Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup fresh strawberry puree (blended fresh berries)
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside until you are ready to combine it with the wet ingredients.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Continue mixing for about 2-3 minutes until the texture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Mix in the fresh strawberry puree and the milk. The batter might look slightly curdled at this stage because of the fruit acid, but do not worry—it will smooth out once you add the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, followed by the vanilla and heavy cream. Whip on high speed for 3 minutes until the frosting is light and airy.
- Once the cake is entirely cool, spread a thick layer of vanilla buttercream over the top. Use an offset spatula to create decorative swirls. Cut into 9 squares and top each piece with a fresh strawberry slice if desired.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes