Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Incorporate Wet & Dry: Add half of the flour mixture, then milk and strawberry puree, then the remaining flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Add pink food coloring if desired.
Bake: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
Prepare Icing: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of icing, then top with the second cake. Frost the top and sides with remaining icing.
Serving and Storage Tips
