Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake Recipe
Introduction: The Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is a decadent and moist dessert that brings together the rich flavors of butter, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries. This cake is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and buttery goodness, making it a beloved treat for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and special occasions. With its smooth texture and irresistible taste, this cake will transport you straight to the heart of Southern comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it at a birthday party, this cake is sure to impress.
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Southern cakes with a touch of modern flair. The richness of cream cheese and butter, coupled with the burst of strawberry flavor, makes each bite an indulgent experience. The cake is versatile, too, and can be customized with different berry toppings or frosting variations, depending on your preferences.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (or homemade cake mix)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the strawberry topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the yellow cake mix, flour, and salt. Stir until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting and topping.
2. Making the strawberry topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the topping to cool completely before spreading it over the cake.
3. Preparing 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, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream (or milk) to adjust the consistency. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
4. Assembling the cake:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread an even layer of the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Spoon the strawberry topping evenly over the frosting, allowing some of the juices to drip down the sides.
- For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh strawberries or mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serving:
- Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. The cake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
History: The Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is a twist on traditional Southern layer cakes, known for their richness and comfort. In the South, desserts are an essential part of any gathering, and cakes made with cream cheese and butter are beloved for their tender crumb and moist texture. The addition of fresh fruit, particularly strawberries, creates a seasonal touch that highlights the best of the region’s bounty.
Though there are many variations of Southern butter cakes, this specific recipe highlights the use of strawberries as a fresh and vibrant topping. Strawberries have long been a popular fruit in Southern cuisine, often grown locally and enjoyed in a variety of desserts, from pies to cobblers. The Southern love for combining fruits with creamy elements like cream cheese and butter makes this cake a true Southern classic.
Formation and Technique: The method of this cake combines the easy-going approach of using a boxed cake mix with the richness of homemade ingredients like cream cheese and butter. While the cake itself is baked in a simple way, the texture is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the combination of sour cream and cream cheese in the batter. The addition of the strawberry topping offers a contrast of fresh fruitiness, creating a delightful balance with the rich cake base.
The frosting, made from cream cheese and butter, ties everything together with its smooth, velvety texture. The slight tanginess of the cream cheese in the frosting complements the sweetness of the cake and strawberries, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Conclusion: The Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition. This cake combines the best of both worlds: the richness of a butter cake with the freshness of strawberries and the smoothness of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just as a special treat, it’s a cake that brings people together and leaves everyone asking for more.
Lovers of Southern Cuisine will appreciate the moist texture and the tangy-sweet combination of flavors. This cake is perfect for those who adore the old-fashioned charm of Southern desserts but want a touch of modern sweetness and sophistication. Its versatility means you can adapt it to your taste, whether by adding other fruits, flavoring the frosting differently, or experimenting with different cake mixes. Ultimately, this cake is an unforgettable tribute to Southern dessert culture.
Lovers of Baking will also find joy in the process, as the method is simple yet rewarding. The cake’s beauty lies in its simplicity, and with the right balance of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s bound to be a family favorite for years to come.