Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 2

In a large bowl, stir together the strawberries and ⅓ cup of sugar. Set aside to macerate.

Step 3

Add the butter to a 13x9-inch baking dish and place in the preheated oven until the butter is melted, about 10 minutes.

Step 4

Meanwhile, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and remaining ⅔ cup of sugar. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and stir just until combined.

Step 5

Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the batter over the melted butter. Spoon the strawberries over the batter, leaving any extra liquid in the bottom of the bowl and discarding it.

Step 6

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until the batter is golden brown and the strawberry juices are bubbling. Let cool for 15 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.