Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch or 7×5 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal, leaving a little overhang on the sides.
- Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Ensure there are no large clumps of flour remaining to keep the cake texture light.
- Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a separate small bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Using room temperature ingredients helps the batter emulsify properly for a smoother crumb.
- Step 4: Create the Batter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or whisk to gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough. Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries.
- Step 5: Bake the Cake. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream. While the cake cools, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl using a hand mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one half-cup at a time, beating on low speed. Increase the speed and add the heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Whip for 2–3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Step 7: Frost and Serve. Once the cake is entirely cool, spread the vanilla buttercream evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula to create decorative swirls. Slice into six squares and garnish with additional strawberry slices if desired.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes