Butter Cake (Sponge Cake) with Strawberries
Ingredients:
For the Butter Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Strawberries:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
- Toss to coat the strawberries and let them macerate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the strawberries to release their juices.
8. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, place it on a serving plate.
- Arrange the macerated strawberries on top of the cake, drizzling some of the juices over the cake for added flavor.
9. Serve:
- Optionally, serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side or on top of the strawberries.
Enjoy your Butter Cake with Strawberries! This delightful dessert features a tender, buttery sponge cake topped with sweet, juicy strawberries, making it perfect for any occasion.
