Strawberry Cake

1Preparing the Cake Batter Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan.

2In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar (1 cup) until light and fluffy.

3Add the eggs (2), one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (1 teaspoon).

4In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder (1 teaspoon), and salt (½ teaspoon). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk (½ cup). Mix until smooth.

5Assembling the Cake Pour half of the batter into the greased cake pan. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the strawberries.

6Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7Making the Strawberry Glaze In a small saucepan, whisk together the strawberry puree (¼ cup), lemon juice (1 tablespoon), and cornstarch (1 teaspoon) over low heat until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

8Add the powdered sugar (1 cup) to the strawberry mixture and stir until well combined.

9Finishing Touches Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the strawberry glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries.