Introduction
Indulging in a slice of homemade cake is one of life’s simple pleasures, and this Vanilla Strawberry Loaf Heart Cake is bound to make your heart flutter! Bursting with the sweet freshness of strawberries, and complemented by a rich vanilla flavor, this lovely loaf is perfect for celebrations, romantic evenings, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Let’s whisk together some delightful ingredients and create a treat that tastes as good as it looks!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing strawberries)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing and lightly flouring it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this aside for now.
- In a larger mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and airy, creating a cloud-like texture.
- Add the eggs into this mixture one at a time, ensuring you mix well after each addition, and then stir in the fragrant vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until everything combines—be careful not to overmix!
- Toss the diced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to lightly coat them. This will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake. Gently fold the strawberries into the batter.
- Pour the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even bake.
- Slide your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If you like, dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for that extra touch of sweetness!
Notes or Tips
For the freshest flavor, use ripe strawberries. If they’re not in season, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using. This cake also keeps well for a few days covered at room temperature, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a wonderful way to practice baking techniques like creaming butter and sugar for a light texture and folding delicate fruits into a batter. Managing the balance between wet and dry ingredients is key in creating that perfect loaf—a skill you’ll bring into many baking adventures ahead!
FAQ
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
Can I make this a gluten-free cake?
Yes! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend, and adjust according to package instructions.
How should I store the cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for about a week.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Strawberry Loaf Heart Cake is a sweet symphony of flavors that will surely brighten your day! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice solo with a cup of tea, every bite is a delicious reminder of the joys of homemade baking. So gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic begin!