Name: Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cake flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup salted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup vegetable oil (avocado oil can be used but it will mute the pink color); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract (clear extract recommended to retain pink color); 1 ounce freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries, ground; 1 1/4 cups buttermilk, room temperature; 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; 1/2 cup butter, room temperature; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 cups powdered sugar; Pink sprinkles

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you are craving a cake that bursts with delightful strawberry flavor and dazzles with its soft, rosy hue, the Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This charming, moist sheet cake combines the tenderness of a classic velvet cake with the natural sweetness of freeze-dried berries, creating a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or any day you want to feel extra special. With a luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of pink sprinkles, every bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a round metal bowl filled with thick, light pink batter with small darker pink spots evenly mixed in. The batter's texture is smooth with visible swirls inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a golden mixing utensil partially visible next to it. There is also a cracked eggshell nearby, with the inside showing a light brown color. The overall look is clean and focused on the bowl and batter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that come together harmoniously. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and those irresistible pink tones.

Cake flour: Provides a tender crumb with a soft, delicate texture that’s essential for velvet cake.
Baking powder & baking soda: Work together to give the cake a gentle rise and fluffiness.
Salt: Enhances and balances the sweet flavors.
Salted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist while allowing the strawberries’ color to shine.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla extract: Adds warm, fragrant notes that complement the strawberries beautifully.
Freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries (ground): Infuse natural color and intense berry flavor without extra moisture.
Buttermilk: Brings tenderness and a slight tang that brightens the cake’s flavor.
Cream cheese & butter (for frosting): Combine for a silky, luscious topping that perfectly balances sweetness and tang.
Powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to spreadable perfection.
Pink sprinkles: Add a festive, playful finish that’s perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing a 9×13-inch baking pan by buttering it generously. For an easy cake release, line the pan with parchment paper, and don’t forget to butter the parchment too. Then, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to evenly distribute these essential leavening agents and seasonings.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is critical for creating a tender and airy crumb, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Oil, Freeze-Dried Berries, Eggs, and Vanilla

Lower the mixer speed and pour in the vegetable oil, followed by the finely ground freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries, which will give the cake its enchanting pink color and berry essence. Beat in the eggs one at a time for a smooth, velvety batter, finishing off with the vanilla extract for added warmth.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently just until you see the dry ingredients disappear—it’s okay if a few white streaks remain. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so resist the urge to blend too long.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your beautifully pink batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in powdered sugar on low speed until you reach your desired consistency. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the luscious frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch of fun and color, sprinkle pink sprinkles all over. This finishing touch makes the cake perfect for Valentine’s Day, gender reveals, or simply to brighten a spring gathering.

How to Serve Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

A single square slice of light brown cake sits on a white round plate, topped with a smooth layer of white cream frosting that covers the whole top. Red, pink, and white small sprinkles in round and heart shapes scatter across the frosting. A small piece of cake with frosting is on a silver fork placed beside the slice. In the background, a metal rectangular baking pan filled with the same cake and white frosting is visible, with one piece missing. On the white marbled surface, a white bowl filled with fresh red raspberries is seen on the left side, and a red strawberry with green leaves is on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The pink sprinkles used in this recipe aren’t just cute decorations—they also add a bit of crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy frosting. For a more sophisticated look, fresh strawberry slices or edible flowers make exquisite garnishes that elevate the cake’s visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with light sides such as a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweetness and keep your palate refreshed. A chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a fruity tea complements the cake’s berry notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into charming mini squares and setting them on a tiered dessert stand for a stunning display at brunch or a party. You can also serve slices with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance and extra berry flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying over several days or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready for a sweet treat that tastes just as delicious as freshly baked.

Reheating

Since this is a frosted cake, reheating is best avoided to preserve the texture of the frosting. Instead, bring the slices to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the most enjoyable experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried for the Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe?

Fresh strawberries contain more moisture which can alter the cake’s texture and color. Freeze-dried berries are preferred because they provide concentrated flavor and vibrant color without adding extra moisture, keeping the cake tender and pink.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 1/4 cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This homemade version will add the same tenderizing effect to your cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend formulated for baking cakes. Be sure that the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the cake’s structure and texture.

How do I get the brightest pink color in the Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe?

Using freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries and clear vanilla extract helps maintain the pink hue. Avoid substituting with colored oils or traditional vanilla extract, as they can dull the delicate color.

Can I turn this sheet cake into a layered round cake?

Absolutely! Divide the batter evenly into two or three round cake pans and adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. This makes for a stunning layered cake presentation with the same delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably joyful about the Pink Velvet Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe that makes it a fantastic choice for any special moment or to brighten an ordinary day. From its tender crumb to its creamy frosting and delightful pink sparkle, this cake feels like a warm hug made for sharing. So, why not gather your ingredients and discover how effortlessly you can create this enchanting dessert? Your taste buds and your guests will thank you.