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
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A few drops of pink food coloring (optional)
How To Make Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Frosting
Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy. If desired, mix in a few drops of pink food coloring to give the frosting a lovely hue.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides. Decorate with additional fresh strawberries if desired.
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.
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 about Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
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!
Strawberry and Vanilla Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries chopped
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A few drops of pink food coloring optional
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Cake Batter
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy. If desired, mix in a few drops of pink food coloring to give the frosting a lovely hue.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides. Decorate with additional fresh strawberries if desired.