Strawberry Crumb Cake

Soft and tender, Strawberry Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that makes any occasion special. This cake features fresh strawberries and a buttery brown sugar crumb topping, making it a standout choice for brunches, picnics, or dessert. Its moist texture and sweet flavor will leave you craving more, especially during the warm Spring and Summer months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and a buttery crumb topping creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or dessert – this cake fits any time of day!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s an ideal treat to bring to gatherings or share with family.
• Seasonal Freshness: Using fresh strawberries not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color to your table.

Tools and Preparation

Getting the right tools ready is crucial for a successful baking experience. Make sure you have these essentials on hand before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 8×8-inch metal baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding batter gently to maintain its fluffiness.
• Whisk: A must-have for blending ingredients smoothly, ensuring a light and airy batter.

Ingredients

Soft and tender butter cake with fresh strawberries and butter brown sugar crumb topping. This cake is absolutely moreish and perfect for a Spring or Summer brunch!

For the Cake Batter

• ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp (120g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (84g) salted butter, melted (or add a pinch of salt with unsalted butter)
• 6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• ⅓ cup (80ml) sour cream
• 1 ⅓ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup (80ml) milk

For the Strawberry Layer

• 3 cups (420g) chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 ½ tbsp (13g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp (12g) granulated sugar

How to Make Strawberry Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on each side. If using a glass baking dish, remember to adjust the baking time by adding an extra 10–20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping

• In a medium bowl, combine flour, both sugars, and salt if using unsalted butter. Whisk until there are no lumps of brown sugar.
• Add melted butter to dry ingredients. Stir until evenly combined.
• Toss the mixture with your fingertips to form large crumbs. Cover with a tea towel and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until pale and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time while whisking until very light and creamy. Mix in sour cream.
• Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture using a spatula until mostly combined.
• Pour in milk and continue folding until the batter is smooth. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 4: Add Strawberries

Combine flour with granulated sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over chopped strawberries and toss until evenly coated. Scatter them over the batter in the pan.

Step 5: Top with Crumbs

Evenly scatter clumps of crumb topping over the strawberries to cover them completely.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes or until crumbs are lightly golden and the cake feels firm when touched. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean without wet batter. Allow cooling on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Crumb Cake, perfect for any spring or summer gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Crumb Cake

Strawberry Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a refreshing contrast.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or other seasonal berries to enhance the fruity flavor and presentation.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cake for those who love a rich pairing with their strawberries.

Breakfast Delight

• Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day.

How to Perfect Strawberry Crumb Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Fresh Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If they are too soft, they might break down too much during baking.

• Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test towards the end of baking. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready.

• Cool Before Serving: Let the cake cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the crumb structure and makes it easier to cut.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crumb Cake

Pairing your Strawberry Crumb Cake with complementary side dishes can enhance its flavors and make for an unforgettable meal. Consider these tasty options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with mixed berries and melons provides refreshing contrast.
3. Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled over whipped cream offers delightful texture alongside each slice.
4. Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, serve with coconut cream as a rich alternative to regular whipped cream.
5. Coffee or Tea: Hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea create a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying dessert.
6. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea complement the sweetness of strawberry while adding a citrus kick.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cake.
8. Nuts: Toasted nuts offer crunch and flavor depth when served on the side or sprinkled on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a delicious Strawberry Crumb Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Always use the correct measurements for flour and sugar to ensure the right texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting your cake cool is crucial. Cutting into it too soon can result in a crumbly mess instead of clean slices.
• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs and dairy mix better. This helps create a smoother batter and a more even bake.
• Ignoring baking times: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Check for doneness with a toothpick rather than relying solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover and warm each slice for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Crumb Cake.

Can I use other fruits in Strawberry Crumb Cake?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for different flavors.

How do I make Strawberry Crumb Cake gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum.

What can I substitute for sour cream in Strawberry Crumb Cake?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as alternatives to sour cream without affecting the flavor.

How do I make Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Cake?

Follow the same recipe but layer whipped cream between slices of cake and fresh strawberries for an added touch.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Crumb Cake is not only soft and moist but also bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. It’s perfect for brunch or dessert! Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different fruits based on the season. Give this delightful recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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Strawberry Crumb Cake

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Strawberry Crumb Cake, a soft and tender treat perfect for any occasion. This cake showcases fresh strawberries nestled within a moist batter and topped with a buttery brown sugar crumb that will leave you craving more. Ideal for brunches, picnics, or as a sweet dessert, its vibrant colors and seasonal freshness make it a standout on your table. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, bakers of all skill levels can whip up this delicious dessert that is sure to impress family and friends.

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Ingredients

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• ¾ cup plus 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp salted butter (or unsalted with salt added)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (for batter)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup milk
• 3 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugars, and salt for the crumb topping; add melted butter until combined. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl; fold into the wet mixture along with milk until smooth.
5. Toss strawberries with flour and sugar; layer on top of the batter in the pan.
6. Sprinkle crumb topping over the strawberries.
7. Bake for 40–50 minutes or until lightly golden and firm to touch.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg