Classic Finnish Strawberry Cake (Mansikkakakku) Recipe

Ingredients

• For the sponge:
• 4 large eggs
• 120g caster sugar
• 120g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• For the strawberry sugar syrup (optional):
• 50g fresh strawberries, sliced
• 50g granulated sugar
• 50g water
• For the filling and topping:
• 300ml double cream
• 2 tbsp icing sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 300g fresh strawberries, hulled
• Extra strawberries, halved or sliced, for the top

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar with an electric mixer for 5–7 minutes until pale, thick, and fluffy.
3. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold to combine, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 25 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.
5. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
6. (Optional) Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and water. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes. Strain and allow to cool.
7. Whip the double cream with the icing sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
8. Slice the sponge into 3 even layers. If using the syrup, brush each cut side of the sponge with a little of the cooled syrup before assembling.
9. Spread whipped cream over the first layer and scatter with chopped strawberries. Repeat with the second layer.
10. Place the final sponge layer on top. Pipe or spoon a round border of whipped cream on top and fill the centre with cut strawberries.
11. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavours meld beautifully.