Directions

1. Hull and stem 1 1/2 pounds of the strawberries, then pulse berries in a food processor or blender until pureed. (Save the remaining strawberries for serving.) Pour puree into a medium saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until reduced to 3/4 cup, 20-40 minutes. (The texture of the mixture will look like tomato paste.) Set aside to cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour 3 (8-inch) round cake pans. In a stand mixer using the paddle attachment, beat ¾ cup butter and the granulated sugar at medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add mayonnaise and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) vanilla.
3. In another bowl, stir together 3 ½ cups flour, the baking powder, and baking soda. Alternately add the flour mixture and 3/4 cup milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Beat in the cooled strawberry puree. Add a few drops of red food coloring if you like.