Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a delightful dessert? The Strawberry Cream Crumb Cake is a perfect blend of fresh strawberries and a luscious cream filling, all topped off with a buttery crumb topping. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s an experience, bringing together the lightness of spring and the warmth of home baking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow, seven-step cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
What Is Spring Baking: Strawberry Cream Crumb Cake in 7 Steps?
Spring Baking: Strawberry Cream Crumb Cake is a deliciously moist cake that highlights the fresh, vibrant flavors of strawberries. This dessert features a tender cake base, filled with a rich cream center and finished off with a golden crumb topping. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a show-stopper at any gathering. You’ll find that each bite is a perfect balance of juicy fruit, smooth cream, and a delightful crunch from the crumb topping.
Why You’ll Love This
This cake is not only **beautifully presented**, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. It’s the right dessert for all skill levels, from **kitchen beginners** to seasoned bakers. The freshness of the strawberries shines, making it an ideal treat for **spring gatherings, birthday parties**, or any time you want to indulge in something sweet yet light. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with a cup of tea or as an after-dinner dessert. You’ll love how easily it comes together and how quickly it disappears!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the structure of the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all other flavors.
- 1 cup milk – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Provides a warm flavor profile.
- For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
- For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crumb mix.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds a caramel-like flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Binds the topping ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – The star of the show!
How to Make
- **Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)**. This is crucial for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- **In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients**: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure they are well mixed, creating a light and airy base for your cake.
- **In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients**: milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combining these separately helps to create a uniform texture in the cake. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
- **Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan**. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This will give your cake an even rise and cook consistently. Set aside while you prepare the cream filling.
- **In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form**. This will create a smooth, creamy filling that complements the strawberries beautifully. Remember to stop whipping once you’ve created soft peaks; over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture.
- **Spread the cream filling over the batter in the baking pan**. Next, evenly distribute the sliced strawberries over the cream layer. Their juices will soak into the cake while baking, adding an extra layer of **moisture** and flavor.
- **Prepare the crumb topping** by mixing the flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping over the strawberries and cream in an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Variations & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Alternative: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Adjust the baking powder as needed, as some blends may already contain leavening agents. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. This will result in a cake that is just as delicious and moist without the gluten.
Berry Blend: While strawberries are the primary focus of this cake, feel free to incorporate other berries such as blueberries or raspberries. Mixing berries not only adds flavor complexity but also enhances the visual appeal of the cake. Ensure the total amount of berries stays around two cups to maintain the cake’s balance.
Dairy-Free Version: If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, consider using almond milk or coconut cream in place of dairy products. Coconut oil can be used instead of butter to keep the texture rich and moist. Use a dairy-free cream cheese for the filling to give it a distinct flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious cake!
Flavored Cream Filling: Add flavors to the cream filling by incorporating a tablespoon of lemon zest or almond extract. This can elevate the taste profile and provide a refreshing twist on the classic. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how effectively it can enhance the overall flavor of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid making the mistake of **overmixing the batter**; this can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy one. Ensure that you mix just until the ingredients are combined. Another common error is not preheating the oven, which can result in uneven baking. Always check that your oven is at the correct temperature before placing your cake inside.
When whipping the cream, be cautious not to over-whip, as this can cause the cream to become grainy. Be attentive and stop once soft peaks form for that luxurious texture. Finally, if you’re using frozen strawberries, be aware that they can introduce additional moisture; drain them well and pat dry to prevent a soggy cake.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To store your Strawberry Cream Crumb Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it taste even better! If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the unbaked batter and cream filling separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to bake it fresh when you’re ready.
To reheat, cut a slice and place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, warm it in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the crumb topping’s texture. Just ensure that it’s warmed through; no one wants a cold crumb cake!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, make sure to thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess in the cake. Fresh strawberries provide a more vibrant flavor, but frozen berries can be a convenient option, especially when fresh fruit is out of season.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Wait to add the crumb topping until just before serving to maintain its crispiness. Simply store it covered in the fridge, and it will be just as delicious the following day. This makes it perfect for parties!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the middle. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, your cake is ready. If you see wet batter on the toothpick, bake it for a few more minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent drying out.
Can I customize the cake flavors?
Yes, feel free to add flavors as desired. You can mix in citrus zest, different extract flavors, or even swap the strawberries for other fruits. The cream filling can also be flavored with options like lemon or almond extract, allowing for personalization to match your taste.
Why is my cake dense?
A dense cake is often a result of overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to measure the flour accurately and mix only until combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture. If this happens, you may want to try again with more careful measurements to achieve the desired effect.
Conclusion:
Making the Strawberry Cream Crumb Cake is a journey that begins with simple, wholesome ingredients and ends with a beautiful dessert that everyone will love. The light texture of the cake combined with the fresh strawberries and rich cream makes it truly irresistible. Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful scent of spring, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a festive brunch, or just as a sweet indulgence after dinner, this cake promises to delight and satisfy. Happy baking!
