### How to Make a Delicious Cottage Pudding Cake for Strawberry Shortcakes: A Step-by-Step Guide
**Introduction**
Cottage pudding cake is a classic dessert that pairs wonderfully with strawberries to make a strawberry shortcake. This guide will help you create a rich, moist cottage pudding cake that complements the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries perfectly.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
#### Tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Baking dish
- Oven
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients until well combined.
3. **Cream Butter and Eggs:**
- Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and blend it in with your spatula.
- Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients:**
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
5. **Pour Batter into Baking Dish:**
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula for an even cooking result.
6. **Bake the Cake:**
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before proceeding.
7. **Prepare Strawberries:**
- While the cake cools, wash and slice your strawberries into bite-sized pieces.
8. **Assemble Strawberry Shortcakes:**
- Once the cake has cooled enough to handle, carefully remove it from the baking dish.
- Cut the cake into slices and place each slice onto a plate.
- Spoon or arrange sliced strawberries on top of each piece of cake.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. This cottage pudding cake for strawberry shortcakes is perfect served fresh out of the oven, making it ideal for a summer barbecue or casual family gathering.
### Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor.
- For extra moisture, you can add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to your batter.
- Don't overbake; you want a slightly moist cake that is just set in the middle.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delicious cottage pudding cake for strawberry shortcakes. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert with loved ones and let it be a centerpiece of any celebration or casual gathering!