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Strawberry Basil Cake

This strawberry basil cake features a moist crumb layered with juicy, basil-infused strawberries, offering a vibrant and fresh flavor profile. The cake is baked until golden and topped with a sprinkle of sugar, resulting in a tender texture with a subtle crunch on top.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly
  • 3 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk for richness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pint strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 4 large fresh basil leaves chopped finely
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for sprinkling on top

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Cake pan
  • Cooling rack
  • Knife
  • Sifter or fine sieve

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan to prepare for baking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and sugar until combined. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract until smooth. Then, gradually add the melted butter and buttermilk, mixing well to create a uniform batter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold everything together until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  5. In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with the finely chopped basil. Lightly sprinkle with a teaspoon of sugar if desired to enhance sweetness.
  6. Pour about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Distribute the basil-infused strawberries over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top, smoothing lightly.
  7. Sprinkle the top of the batter with the remaining sugar for a subtle crunchy topping. Place the cake in the oven and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, about 40 minutes.
  8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to meld.
  9. Slice and serve the cake at room temperature, enjoying the moist crumb, juicy berries, and aromatic basil lift with each bite.

Notes

Ensure strawberries are ripe for the best flavor. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for extra indulgence.