Strawberry Smash Cake Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

There’s something utterly delightful about a strawberry smash cake—a small, messy, and utterly adorable cake perfect for celebrating birthdays, milestones, or any special moment with your little one. This simple, fluffy cake topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream invites joyful smashing, giggles, and lots of photo-worthy memories.

Whether you’re a parent prepping for your child’s first birthday or a baker looking for a fun and delicious dessert, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a moist, flavorful cake that melts in your mouth.

Using fresh, ripe strawberries combined with a light vanilla sponge and creamy frosting, this strawberry smash cake is as tasty as it is charming. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your toddler to new textures and tastes while keeping things wholesome and homemade.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family and friends who want to join in the fun (and the eating!). Read on to discover why this recipe stands out and how you can effortlessly create your own strawberry smash cake at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry smash cake recipe is designed to be easy, quick, and packed with fresh flavor, making it the perfect choice for busy parents or bakers of any skill level. The cake is tender and moist, thanks to the simple vanilla batter, and the fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color.

The frosting is light, creamy, and made with wholesome ingredients, ensuring that every bite is delightful without being overly sweet. Plus, the recipe is versatile—you can adjust the level of sweetness or swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

Not only is this cake a treat for taste buds, but it also makes for an incredible sensory experience for little ones. The soft cake and juicy strawberries encourage exploration and enjoyment, making it a memorable centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Spatula
• Knife (for slicing strawberries)
• Cake stand or plate for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the frosting: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until it begins to thicken. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
9. Assemble the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread a layer of whipped cream on top. Arrange sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the cream. Spread another thin layer of whipped cream over the strawberries.
10. Decorate and serve: Add a few whole strawberries on top for decoration. Place the cake on a cake stand or plate, and it’s ready for your little one to smash and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a toddler-friendly smash cake, avoid using nuts or refined sugars excessively. This recipe balances sweetness for little palates.

If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, try substituting the milk with almond or oat milk and use a coconut-based whipped cream alternative. For a fun twist, add a few blueberries or raspberries for mixed berry flavor.

To make the cake extra moist, you can brush the layers with a little simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water boiled and cooled) before frosting. This keeps the cake from drying out, especially if you plan to prepare it in advance.

Use a heart-shaped or number-shaped pan to customize the cake for special occasions. Also, for older kids and adults, adding a layer of strawberry jam or cream cheese frosting can elevate the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry smash cake is best served fresh and slightly chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade for adults.

For a fun family gathering, set up a little smash cake station where kids can dive in and enjoy the mess!

Leftover cake (if there is any!) can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but the whipped cream topping may soften the cake over time. For another delicious treat, use the leftover strawberries to top pancakes or mix into yogurt for breakfast the next day.

For more fresh and easy vegan salad ideas, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas. If you’re interested in hearty, comforting meals, don’t miss the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

And for a flavorful rice dish to complement your dessert, try our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

The strawberry smash cake is an irresistible combination of simple ingredients, fresh flavors, and joyful fun. It’s more than just a cake—it’s a celebration of moments filled with laughter, messy hands, and the sweet innocence of discovery.

Whether it’s your child’s first birthday or just a sunny afternoon treat, this cake makes every occasion special.

With easy-to-follow steps and versatile options for customization, this recipe invites you to create a beautiful, tasty, and memorable dessert that everyone will love. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a strawberry smash cake that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

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