Strawberry Birthday Cake with Bows

Name: Strawberry Birthday Cake with Bows
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; Fondant or pre-made bows (optional)

Highlighted under: Cheesy Goodness

I always look forward to celebrating birthdays, and this Strawberry Birthday Cake with Bows has become my go-to recipe for those special occasions. The combination of fluffy vanilla cake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream truly makes it a standout dessert. Every bite is a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it perfect for both kids and adults alike. Plus, the adorable bows add a charming touch that everyone loves. Trust me, this cake will become a memorable centerpiece at your next celebration!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-16T16:10:18.707Z

One of my favorite memories is baking this Strawberry Birthday Cake for my niece's birthday. The process was filled with laughter and a bit of mischief as we tried to sneak in some extra strawberries before layering them on the cake. I’ve learned that using fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones enhances the flavor tremendously, making every bite burst with freshness.

What really sets this cake apart is the whipped cream frosting, which I've perfected by whipping just until soft peaks form. This keeps it light and fluffy, preventing it from being overly sweet and heavy. The little bows are made from fondant, adding charm and elegance, and they are surprisingly easy to create!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Whipped cream frosting is light and fluffy, making each bite heavenly.
The decorative bows make it visually stunning, perfect for celebrations.

      

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making a Strawberry Birthday Cake, selecting fresh strawberries is crucial for achieving optimal flavor and texture. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any that are dull or overly soft, as they may indicate overripeness. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake's structure.

To enhance the strawberries' natural sweetness, consider macerating them before layering. Simply toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This process draws out their juices, resulting in a syrupy consistency that not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake moist.

Whipping the Cream to Perfection

The whipped cream frosting plays a vital role in the overall structure and taste of the cake. For the best results, start with well-chilled heavy cream and mixing bowl. This helps achieve the desired volume and creates light, airy peaks. When you beat the cream, pay attention to the texture; whisk until soft peaks form, which means when you lift the whisk, the cream should hold a gentle shape without collapsing.

Avoid overwhipping, as this can turn the cream grainy and eventually lead to butter. If you find yourself getting close to that point, a quick tip is to stop and gently fold in a bit of fresh cream to salvage the mixture. Adding the powdered sugar gradually not only sweetens the cream but also stabilizes it. If you plan to make the cake ahead of time, consider adding a stabilizer, such as instant pudding mix, to keep the frosting intact longer.

Presentation and Serving Ideas

Presentation is key for a show-stopping birthday cake, and adding decorative bows can elevate the overall look. You can make these bows using fondant or purchase pre-made options from a baking supply store. Place them strategically on top or around the sides of the cake to create a professional finish that draws attention and awe from your guests.

For serving, consider a cake stand that complements the cake's generous layers and colors. Pair this Strawberry Birthday Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent experience. If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, keeping in mind that the strawberries may release more moisture over time. To freeze, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces tightly, allowing you to enjoy a slice of celebration even after the occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

2 cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Fondant or pre-made bows (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and let cool completely on wire racks.

Make the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top and add half of the sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the whole cake with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate with more strawberries on top and add bows if desired.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the whipped cream. Additionally, ensure your cake layers are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make this cake lactose-free, consider using dairy alternatives. Replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free spread and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk in the cake batter. For the whipped cream, there are non-dairy whipping creams available that perform well and will yield a comparable texture and flavor when whipped.

For those looking to reduce sugar intake, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. While the structural integrity may be slightly affected, adjusting for liquid ratios and the cake's baking time may help produce a desirable cake with fewer calories.

Variations Worth Trying

While strawberries shine as the star of this cake, feel free to mix and match with other fruits. Raspberries or blueberries can be added for a mixed berry birthday cake, providing a tart contrast to the sweet frosting and cake beneath. Consider layering a thin spread of lemon curd under the whipped cream for a zesty punch that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Another fun variation is to infuse the cake with flavor by adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. This subtle twist can elevate the vanilla cake base, making it even more complex and enjoyable. Keep the decoration reflective of the chosen flavors—almond slivers or lemon zest on top can create a stunning visual appeal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake layers rise unevenly or domed in the center, this could be due to overmixing or an incorrect oven temperature. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated and mix the batter just until combined. It’s also helpful to rotate the cakes halfway through baking to ensure even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.

Should the frosting turn too soft or lose its shape quickly, it may be because the cream was not chilled adequately. If this happens, try refrigerating the frosted cake for about 30 minutes to help it firm up. Alternatively, incorporate additional powdered sugar or a stabilizer to thicken the frosting if you find it hard to spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries give the best flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well.

→ How long will the cake last?

If stored in the refrigerator, the cake will last up to 3 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I substitute the whipping cream?

You can use store-bought whipped topping as a substitute, but homemade whipped cream offers a better texture and taste.