11/08/2024
Giant Strawberry Seismic Cake 🍓🎂
Ingredients 🍓
For the Strawberry Cake Layers:
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup fresh strawberry puree
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Red or pink food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant cake)
For the Strawberry Filling:
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup fresh strawberry puree
For the Strawberry Glaze (Seismic Effect):
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup strawberry juice or puree
1 tbsp heavy cream (or more to reach desired consistency)
Red or pink food coloring (optional)
For Decoration:
Fresh strawberries (whole and sliced)
Whipped cream (optional)
Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional, for a more seismic look)
Instructions 🍓🎂
Prepare the Cake Layers:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the strawberries break down.
Add the cornstarch-water mixture and continue to stir until the filling thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh strawberry puree for a light, strawberry-flavored frosting.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of strawberry filling over the top.
Add the second cake layer and repeat the process.
Top with the third cake layer and frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting, smoothing it over the top and sides.
Make the Seismic Strawberry Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry juice or puree, and heavy cream until smooth.
Add a few drops of red or pink food coloring for a more vibrant look if desired.
Pour the glaze over the top of the frosted cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic "seismic" effect.
Decorate:
Garnish the cake with whole and sliced fresh strawberries, arranging them decoratively on top.
Optionally, add whipped cream, edible glitter, or sprinkles to enhance the visual impact of your seismic cake.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to allow the frosting and glaze to set before slicing.
Slice and enjoy!
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Baking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12-14 slices 🍓🎂
