Hakka-style Strawberry Cake

Ingredients

In this Hakka adaptation of the Finnish Mansikkakakku, we incorporate Hakka culinary elements to create a unique twist. The addition of star anise and cloves infuses the cake with a subtle spiciness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The use of Hakka-style strawberry slices as a garnish adds a visually appealing touch, while also paying homage to the Hakka culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Mansikkakakku, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups (225g) fresh strawberries, diced 1 1/2 cups (225g) fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Hakka-style strawberry slices, for garnish Hakka-style strawberry slices, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 46g, 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, star anise, and cloves.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. 5.
   Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely.
9. 9.
   In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
10. 10.
    Spread the whipped cream over the cooled cake and garnish with Hakka-style strawberry slices.
11. 11.
    Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fresh strawberries — Ensure the strawberries are ripe and juicy for the best flavor. If strawberries are not in season, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of Hakka rice wine to the whipped cream before spreading it on the cake.
• If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can increase the amount of star anise and cloves in the cake batter.
• Serve the cake chilled for a refreshing treat on a warm day.

Serving advice

Slice the Hakka-style Strawberry Cake into generous portions and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot Hakka-style tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a pop of color.