Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and pureed strawberries. If using, add a few drops of pink food coloring to achieve your desired shade.
- Mix Cake Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the strawberry-buttermilk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined and no flour streaks remain.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Then mix in the pureed strawberries, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency with additional powdered sugar if needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Level the Cakes: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, level the tops with a serrated knife if necessary.
- Layering: Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese icing on top. Add the second layer of cake and repeat the process. Top with the third layer of cake.
- Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of icing around the entire cake to seal in any crumbs. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Frost the Cake: After the crumb coat has set, spread the remaining strawberry cream cheese icing over the top and sides of the cake. Smooth out the icing with a spatula for a clean finish.
Step 4: Decorate
- Optional Decorations: For a whimsical touch, decorate the top of the cake with fresh strawberries, edible glitter, or pink sprinkles. You can also use doll figurines or cake toppers to enhance the Barbie theme.
Tips for Success
- Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained).
- Food Coloring: Adjust the pink food coloring to your liking for a vibrant Barbie pink or keep it natural for a softer hue.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing is not only visually stunning but also bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any celebration and will delight both kids and adults alike. Enjoy creating this fun and delicious cake, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!