Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

Super moist, buttery and fluffy strawberry bundt cake with swirl is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself, this cake will impress with its vibrant colors and rich flavor. The unique strawberry swirl adds an element of surprise, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Flavor Packed – The combination of fresh strawberries and vanilla in this bundt cake creates a burst of flavor with every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it as is, or dress it up with frosting for special occasions.
• Perfect for Celebrations – Its stunning presentation makes it ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any festive gathering.
• Moist Texture – Thanks to the buttermilk and butter, each slice remains moist and tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your strawberry bundt cake with swirl, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-inch bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt Pan – The unique shape creates a beautiful presentation while ensuring even baking.
• Mixing Bowls – Having multiple bowls allows you to mix wet and dry ingredients separately for better results.
• Sifter – Sifting flour removes lumps and incorporates air, leading to a fluffier cake.

Ingredients

Super moist, buttery and fluffy strawberry bundt cake with a thick, flavor packed and pretty strawberry swirl hidden inside!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Cup All purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda (heaping)
• 2 1/4 tsp Baking powder
• 1/8 tsp Salt
• 1/2 Cup + 1 Tbsp Granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 Cup Buttermilk
• (6 Tbsps) 2 Eggs (medium)
• 3 Tbsp Butter melted
• 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract

Strawberry Swirl Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Tbsp Strawberry Jam/preserves
• 2 Drops Pink food coloring (optional)

For Frosting

• 1/2 Cup Vanilla buttercream frosting

How to Make Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease your 6-inch bundt pan with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the following ingredients in a bowl:
* All purpose flour
* Baking soda
* Baking powder
* Salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Buttermilk
2. Eggs
3. Granulated sugar until well combined.
Remember to ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Add melted butter and vanilla extract to this mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry with Wet Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold gently until no flour remains visible.

Step 5: Prepare Strawberry Batter

Take about 3 tablespoons of batter out into a separate bowl. Add strawberry jam and mix well. If desired, incorporate two drops of pink food coloring for enhanced color.

Step 6: Layer the Batter in Bundt Pan

Layer your batter as follows:
1. Pour in 1/3 of the vanilla batter.
2. Add the strawberry batter on top.
3. Repeat with another layer of vanilla batter.
4. Pour in all remaining strawberry batter.
5. Finally, top off with the remaining vanilla batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. Check doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.

Once baked, cool in the bundt pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

How to Serve Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

Serving Strawberry bundt cake with swirl is a delightful experience. This moist and fluffy dessert is perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Here are some creative serving ideas to enhance your cake enjoyment.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of the strawberry bundt cake is satisfying on its own. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with fresh strawberries or mixed berries. This adds a burst of flavor and makes for an appealing presentation.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream. The lightness of the cream complements the rich strawberry flavors beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake creates a delicious contrast in temperature and texture, making it even more enjoyable.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance your dessert by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the top. This decadent addition elevates the flavor profile.

Festive Garnish

• Decorate slices with mint leaves or edible flowers for a stunning visual touch that impresses guests at any gathering.

How to Perfect Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

To ensure your Strawberry bundt cake with swirl turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them blend more evenly into the batter.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, baking soda, and baking powder together prevents clumps and ensures even distribution in the batter.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes. The cake should spring back when lightly touched, or a toothpick should come out clean.

• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape.

• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other fruit jams or citrus zest to the batter for unique variations that suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry bundt cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet cake.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent bites enhance the strawberry theme while adding richness.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and complements the softness of the cake.
6. Coffee or Tea: Beverages like espresso or herbal tea work wonderfully alongside dessert, enhancing flavors while offering warmth.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream station where guests can create their own sundaes using scoops of ice cream and toppings to enjoy with their slice of cake.
8. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert can provide a subtle flavor contrast while keeping things elegant on your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when baking a strawberry bundt cake with swirl. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent the batter from mixing properly, leading to an uneven texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough cake. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so use proper measuring cups and spoons. Too much flour or sugar can drastically affect the outcome of your strawberry bundt cake with swirl.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Always check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it helps maintain its shape. Skipping this step can lead to breakage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before covering it.

Freezing Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry bundt cake with swirl

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries in my strawberry bundt cake with swirl?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to your batter.

How can I make my strawberry bundt cake with swirl more flavorful?

Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

How do I know when my strawberry bundt cake is done?

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry bundt cake with swirl is not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and fluffy. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors or toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating delightful variations that will impress friends and family!