This Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe blends the rich, buttery flavor of vanilla with the sweet, tangy freshness of strawberries, creating a moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion.
The recipe begins with a classic vanilla cake base, incorporating finely chopped strawberries for added texture and fruitiness.
The Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe is baked until golden and tender, then layered and frosted with a luscious vanilla-strawberry buttercream.
Ideal for celebrations or a delightful dessert, this Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe combines simplicity and elegance, making it a favorite for both experienced bakers and novices alike.
With its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your baking repertoire.
How To Prepare Strawberry And Vanilla Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Yield: 8 servings
Kitchen Utensils:
- Mixing Bowls,
- Hand Mixer/Stand Mixer,
- Measuring Cups And Spoons,
- Spatula,
- Cake Pans (Round Or Square),
- Saucepan,
- Cooling Rack,
- Piping Bags (Optional).
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk (at room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker filling)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Edible flowers (optional)
How To Make Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
1. Prepare the Vanilla Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and cream of tartar until fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, milk, and oil, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and beat until smooth.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool on a rack.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher. If you’d like a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the strawberry mixture. Continue cooking until thickened. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
1. Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat on high until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Assemble the Cake:
1. Once the cakes have cooled, place the first layer on a cake plate or stand. Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling on top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the entire cake with the vanilla buttercream frosting. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and optional edible flowers.
Special Note
Ensure the Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
If you’re preparing this cake in advance, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Tips For The Perfect Strawberry And Vanilla Cake
✔ Fresh Strawberries: Using fresh, ripe strawberries will make a huge difference in the flavor of your cake. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using.
✔ Chill the Cake: If you’re working in a warm kitchen, it may help to chill the cake layers for about 30 minutes before frosting to make them easier to handle.
✔ Make Ahead: The strawberry filling and frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day you plan to assemble and serve the cake.
✔ Flavor Variations: For a different twist, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the buttercream frosting for an almond-vanilla flavor or add some lemon zest to the cake batter for a fresh citrusy touch.
Best Suggestions For Strawberry And Vanilla Cake Recipe
1. Fresh Berry Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor of your cake by adding a garnish of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Arrange them artfully on top of the cake or around the edges of each slice for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Whipped Cream Topping: Serve each slice of cake with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream. The light and airy texture of the whipped cream complements the moist cake and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
3. Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your dessert by drizzling melted chocolate over the top of the cake or each individual slice. Use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preference, for a luxurious touch that pairs beautifully with the vanilla and strawberry flavors.
4. Ice Cream Pairing: Pair each slice of cake with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla, strawberry, or even a rich chocolate ice cream would make an excellent complement, adding a cool and creamy contrast to the cake.
5. Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant touch, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful, snow-like finish to your dessert.
How to Decorate This Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
1. Fresh Strawberry Arrangement:
Decorate the top of your cake with an arrangement of fresh strawberries. Slice the strawberries in half and place them in a circular pattern around the edges of the cake.
For an extra touch, add whole strawberries in the center or create a strawberry flower by fanning out slices.
2. Piped Buttercream Roses:
Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe buttercream roses on the top and sides of the cake. Start from the center of each rose and spiral outwards.
You can use pink or red food coloring to tint the buttercream for a beautiful, floral effect that matches the strawberry theme.
3. Chocolate Shavings and Drizzle:
Add an elegant touch with chocolate shavings and a chocolate drizzle. Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from a bar of dark or milk chocolate.
Sprinkle the shavings on top of the cake, and drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent look.
4. Edible Flowers and Mint Leaves:
For a fresh and natural decoration, adorn your cake with edible flowers like pansies, violets, or marigolds, along with fresh mint leaves.
Arrange them delicately on top of the cake and around the edges for a stunning, garden-inspired presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Make sure to thaw and drain them before using. The flavor might be slightly different, but they will still work well for the filling.
How can I make the cake more moist?
To make the cake more moist, consider adding an extra egg or substituting some of the butter with sour cream or yogurt. You can also brush the cake layers with simple syrup before adding the filling and frosting.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make this cake in advance. You can bake the cake layers and prepare the strawberry filling a day ahead. Store the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature and keep the filling in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of vanilla buttercream frosting?
If you prefer a different frosting, cream cheese frosting, whipped cream frosting, or even a strawberry buttercream can be great alternatives. Each will complement the flavors of the cake and filling beautifully.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to store it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
The Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor and a testament to the joys of baking.
Combining the timeless elegance of vanilla with the vibrant, fruity essence of strawberries, this cake offers a delightful balance that will enchant anyone who tastes it.
Each slice reveals a harmonious blend of moist cake and creamy frosting, bringing a touch of sweetness to every moment. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor the delicious results. Happy baking!
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Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand Mixer/Stand Mixer,
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cake Pans (Round Or Square),
- Saucepan
- Cooling rack
- Piping Bags (Optional).
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for a thicker filling
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Edible flowers optional
Instructions
Prepare the Vanilla Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and cream of tartar until fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, milk, and oil, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and beat until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool on a rack.
Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat until the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher. If you’d like a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the strawberry mixture. Continue cooking until thickened. Set aside to cool.
Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat on high until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, place the first layer on a cake plate or stand. Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the entire cake with the vanilla buttercream frosting. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and optional edible flowers.