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The BEST French Strawberry Cake Recipe

4.5 from 110 reviews

This BEST French Strawberry Cake is a moist and tender dessert featuring a buttery cake base studded with fresh strawberries, topped with a sweet sugar crust. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this cake combines the richness of sour cream and butter with the natural sweetness of strawberries for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 16 ounces strawberries, sliced (about 2 cups)

Topping

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Prepare Pan: Line a 9-inch springform pan or a regular cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
  3. Whip Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, whip the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture turns pale yellow and fluffy.
  4. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth batter.
  5. Add Vanilla: Mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to add flavor.
  6. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and avoid lumps.
  7. Add Flour Mixture and Sour Cream: Gradually add the flour mixture and sour cream alternately to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix well after each addition to form a smooth batter.
  8. Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries to evenly distribute them without breaking.
  9. Pour Batter Into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to create a smooth surface.
  10. Top With Sugar: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the batter to create a sweet crust during baking.
  11. Bake: Bake the cake for approximately 40-45 minutes until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean indicating the cake is done.
  12. Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it gently to avoid breaking.
  13. Serve: Optionally dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar, cut into slices, and enjoy this delicious French strawberry cake.

Notes

  • You can use a regular 9-inch cake pan if a springform pan is unavailable, but parchment lining is essential for easy removal.
  • For extra sweetness, sprinkle powdered sugar just before serving.
  • Make sure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and fluffier texture.
  • Fresh strawberries work best, but you can substitute with frozen if well drained.
  • If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Keywords: French strawberry cake, strawberry dessert, spring cake, berry cake, sour cream cake