Dolly Parton's Delectable Strawberry Cake Recipe

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Hey there, cake lovers! Ever wanted to bake something as sweet and delightful as Dolly Parton herself? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of Dolly Parton's famous strawberry cake. This isn't just any cake, guys; it's a flavor explosion that'll have you singing and dancing in your kitchen. This recipe has been making waves for years, and for good reason. It's the perfect blend of moist cake, fresh strawberries, and a touch of Dolly's southern charm. So, grab your aprons, preheat your ovens, and get ready for a baking adventure! We're going to break down this legendary recipe step-by-step, ensuring your cake turns out absolutely divine. We'll cover everything from the ingredients you'll need to the secret tips and tricks that make this cake so special. Ready to bake your way to a little piece of heaven? Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let's gather our supplies. This part is super important, because as everyone knows, you can't make a cake without the right ingredients! Don't worry, most of these items you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you'll need to whip up this show-stopping strawberry cake:

  • For the Cake:

    • All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups) – this is the backbone of our cake, so make sure it's fresh!
    • Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons) – the secret to a light and fluffy texture.
    • Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon) – helps with that perfect rise.
    • Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – balances out all the sweetness.
    • Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) – make sure it’s nice and soft for easy mixing.
    • Granulated sugar (2 cups) – the heart of our sweetness.
    • Eggs (4 large) – bring the cake together and add richness.
    • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – a touch of vanilla is a must for extra flavor.
    • Buttermilk (1 cup) – keeps the cake super moist.
    • Fresh strawberries (1 pound), hulled and sliced – the star of the show!

  • For the Frosting:

    • Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) – again, make sure it’s softened!
    • Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened) – for that tangy, creamy goodness.
    • Powdered sugar (4 cups) – for a perfectly smooth frosting.
    • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – more vanilla, because why not?
    • Fresh strawberries (1/2 cup), finely chopped – for that extra strawberry punch.

See? Nothing too crazy! Having all these ingredients ready to go will make the baking process a breeze. Now that we've got everything lined up, let's move on to the fun part: actually making the cake!

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Dolly's Strawberry Cake

Alright, friends, it's time to put on your chef hats and get baking! We'll break down this process into easy-to-follow steps, so even if you're a beginner, you'll be able to create this masterpiece. Follow along closely, and you'll be enjoying a slice of heaven in no time. Let's get this cake party started!

  1. Get the Oven Ready: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking – nobody wants a cake that's stuck in the pan!

  2. Dry Ingredients Unite: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, which is key for a nice, even rise.

  3. Creamy Dreamy Butter: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is super important for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a light and airy cake. You can do this with a stand mixer or a hand mixer; just be patient and let it do its thing!

  4. Egg-cellent Addition: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps emulsify the batter.

  5. Buttermilk Power: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

  6. Strawberry Time: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries. Be careful not to break them up too much – we want those beautiful strawberry pieces throughout the cake. — Savannah Bananas Salaries: What Do Players Earn?

  7. Bake It Up: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The timing might vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it!

  8. Cool Down: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here! You want those cakes totally cool before frosting, or you'll end up with a melted mess. — Alex Pereira's Faith: Beliefs And Background

Frosting the Cake: The Sweet Finale

Alright, now for the grand finale: the frosting! This is where we transform our beautiful cakes into a true work of art. The frosting in this recipe is incredibly delicious, and trust me, you'll want to lick the bowl clean. Here's how to create the perfect frosting:

  1. Creamy Base: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best results. — Savannah Bananas Player Salaries: What You Need To Know

  2. Sugar Rush: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Be careful not to add it all at once, or you'll end up with a sugar explosion! Take your time and beat until it's nice and fluffy.

  3. Vanilla Twist: Stir in the vanilla extract. It adds that perfect finishing touch.

  4. Strawberry Swirl: Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries. This gives the frosting that extra pop of fresh strawberry flavor.

  5. Frosting Time: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and frost with a generous layer of the strawberry cream cheese frosting. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Get creative with the frosting – swirl it, pipe it, or just spread it on; it's all about making it your own!

  6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired. Then, slice, serve, and watch your friends and family ooh and aah! Enjoy every single bite of your homemade Dolly Parton strawberry cake!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cake

Alright, my fellow bakers, let's talk about some insider tips to ensure your Dolly Parton strawberry cake is a smashing success. These little tricks can make all the difference between a good cake and a show-stopping masterpiece. Here are some handy hints:

  • Room Temperature is Key: Always make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother batter and a more even bake.
  • Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and then stop! Gentle is the name of the game.
  • Fresh Strawberries are a Must: Using fresh, ripe strawberries is crucial for the best flavor. Avoid using frozen strawberries, as they can make the cake too soggy. If you can’t find fresh ones, well… you probably still can't skip the fresh ones, right?
  • Level Your Cakes: If your cakes aren't perfectly level after baking, you can trim them with a serrated knife to create a flat surface. This makes for a more beautiful and even presentation.
  • Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little bit of milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it's too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
  • Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best eaten within a few days.

Variations and Additions

Okay, cake enthusiasts, let’s get creative! While the original Dolly Parton strawberry cake is absolutely perfect, you can totally customize it to your liking. Here are some fun variations and additions to elevate your cake to the next level:

  • Add a Layer of Strawberry Jam: Before frosting the layers, spread a thin layer of high-quality strawberry jam on top of each cake layer. This adds an extra layer of strawberry flavor and moisture.
  • Incorporate White Chocolate: Fold in some white chocolate chips into the batter or sprinkle them on top of the frosting for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
  • Use Different Frosting: While the cream cheese frosting is classic, you could try a vanilla buttercream or a whipped cream frosting for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a Glaze: For a simpler approach, you can drizzle a strawberry glaze over the cake instead of frosting it. Simply whisk together powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and a touch of lemon juice until you reach a pourable consistency.
  • Make Cupcakes: This recipe can easily be adapted to make cupcakes. Bake for about 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Add a Sprinkle of Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter or the frosting for a bright and zesty flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own! The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process.

Conclusion: Baking a Legacy

There you have it, folks! Everything you need to know to bake a truly remarkable Dolly Parton strawberry cake. From the simple ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, we've covered it all. This cake isn't just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor, joy, and a little bit of southern charm. Remember to enjoy every moment of the baking process and to share this delicious treat with the people you love.

So go ahead, bake this cake, and spread a little sweetness in the world, just like Dolly herself. Happy baking, and may your kitchens always be filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked strawberry cake!

I hope you enjoy this recipe. Happy baking!