Penulis A **gourmet cake with strawberry** is a sophisticated dessert that combines the fresh, natural sweetness of strawberries with high-quality cake ingredients and premium fillings, often creating a luxurious, balanced flavor profile. The strawberries can be used in a variety of ways—whether fresh, macerated in sugar, pureed into a sauce, or incorporated into fillings like strawberry mousse or jam.
Here are some common types of **gourmet cakes with strawberry**:
1. Strawberry Shortcake Cake
A modern take on the classic shortcake, this cake features fluffy layers of sponge or chiffon cake, layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. For a gourmet twist, the cream can be infused with vanilla bean or laced with a hint of liqueur like Grand Marnier.
2. Strawberry & Cream Cake
This elegant cake combines moist layers of vanilla or almond cake with a silky mascarpone or cream cheese frosting. Sliced strawberries are often arranged between the layers, and the top is adorned with fresh berries, sometimes glazed for a shiny, polished look.
3. Strawberry Ganache Cake
In this dessert, the cake layers—often rich chocolate or vanilla—are filled with a luscious strawberry compote or puree and finished with a layer of smooth chocolate ganache. The tangy-sweet strawberries balance beautifully with the richness of the ganache.
4. Strawberry Mousse Cake
A light, airy mousse made from pureed strawberries is layered between delicate sponge or genoise cake. The mousse is often enriched with cream or mascarpone to give it a luxurious, velvety texture.
5. Strawberry-Balsamic Cake
A more refined, unique flavor profile can be achieved by pairing strawberries with aged balsamic vinegar, creating a sophisticated balance of sweetness and acidity. This might be combined with a rich buttercream or whipped cream frosting, and garnished with fresh strawberries.
6. Strawberry Almond Cake
A flavorful almond cake layered with fresh strawberries and a light whipped cream or almond-flavored frosting. The nutty undertones of the almond cake complement the sweet, slightly tart strawberries beautifully.
Gourmet strawberry cakes often feature artistic touches, such as candied strawberries, edible flowers, or decorative sugar work. They are designed not only to taste exceptional but to look visually stunning for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or other celebrations. The key to a gourmet strawberry cake is using the highest quality strawberries and complementary ingredients to highlight the fruit's natural sweetness and flavor.
Making a **gourmet strawberry cake** involves using fresh, high-quality ingredients and creating layers of flavor and texture that enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries. Here’s a recipe for a **Gourmet Strawberry Cake** with layers of vanilla cake, fresh strawberry filling, and a creamy frosting.
Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker consistency)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for adjusting consistency)
For Decoration:
- Fresh strawberries (sliced)
- Optional: Edible flowers, mint leaves, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup
Instructions:
1. Make the Vanilla Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, **cream** the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients in 3 parts, alternating with the milk in 2 parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine the "chopped strawberries", sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture begins to thicken, about 10 minutes.
- If you want a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the strawberry mixture. Continue to cook until the filling thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the "cream cheese" and "butter" together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and beat until fluffy and well-combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tbsp of heavy cream or milk to reach a spreadable consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to **level** the tops of the cakes if needed.
- Place the first cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top.
- Spoon the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the frosting, ensuring it's spread to the edges.
- Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting. Smooth the frosting around the sides and top for an elegant finish.
- Decorate the top of the cake with fresh sliced strawberries. You can also add edible flowers, mint leaves, or drizzle some strawberry syrup for extra flair.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting and filling. This also helps the flavors meld together.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips for a Gourmet Touch:
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries
The quality of the strawberries makes a big difference in both the flavor and texture of the cake.
- Consider adding a layer of strawberry jam
For extra strawberry flavor, spread a thin layer of homemade or high-quality strawberry jam between the cake layers before adding the fresh strawberry filling.
- Use a vanilla bean
in the cake or frosting for a more luxurious flavor.
- Optional
Add a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, to the frosting or strawberry filling to give the cake a subtle depth.
This gourmet strawberry cake will impress guests with its beautiful layers and fresh flavors, perfect for a special occasion or as an indulgent treat!
EmoticonEmoticon