Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Whisk dry ingredients together: In a medium bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar using a handheld or stand mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add egg whites: Beat in the egg whites one at a time until well incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Mix in wet ingredients: Add sour cream and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Combine dry and wet: On low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and milk in three additions, starting and ending with the flour.
Add strawberry puree: Gently fold in the cooled strawberry puree. If you want a more vivid pink color, add a couple of drops of pink gel food coloring.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans.
Smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 24–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries in a blender or food processor until they become a fine powder.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Add the strawberry powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fully combined and fluffy.
Adjust the consistency with 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream if the frosting is too thick.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Level the cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.
Place the first layer on a cake board or stand.
Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
Chill for 30–45 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Yield
Prep Time: 1 hour (includes puree reduction and batter preparation)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
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