
Zahra Tayeb’s Strawberry Cake
This homemade vanilla sponge topped with strawberry frosting is full of sweet, fresh strawberry flavour.
Preparation time: 20 minutes | cooking time: 40 minutes | serves 6
Vanilla Sponge
- 175g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 150g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 175g gluten-free self-raising flour, sifted
- 1tsp gluten-free baking powder
- 1tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt

Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Butter and flour a 6in round cake tin and cut a piece of non-stick parchment paper to fit the base of the tin.
- Cream the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl and whisk together, or if using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat on speed 2 for a minute or until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gradually add in one egg at a time, making sure each egg is properly combined after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract
- Add in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour or spoon batter mixture evenly into the tin, smooth the top and bake in the oven for about 35-40 minutes. To test whether the cake is cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it is ready.
- Allow the cake to sit in the tin for 5-10 minutes, then gently turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool.
Strawberry Frosting
- 200g butter (softened to room temperature
- 400g powdered sugar
- 1tsp vanilla extract
- 70g (1/2 cup) of puréed strawberries
- Pinch of salt
Method
- Heat the pureed strawberries over low-medium heat until you’re left with a ¼ cup or a little over. *Do not add anything to the puree or reduced puree – it is just pure strawberries.
- Set aside and allow the puree to cool completely to room temperature.
- Mix the butter and powdered sugar until combined and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Add the reduced strawberry puree until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Once the cakes have fully cooled to room temperature, cover the top of the cake with the strawberry frosting to your desired design. I use a palette knife to create a smooth effect.
- Serve and enjoy!