Easy Strawberry Snack Cake: Your New Go-To Berry Dessert!

Slice of easy strawberry snack cake topped with fresh strawberries.

There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels both comforting and celebratory all at once. Our Strawberry Snack Cake is exactly that – a humble yet utterly delightful cake bursting with the fresh, sweet flavor of ripe strawberries. It’s the kind of treat that brightens any day, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon moment or sharing it with loved ones.

Forget complicated layers or elaborate decorations. This snack cake is all about ease and pure, unadulterated flavor. It’s wonderfully moist, incredibly tender, and packed with juicy berry goodness in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it's destined to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You'll Fall in Love with This Strawberry Snack Cake

This recipe isn't just easy; it's a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Here’s why this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser:

  • Effortlessly Simple: No stand mixer required! A bowl and a whisk are all you need for the batter.
  • Bursting with Fresh Flavor: The star of the show, fresh strawberries, infuse every crumb with natural sweetness and a hint of tartness.
  • Incredibly Moist: Thanks to a secret ingredient (yogurt or sour cream!), this cake stays tender and flavorful for days.
  • Perfectly Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a light dessert.
  • Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this subtly sweet and fruity treat.

The Stars of the Show: Key Ingredients

This delightful cake relies on a handful of pantry staples, with fresh strawberries taking center stage. Knowing a little about them can help you make the best cake!

Choosing Your Strawberries

For the best flavor, opt for ripe, fragrant strawberries. Strawberries are a type of aggregate fruit known for their vibrant red color and sweet-tart taste. Freshness makes a huge difference here!

  • Fresh Strawberries: Diced into small pieces, they distribute evenly throughout the batter, ensuring a burst of fruit in every bite.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for a tender crumb.
  • Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Our leavening agents that give the cake its beautiful rise and light texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the berries.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
  • Plain Yogurt or Sour Cream: The secret to an incredibly moist and tender cake with a delicate tang.
  • Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter: Contributes to the cake's soft texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors, adding a warm, aromatic note.

How to Bake Your Easy Strawberry Snack Cake

Making this cake is a breeze. Just a few simple steps stand between you and a slice of berry heaven. You'll find the full, detailed recipe card below, but here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

You’ll begin by whisking together the wet ingredients until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, the dry ingredients come together. Then, the two are combined gently, just until no streaks of flour remain – remember, overmixing is the enemy of a tender cake! Finally, the star of the show, the fresh strawberries, are folded in before the batter is poured into a prepared pan and baked to golden perfection. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Tips for Baking Success

  • Don't Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, leading to a tough cake.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs, yogurt, or sour cream at room temperature emulsify better, creating a smoother, more uniform batter.
  • Gently Fold Berries: Be gentle when adding the strawberries to avoid crushing them. You want those beautiful, distinct pieces of fruit.
  • Pan Size Matters: An 8x8 or 9x9 inch square baking pan is ideal for this recipe, giving you the perfect snack cake thickness.

Serving Suggestions for Your Snack Cake

This Strawberry Snack Cake is wonderful all on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate it even further:

  • A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Simple, elegant, and adds a touch more sweetness.
  • Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream is a classic pairing.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.
  • Lemon Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with a tablespoon or two of lemon juice for a bright, tangy topping that complements the strawberries beautifully.
  • Alongside Coffee or Tea: It's called a snack cake for a reason! Perfect with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Perhaps with some Cherry Rhubarb Coffee Bars with Cardamom and Anise for variety?

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it moist. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.

If you love berry-filled treats, you might also enjoy our Blueberry Lemon Mole Bars with Meringue for another delightful baked good option!

Conclusion

This Easy Strawberry Snack Cake is more than just a recipe; it's a little slice of happiness. It's the perfect embodiment of simple pleasures, showcasing the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries in a tender, moist cake that's truly irresistible. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and guarantees delicious results every time. Go ahead, bake a batch and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this snack cake?

Yes, absolutely! If using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before folding them into the batter. This prevents excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Snack Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. It also freezes well, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months.

What can I substitute for yogurt or sour cream?

For similar moisture and a slight tang, buttermilk is an excellent substitute for yogurt or sour cream. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I add a glaze to my Strawberry Snack Cake?

Definitely! A simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or lemon juice) or even a light cream cheese frosting would be wonderful additions to this cake, adding an extra layer of sweetness and elegance.

Print
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Slice of easy strawberry snack cake topped with fresh strawberries.

Easy Strawberry Snack Cake


  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightfully moist and tender cake bursting with fresh strawberries, perfect for any time of day.


Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted, or ½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup (120g) plain yogurt or sour cream, room temperature
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced (about 8 oz)


Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 or 9x9 inch square baking pan, or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter (or oil) and granulated sugar until well combined.
Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in the yogurt (or sour cream) until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
Step 7: Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
Step 8: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. If desired, scatter a few extra strawberry slices on top for garnish.
Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
Step 10: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For the best flavor and texture, ensure your egg and yogurt/sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. Don't overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. This cake is delightful on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
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