Fresh Strawberry Cake

Name: Fresh Strawberry Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Swap half with whole-wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bite.); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Lifts the cake to a fluffy finish.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Enhances the strawberry brightness.); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (Try coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (Use dairy-free spread for a vegan version.); 3 large eggs, room temperature (Substitute applesauce (3/4 cup) plus baking powder for egg-free option.); 1 cup whole milk (Almond or oat milk works for dairy-free.); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (A whisper of warmth.); 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (Ripe, fragrant berries make all the difference.); Optionally zest of 1 lemon (Brightens the berry flavor.)