Dessert

The BEST French Strawberry Cake Recipe

Name: The BEST French Strawberry Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491976H24M37S
Total time: PT-491976H24M37S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 stick unsalted butter, softened (about 1/2 cup); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sour cream; 16 ounces strawberries, sliced (about 2 cups); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

ByHugo Harnd February 14, 2026February 14, 2026

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Introduction

This French Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that combines a tender, buttery crumb with fresh, juicy strawberries. Its light texture and sweet fruity flavor make it perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a special dessert any time of year.

A round, sliced cake on a white plate features a golden-brown crust with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. There are visible layers of soft cake with embedded slices of red strawberries throughout. One slice is removed, showing the light, fluffy inside with juicy strawberry pieces. The top of the cake is decorated with a halved strawberry and small white flowers. The plate is set against a white marbled surface with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 stick unsalted butter, softened (about 1/2 cup)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
16 ounces strawberries, sliced (about 2 cups)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a 9-inch springform pan or cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer, whip together the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale yellow.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour mixture and sour cream alternately to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix well after each addition.
Step 6: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries to the batter.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Step 10: Optionally dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar, slice, and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
To add a hint of almond, replace half the vanilla with almond extract.
For a lighter cake, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Storage

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, or serve chilled.

How to Serve

A single slice of strawberry cake sits on a white plate with gentle scalloped edges and small bead details along the rim. The cake has two main layers: a light golden-yellow base speckled with soft pink and red strawberry pieces inside, topped with a crumbly golden crust sprinkled with powdered sugar. There is a fresh, halved strawberry with a green leafy top placed in front of the cake slice, adding a vibrant red and green contrast. In the background, a round white plate holds the rest of the cake showing the same layers and textures, along with another halved strawberry and a silver fork. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries work best because they hold their shape and offer a bright flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture that can affect the cake texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s structure.