Strawberry Cake

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon strawberry extract
• Red food coloring (optional)

Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract
• Pink food coloring (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries
• Edible pearls or sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract. Add food coloring if you prefer.
   • Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. 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.
2. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract. Mix in food coloring if desired. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting over it, and repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the sides and top of the cake.
   • Decorate with fresh strawberries and sprinkle with edible pearls or sprinkles.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious triple-layer strawberry cake!