Few desserts capture the essence of spring and celebration like a classic strawberry cake. This light, fluffy sponge layered with sweet strawberry jam and topped with a soft strawberry meringue is one of those treats that feels nostalgic and elegant all at once. It’s perfect for birthdays, garden parties, or simply indulging in a moment of sweetness.
A Personal Take on This Cake
Growing up, strawberry cake was always the centerpiece of family gatherings — the kind of cake that draws everyone into the kitchen before dinner is even served. My grandmother used to layer hers with homemade jam and whip the meringue by hand. Today, I’ve adapted her method just slightly, keeping the spirit of her recipe alive while making it simple enough to recreate anytime. The balance of textures — soft sponge, luscious jam, and airy meringue — makes every bite absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake
- Light, airy texture from whipped egg whites and a carefully folded batter.
- Naturally sweet flavor from real strawberries, both in the jam and meringue.
- Beautiful presentation that looks impressive but is simple to make.
- Perfect for special occasions, yet easy enough to enjoy on a weekend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 200 grams of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 8 egg yolks
- 6 egg whites
- 200 grams of sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 50 grams of melted butter
- 1 jar (about 270 grams) of strawberry jam
For the Strawberry Meringue Topping:
- 2 egg whites
- 250 grams of fresh strawberries, pureed
- 250 grams of sugar
How to Make Strawberry Cake Step by Step
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a cake pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Set aside.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the 6 egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and the 8 egg yolks until light and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then slowly mix in the flour mixture. Stir in the melted butter, and finally, gently fold in the whipped egg whites to keep the batter airy and light.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Meringue
In a clean bowl, beat the 2 egg whites with the strawberry purée and half of the sugar until the mixture becomes firm and glossy. Gradually add the remaining sugar while beating, until the meringue holds stiff peaks.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, slice it horizontally into two even layers. Spread a generous layer of strawberry jam between the two halves. Top the cake with the fluffy strawberry meringue, spreading it over the top and sides.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use room-temperature eggs for easier whipping and better volume.
- Be gentle when folding in the egg whites to avoid deflating the batter.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the purée — it makes all the difference in the meringue’s flavor.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving to help set the jam and meringue.
Final Thoughts
This strawberry cake is more than just dessert — it’s a celebration in every slice. The delicate sponge, the fruity jam center, and the silky meringue topping make it a showstopper for any gathering. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a labor of love but is absolutely worth every step. If you’re looking for something elegant yet comforting, this is the cake to bake.
Let it become part of your own family traditions — it certainly has for mine.