Strawberry Breakfast Cake

The Strawberry Breakfast Cake is a delightful way to start your day. This versatile dish can be enjoyed at breakfast or as a sweet snack, making it perfect for brunches or casual gatherings. The vibrant strawberries add a burst of flavor, while the cake itself is light and fluffy. Plus, it offers both vegan and dairy-free options to cater to any dietary preference.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Strawberry Breakfast Cake can be prepared in just about 10 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy mornings.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive brunch, this cake fits right in.
• Deliciously Fruity Flavor: The fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and juiciness, elevating this cake beyond the ordinary.
• Healthier Alternative: With options like honey or maple syrup, this recipe offers a lighter take on traditional breakfast cakes.
• Customizable Options: Easily switch out ingredients to accommodate your preferences or dietary needs, such as using coconut oil instead of butter.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here are the basics you’ll need for preparing your Strawberry Breakfast Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 10-inch pie pan or a 9/10-inch springform pan
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Helps achieve that light and fluffy texture in your batter effortlessly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure the perfect rise and flavor balance.

Ingredients

A simple, real food strawberry dessert you can eat for breakfast – with vegan and dairy-free versions.

Adapted from Smitten Kitchen. You should make all of her recipes. They are always on point.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour, (any combination of all-purpose, whole wheat, or spelt)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons butter, softened (coconut oil and palm shortening work too)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup, (or 1 cup sugar)
• 1 egg, (or flax/chia egg)
• 1/2 cup milk, (dairy-free milk works great)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberries

• 1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey

For Greasing Pan

• Butter or oil

How to Make Strawberry Breakfast Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 10-inch pie pan, or a 9 or 10-inch springform pan (my preference) with butter or oil.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Beat the softened butter with sugar/honey until fluffy (about 3 minutes).
2. Add in the egg (or flax/chia egg) along with vanilla extract; beat until just combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients mixture into your wet batter:
– Add milk slowly while mixing until just combined—ensure there are no clumps of flour.

Step 5: Prepare Strawberries for Topping

Pour batter into the greased pan:
– Gently press strawberry halves on top of it in a single layer, cut side down (it’s okay if they overlap slightly).

Step 6: Sweeten the Top

Sprinkle or drizzle the remaining sugar/honey evenly over the cake before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake for:
– Initial 10 minutes at 350 F.
– Reduce heat to 325 F; bake for another 50-60 minutes until golden brown. A tester inserted in the center should come out clean but might have some gooey cooked strawberry on it.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow cake to cool before slicing. Serve plain, or with whipped cream as an extra treat!

How to Serve Strawberry Breakfast Cake

Strawberry Breakfast Cake is a delightful way to kick off your day. This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a luscious touch and enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Pair with Greek Yogurt

• Serve slices alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a protein boost.

Add Fresh Berries

• Top the cake with an assortment of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor and color.

Drizzle with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over each slice brings out the cake’s natural sweetness and complements the fruit perfectly.

Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar

• A dusting of powdered sugar not only makes for an elegant presentation but also adds a hint of sweetness.

Serve with Herbal Tea

• Enjoy a slice with a cup of herbal tea for a refreshing, calming experience that pairs beautifully with the flavors.

How to Perfect Strawberry Breakfast Cake

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Breakfast Cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Choose Ripe Strawberries: Use sweet, ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and juiciness in every bite.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as ovens vary; check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely so that it slices nicely and maintains its shape.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add lemon zest or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Breakfast Cake

Strawberry Breakfast Cake pairs well with several delicious side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Granola Parfait
   Layer granola and yogurt in a glass for crunch and creaminess that contrasts with the soft cake.
3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast spread alongside the sweet cake.
4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This creamy pudding is nutritious and can be flavored with vanilla or almond for an exciting side option.
5. Smoothie Bowl
   A colorful smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds adds health benefits while being visually appealing.
6. Avocado Toast
   The rich creaminess of avocado toast provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of Strawberry Breakfast Cake.
7. Coconut Yogurt
   For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt offers tropical flavors that pair wonderfully with strawberries.
8. Herbal Infusion
   A warm cup of herbal infusion complements the dessert’s sweetness while providing a soothing experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Strawberry Breakfast Cake can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can lead to disappointing results. Always ensure your flour and baking powder are fresh for the best rise.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Bold Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can burn the edges while leaving the center undercooked. Use an oven thermometer to check accuracy.
• Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for clean pieces.
• Bold Not Greasing Properly: Failing to grease your pan can result in a stuck cake. Make sure to grease thoroughly or use parchment paper for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Breakfast Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Breakfast Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Breakfast Cake

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Strawberry Breakfast Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make a vegan version of Strawberry Breakfast Cake?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

What sweeteners can I use in my Strawberry Breakfast Cake?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or granulated sugar depending on your preference.

How do I know when my Strawberry Breakfast Cake is done?

The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, although some gooey strawberry may cling to it.

Can I add other fruits to my Strawberry Breakfast Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in blueberries, raspberries, or even bananas for variety.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Breakfast Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal of the day. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!