Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extract.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the strawberry puree until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.

Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.

Frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing with an offset spatula.

Garnish with fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish.