Soft & Fluffy Strawberry Cake Recipe with Almond Extract – Easy Homemade Fresh Strawberry Cake

This strawberry cake recipe is soft, light, and filled with real fruit flavor. It uses fresh strawberry puree and almond extract to create a rich, slightly sweet aroma and taste. The crumb is tender and delicate, making every slice feel light and enjoyable.

This easy strawberry cake is made with simple pantry ingredients and clear steps. It is suitable for celebrations, gatherings, or everyday baking. The combination of strawberries and almond extract gives this cake a bakery-style flavor while still being easy to prepare at home.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Uses real strawberry puree for authentic flavor
• Soft and fluffy texture from cake flour and egg whites
• Almond extract adds a rich, bakery-style taste
• Simple ingredients and easy method
• Reliable and consistent results
• Perfect homemade strawberry cake for any occasion

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Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups (295 g) cake flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
• 5 large egg whites, at room temperature
• ⅓ cup (80 g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
• 2 tsp almond extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• ½ cup reduced strawberry puree
• Optional: 1 to 2 drops red or pink food coloring

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Ingredient Notes or Substitutions

• Cake flour is recommended for a soft and tender crumb. If using all purpose flour, the texture may be slightly heavier
• Sour cream adds moisture and richness. Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute
• Egg whites create a light and airy structure without adding heaviness
• Almond extract is stronger than vanilla, so it should be measured carefully
• Whole milk adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter
• Strawberry puree must be reduced to avoid excess liquid in the batter
• Food coloring is optional and used only for visual appeal

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Puree

Wash and hull fresh strawberries. Blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. Pour the puree into a saucepan and cook over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally and allow it to reduce until thickened and concentrated to about ½ cup. This step removes excess water and intensifies the strawberry flavor. Once reduced, transfer to a bowl and allow it to cool completely before using.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a cake pan with butter or oil, then line the bottom with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and allows for easy removal after baking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents. This step helps the cake rise evenly during baking.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy in texture. This process incorporates air, which helps create a soft cake.

Add the Egg Whites

Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing. The batter should appear smooth and slightly airy.

Add Sour Cream and Almond Extract

Add the sour cream and almond extract to the batter. Mix until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.

Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed and only until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can affect the final texture of the cake.

Fold in the Strawberry Puree

Gently fold the cooled strawberry puree into the batter using a spatula. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. If using food coloring, add it at this stage and mix gently.

Transfer the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly and smooth the top.

Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the cake is ready.

Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully helps the cake set properly and makes slicing easier.

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Tips for the Best Results

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
• Do not skip reducing the strawberry puree, as excess liquid can affect texture
• Mix the batter gently to avoid overdeveloping gluten
• Use a light-colored metal pan for even baking
• Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time

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Variations or Add-ins

• Add cream cheese frosting for a rich finish
• Layer the cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries
• Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness
• Include a small amount of lemon zest for a fresh flavor contrast
• Turn into a layered strawberry birthday cake for special occasions

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What to Serve With It

• Fresh whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Strawberry sauce or glaze
• Fresh berries
• Tea or coffee

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This easy strawberry cake offers a soft texture, balanced sweetness, and fresh strawberry flavor with a subtle almond note. It is simple to prepare and delivers consistent results, making it a reliable choice for both everyday baking and special occasions.