Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans, or spray them with baking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk in two additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in the Chopped Strawberries

Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chopped strawberries.

Step 7: Divide the Batter and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add the pureed strawberries and mix until well combined.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a cake plate or stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top of the cake layer, then top with another cake layer. Repeat with the remaining cake layer and frosting. Use the remaining frosting to frost the sides and top of the cake. Decorate with additional fresh strawberries, if desired.