Description
This delightful Southern-style sheet cake features a tender, moist crumb infused with a fresh strawberry purée and finished with a silky strawberry cream cheese frosting. It is a simple, mix-by-hand dessert that perfectly captures the vibrant flavor of peak-season berries in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh or frozen strawberries (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup neutral vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz full-fat brick-style cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup high-quality strawberry jam
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Fresh sliced strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the vegetable oil, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes until fully emulsified.
- Pulse the strawberries in a food processor to create a slightly textured purée, then whisk the purée and milk into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Sift the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt directly into the bowl and fold gently with a spatula just until the flour streaks disappear.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature before frosting.
- For the frosting, whip the room-temperature cream cheese, strawberry jam, a touch of sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt until smooth and soft peaks form.
- Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake and garnish with fresh strawberry slices just before serving.
Notes
To achieve the best texture, ensure all your refrigerated ingredients are brought to room temperature before you begin mixing. If you find the frosting too soft due to a warm kitchen, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up before spreading. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but for the best flavor, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American