosted cake for that perfect drip effect.
- Assemble your cake and top it with fresh strawberries. Optionally, add more pink food coloring to the frosting for that extra pop!
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your Ultimate Pink Strawberry Drip Cake!
Best ways to enjoy it
There’s no wrong way to enjoy this cake! It’s perfect on its own, but consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with leftover cake (which is rare!), store it properly to maintain freshness. Place slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll be good for up to three months!
Helpful cooking tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a fluffier cake, ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake from becoming dense.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! Substitute other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for the strawberry puree, or experiment with different flavorings like almond extract. You can also add a layer of jam between your cake layers for an extra burst of flavor!
Common questions
What is the prep time for this cake?
The prep time is around 20-30 minutes, and baking will take an additional 30-35 minutes.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly. Frost them just before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can replace milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative in the frosting.
Now that you have all the knowledge you need, it’s time to gather those ingredients and make your very own Ultimate Pink Strawberry Drip Cake!
