Let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps.

1. Make Strawberry Puree:

• Hull and roughly chop/quarter about 1 pound of the strawberries.
• In a small saucepan, bring strawberries to a boil over medium heat.
• Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered 20-25 minutes or until reduced to 3/4 cup, stirring occasionally. This concentrates the strawberry flavor.
• Transfer to a shallow container. Refrigerate until chilled.

2. Prepare Cake Pans and Preheat Oven:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line 2 (8-inch) round cake pans with parchment paper.
• Coat with cooking spray.

3. Whisk Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In another large bowl, using a hand mixer (or stand mixer), beat granulated sugar and butter until combined.

5. Add Oil and Eggs:

• Add oil and beat until smooth and creamy.
• Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then beat in vanilla.

6. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Liquids:

• Add about one-third of dry ingredients and beat on medium-low speed until just a few dry streaks remain.
• Add milk and beat until incorporated.
• Add another one-third of dry ingredients, beating until just a few dry streaks remain.  
• Add sour cream and beat until incorporated.
• Add remaining dry ingredients and beat until just combined.
• Stir in ½ cup of the reduced, chilled strawberry puree.

7. Bake the Cakes:

• Divide batter between prepared pans.
• Bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, 30-33 minutes.

8. Cool the Cakes:

• Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks; remove paper. Cool completely.

9. Make the Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
• Beat in confectioners’ sugar, 1/4 cup of the reduced strawberry mixture, and, if desired, extract and red food coloring; beat until smooth.

10. Assemble the Cake:

• Place bottom cake layer on a serving plate; top with jam and 1 cup frosting.
• Top with the remaining cake layer.
• Spread remaining frosting over top and side of cake.
• Garnish with remaining strawberries if desired.

These instructions are clear and detailed.