Strawberry Cream Bundt Cake

Welcome to a delightful twist on a beloved classic: the Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake. This exquisite dessert takes the comforting flavors of traditional strawberry shortcake and presents them in an elegant bundt form, making it a showstopper for any gathering. Imagine a rich, buttery, and incredibly moist cake, baked to golden perfection, then generously filled with layers of homemade whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries. It’s a culinary masterpiece that promises to impress both visually and gastronomically.

This bundt cake recipe is not only incredibly easy to follow but also consistently yields perfect results, earning it a spot in every baker’s dream repertoire. The harmonious combination of the dense, buttery cake texture with the ethereal creaminess of the whipped cream creates a mouth-watering sensation that truly melts in your mouth. And let’s not overlook the vibrant burst of fresh strawberries that punctuates every bite, adding a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness. It’s a versatile dessert, perfect for celebrating special occasions, brightening up a casual brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet treat during strawberry season. Get ready to create a dessert that will be remembered long after the last slice is savored.

Why This Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a dessert that stands out from the crowd, this Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is an absolute must-try. Its unique presentation and unparalleled flavor profile make it an instant favorite. Here’s why you need to add this recipe to your baking list:

• A Unique Take on a Classic: Forget the traditional biscuits; this recipe reimagines strawberry shortcake as a sophisticated bundt cake. The bundt form creates a more substantial and impressive cake, while still delivering all the beloved flavors of the classic dessert. It’s a fresh perspective on a nostalgic favorite, offering a delightful surprise with every slice.
• Stunning Presentation: The elegant ring shape of the bundt cake naturally adds a touch of beauty and sophistication to any event or gathering. Drizzled with powdered sugar and adorned with fresh strawberries, this cake becomes an effortless centerpiece. Its striking appearance makes it ideal for holidays, birthdays, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without extensive decorating efforts.
• Light and Refreshing Flavor: Thanks to the abundance of fresh strawberries and homemade whipped cream, this cake boasts a wonderfully light and refreshing taste. It avoids being overly sweet or heavy, making it a perfect dessert after a rich meal or a delightful afternoon treat. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of the strawberries cut through the richness of the cake, creating a balanced and invigorating flavor experience.
• Perfect for Any Season: While it truly shines during peak strawberry season in spring and summer, this bundt cake is a welcome dessert any time of the year. The comforting buttery cake provides warmth in cooler months, while the fresh fruit and whipped cream offer a taste of sunshine. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to your cravings, making it a year-round go-to for dessert enthusiasts.

The choice to use homemade whipped cream and generously fresh strawberries as the filling for this bundt cake isn’t just about taste; it’s about elevating the entire dessert experience. These fresh, high-quality ingredients transform a simple cake into a sophisticated culinary delight. The difference in flavor and texture when using fresh ingredients is profound, creating a dessert that feels truly special and lovingly prepared.

Essential Ingredients for Your Bundt Cake

Crafting the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired taste and texture. Below is an overview of the key ingredients you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

Ingredient Notes

• Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show! Always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness provide the best flavor and juiciness for both the filling and garnish. Frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch for the filling if thoroughly thawed, but fresh is highly recommended for optimal results and vibrant taste.
• Granulated Sugar: This fine white sugar is crucial for sweetening both the cake batter and the strawberry filling. It helps to balance the tartness of the berries and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and golden crust.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: The foundation for your lush, homemade whipped cream. Ensure it’s cold before whipping for the best volume and stability. Do not substitute with half-and-half or light cream, as they will not whip properly.
• Vanilla Extract: A staple in baking, pure vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic sweetness that beautifully complements the fresh strawberries. Use high-quality vanilla for the most impactful flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this finely ground sugar is essential for achieving a smooth, light, and airy homemade whipped cream. It also helps stabilize the whipped cream slightly.
• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structural component of the cake. Using all-purpose flour ensures a balanced texture that is dense yet moist. Substituting with other types of flour, such as cake flour or self-rising flour, may significantly alter the cake’s texture and density.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent is key to giving the cake its beautiful rise and light texture. Always check the expiration date of your baking powder to ensure it’s fresh and active for the best results.
• Salt: A small amount of salt is vital in any baking recipe. It enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and making the cake taste richer and more complex, rather than just sweet.
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you complete control over the total salt content in your recipe. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for proper creaming with sugar, which is crucial for a light and airy cake batter.
• Milk: Adds essential moisture to the cake, contributing to its tender and velvety crumb. Whole milk is generally recommended for its fat content, which adds richness and a superior flavor. Room temperature milk incorporates more smoothly into the batter.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together, add richness, moisture, and contribute to the cake’s structure and rise. Like butter, make sure your eggs are at room temperature. Cold eggs can cause the batter to curdle and result in an uneven mixture, impacting the final texture of your bundt cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Perfection

Creating this magnificent Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is a rewarding experience. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a flawless and delicious outcome. Remember, precise execution and attention to detail are the keys to baking success.

Making the Bundt Cake:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the cake goes in, promoting even baking. Generously spray a 10-cup bundt cake pan with a baking spray that contains flour, or thoroughly grease and flour the pan yourself. This crucial step prevents the cake from sticking and helps it release cleanly. Set the prepared pan aside.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring a consistent rise. Set this bowl of dry ingredients aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate, larger bowl, using either a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened unsalted butter until it is light in color and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating on low speed until it is well combined and the mixture becomes pale and airy. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter, which contributes to the cake’s tender texture.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the room temperature eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and the milk to the wet ingredients. Begin and end with the flour mixture. A good rhythm is to add about one-third of the flour, mix until just combined, then half of the milk, mix, then another third of the flour, the remaining milk, and finally the last third of the flour. Mixing alternately helps prevent the batter from becoming too thick or too thin at any point, promoting a smooth consistency. Remember to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated without overmixing.
6. Fill the Pan and Bake: Carefully spoon the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan, gently spreading the top with a spatula to level it out. Place the bundt pan in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a wooden skewer (or toothpick) inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Prepare Fillings While Baking: While the cake is baking, take this time to prepare the strawberry filling and homemade whipped cream. Having these ready ensures a smooth assembly process once the cake has cooled. (Directions for these components follow below).
8. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the bundt pan for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle. After this initial cooling, carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack and allow it to cool completely to room temperature before assembling. This can take at least an hour.

Crafting the Strawberry Filling:

1. Macerate Strawberries: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced fresh strawberries with the granulated sugar. Stir them together until the sugar coats the berries. Let this mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. During this time, the sugar will draw out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a luscious, syrupy filling.
2. Create Strawberry Puree: Scoop out about ½ cup of the macerated strawberry mixture into a separate measuring cup. Using a hand blender, blend this portion until smooth, creating a vibrant strawberry puree or sauce. If you don’t have a hand blender, you can easily mash the berries with a fork or use a mini food processor. This puree will add an extra layer of strawberry flavor and moisture.
3. Store Until Assembly: Set both the whole macerated strawberries and the strawberry puree aside. If preparing far in advance, refrigerate them until you are ready to assemble the cake to maintain their freshness.

Whipping the Cream:

1. Whip Ingredients: In a clean, dry, large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, whip the mixture on medium speed for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can quickly turn into butter. The whipped cream should be fluffy and hold its shape.
2. Chill Until Ready: Immediately refrigerate the homemade whipped cream until the cake has completely cooled and you are ready to assemble. Keeping it chilled helps maintain its airy texture and prevents it from deflating.

Assembling Your Masterpiece:

1. Slice the Cake: Once the bundt cake has cooled completely to room temperature, carefully use a long, serrated knife to slice the cake horizontally into two even halves. Take your time to ensure a clean, level cut.
2. Position the Top: Gently lift the top half of the cake and set it aside on a separate plate.
3. Apply Strawberry Puree: Spoon the ½ cup of fresh strawberry puree (the one you blended earlier) evenly over the bottom half of the bundt cake. This layer adds intense strawberry flavor and moistness to the center of the cake.
4. Pipe Whipped Cream: Transfer the chilled whipped cream into a piping bag fitted with your desired tip (or simply snip off the corner of a sturdy plastic bag). Pipe a generous layer of whipped cream over the strawberry puree on the bottom cake half. If you don’t have a piping bag, a spoon or offset spatula works just as well to spread the cream.
5. Add Macerated Strawberries: Carefully spoon the remaining macerated strawberries (the whole diced ones) over the layer of whipped cream. Ensure they are evenly distributed across the cake.
6. Top with Second Cake Half: Gently place the top half of the bundt cake back onto the bottom, cut-side down. Align it carefully to re-form the original bundt shape.
7. Garnish and Serve: For a beautiful finishing touch, dust the assembled cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. Arrange additional fresh whole or sliced strawberries on top of the cake, especially in the center cavity, for an extra pop of color and freshness. Slice and serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures!

Expert Baking Tips for a Perfect Bundt Cake

Achieving a bakery-quality Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is easier than you think with these helpful tips and tricks. These insights will guide you through the process, ensuring your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly structured every time.

• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: One of the most common mistakes in cake baking is overmixing the batter. Once you’ve added the flour, mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough, dense, and dry cake, which is the opposite of the light and tender crumb we’re aiming for.
• Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: Always ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Room temperature ingredients emulsify more effectively, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This results in a lighter, fluffier cake with a superior texture, as cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter and a denser cake.
• Adjust Baking Time for Dark Pans: If you are using a dark-colored bundt pan, be aware that these pans absorb more heat and tend to cook cakes faster than lighter-colored pans. To prevent overbaking, start checking your cake for doneness around the 45-minute mark, even if the recipe specifies a longer range.
• Use a Wooden Skewer for Doneness: For thick cakes like bundt cakes, a standard toothpick might not be long enough to reach the center. Instead, I highly recommend using a wooden skewer (like a kebab skewer) to test for doneness. Insert it into the deepest part of the cake; if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.
• Prioritize Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: The success of this cake heavily relies on the quality of its components. For the best flavor and texture, use only fresh, ripe strawberries and high-quality heavy whipping cream. The difference in taste will be noticeable and greatly enhance your dessert.
• Allow Adequate Cooling Time: Patience is a virtue, especially when assembling this cake. It is absolutely crucial that the bundt cake cools completely to room temperature before you attempt to slice and fill it. Assembling a warm cake will cause the homemade whipped cream to melt immediately, turning your beautiful creation into a messy disaster.

Essential Baking Equipment

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience, ensuring ease and precision. Here are the key pieces of equipment you’ll need for this Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake:

• 10-Cup Bundt Cake Pan: The star equipment that gives this cake its iconic shape. A good quality, non-stick bundt pan is essential for easy release and a perfectly formed cake.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need several large mixing bowls for combining dry ingredients, creaming butter and sugar, and whipping cream. Having various sizes makes the process more organized.
• Electric Mixer: Whether a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer, this tool is invaluable for creaming butter and sugar until light and fluffy, and for whipping heavy cream to perfect peaks. It saves time and effort compared to manual mixing.
• Serrated Knife: Essential for cleanly slicing the cooled bundt cake horizontally into two even halves without tearing or crumbling the delicate cake structure.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Provides essential airflow around the entire cake, ensuring it cools completely and evenly, preventing condensation and sogginess.
• Piping Bag (optional, but recommended): While you can use a spoon, a piping bag with a snipped tip makes it much easier to evenly distribute the whipped cream layers within the cake, creating a professional and appealing finish.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and quality of your Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake, especially with its perishable components. Planning ahead can also make your baking day smoother.

Refrigeration

Due to the fresh strawberry filling and homemade whipped cream, this cake is perishable and requires refrigeration. Store any leftover slices or the entire assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, it will still be delicious after a couple of days. Bring it to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture, as cold cake can be a bit firm.

Freezing

Cooked bundt cakes generally freeze very well. To ensure the best quality, I highly recommend freezing the cake before adding the whipped cream and strawberries. Allow the baked bundt cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with preparing the fresh strawberry filling and whipped cream, and assemble as directed. This method ensures the freshest possible filling.

Make-Ahead Strategy

To reduce stress and save time, you can prepare certain components of this Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake in advance. The baked bundt cake itself can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature (or refrigerate if your kitchen is very warm). However, I strongly advise against making the whipped cream or assembling the cake until just a few hours before you plan to serve it. Freshly whipped cream is always superior, and assembling too early can lead to the cake becoming soggy as the strawberries release their juices.

Delightful Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is a complete dessert experience on its own, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate it even further, making it perfect for various meal pairings.

• Classic Companions: Serve a slice alongside a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream beautifully contrasts with the cake’s texture and temperature. Alternatively, a dollop of extra homemade whipped cream can never go wrong.
• After a Savory Meal: This sweet and refreshing cake is an excellent palate cleanser after a hearty meal. Consider pairing it with your favorite comfort food, such as a rich Baked Ziti with Ground Beef. The lightness of the cake provides a perfect counterpoint to the savory pasta.
• Springtime Celebration: Embrace bright springtime flavors by enjoying this treat after a delicious and zesty meal like Lemon Ricotta Pasta. The citrus notes of the pasta will lead perfectly into the fresh strawberry flavors of the bundt cake.
• Rich Pasta Dessert: For those who love a balanced meal, I highly recommend ending a creamy pasta dish, such as a decadent Tuscan Shrimp Pasta, with a slice of this strawberry bundt cake. The fruitiness and sweetness provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main course.
• Beverage Pairings: A tall glass of iced tea, a light sparkling wine, or even a classic lemonade would beautifully complement the cake’s flavors, making it an even more enjoyable experience.

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with these exciting variations to customize it to your taste or seasonal availability.

• Explore Different Fruits: While strawberries are traditional, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to other fruits. Instead of strawberries, try using an equal amount of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or a vibrant mix of your favorite berries for a colorful and flavorful twist. Peaches or mixed stone fruits could also work wonderfully in the summer.
• Indulge with Chocolate: For the chocolate lovers, incorporating chocolate can add a decadent dimension. Fold miniature chocolate chips or chunks into the cake batter before baking for pockets of melty goodness. After assembly, consider drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the whipped cream or topping the cake with elegant chocolate shavings.
• Amplify Strawberry Flavor: If you desire an even more intense strawberry flavor, you have a few options. Add a teaspoon or two of good quality strawberry extract to the cake batter. Alternatively, for a fun color and flavor boost, you can dissolve a small packet of strawberry-flavored gelatin in a minimal amount of hot water and add it to the cake batter.
• Nutty Additions: For a delightful crunch and nutty aroma, consider folding ½ to 1 cup of finely chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the cake batter. This adds another layer of texture and flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
• Citrus Zest Infusion: Brighten the cake’s profile by adding the zest of one lemon or orange to the cake batter. Citrus zest pairs wonderfully with strawberries and can add a subtle, refreshing zing to the overall flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Delicious Related Recipes to Explore

If you loved this Strawberry Shortcake Bundt Cake, you’re sure to enjoy these other delightful desserts that offer unique flavors and comforting experiences.

• Dr Pepper Brownies: Indulge in these unique Dr Pepper Brownies, whether on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable brownie experience. These rich, chocolaty brownies offer a subtle hint of Dr Pepper flavor, providing a unique fudgy and cakey texture that’s truly irresistible.
• Caramel Tres Leches Cake: Discover the lusciousness of Trilece or Caramel Tres Leches, a light sponge cake generously soaked in a rich blend of three milks. It’s then crowned with fluffy whipped cream and a delicate, thin layer of buttery caramel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
• Raspberry Poke Cake: This Raspberry Poke Cake is a vibrant and incredibly easy dessert, making it perfect for summer potlucks or a delightful weeknight treat. Enjoy a moist and flavorful cake with bursts of bright raspberry goodness in every single bite.

More Irresistible Strawberry Recipes

For those who can’t get enough of the sweet and versatile strawberry, here are more recipes that celebrate this fantastic fruit in various delightful forms.

• Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes: If you adore Strawberry Shortcake, then you absolutely must try this adorable Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake recipe next. They capture the fresh taste of summer in every single bite, making them an undeniable crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
• Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies: These Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate easy treat, perfect for any gathering or a quick craving. They are wonderfully soft, delightfully chewy, and packed with an intense, fruity strawberry flavor that kids and adults alike will adore.
• No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups: Enjoy a classic dessert with effortless ease using these No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Cups. They are a deliciously simple way to enjoy cheesecake, ideal for parties, picnics, or potlucks as they are easy to transport and serve.
• Chocolate Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting: Here’s a treat that is guaranteed to brighten your day and satisfy any chocolate craving. These Chocolate Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting offer the perfect balance of rich chocolate cake and a sweet, fruity strawberry topping.

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