If you are looking for a delightful dessert that perfectly balances fruity freshness with warm sweetness, this Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe is the one to try. Imagine moist, tender cake layers infused with pure vanilla and speckled with juicy, fresh strawberries that burst with flavor in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of homemade charm and elegance to any occasion, making it a favorite to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s giving the cake its soft crumb, its sweet aroma, or that gorgeous strawberry studded appearance. These staples come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for a light yet sturdy cake.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the strawberries.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, making it fluffy and airy.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture for a tender texture.
- 3 large eggs: Binds ingredients and adds natural leavening power.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and adds moisture for softness.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with warm, fragrant vanilla notes.
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (chopped): Brings natural sweetness and bursts of juicy flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the oven ready to go so your cake bakes evenly. Meanwhile, generously grease two round cake pans — this ensures your cake layers will release effortlessly once baked and cooled.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar, Add Eggs and Vanilla
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes a few minutes of vigorous beating. This step is key for an airy cake texture. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth. Stir in the pure vanilla extract last to distribute that lovely vanilla essence through the batter.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix with Wet
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for an even rise and perfectly balanced flavor. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture in portions, alternating with the whole milk. This method helps prevent lumps and keeps the batter silky smooth while incorporating air gently.
Step 4: Fold in Fresh Strawberries
Now for the pièce de résistance — fold in the chopped fresh strawberries delicately. You want to distribute them evenly without bruising or breaking them down too much, so the bright fruity pockets stay intact for delightful bursts in each slice.
Step 5: Bake the Cake to Perfection
Pour the luscious batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the top so they rise uniformly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, but keep an eye on them after the 25-minute mark. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before you remove them from the pans to avoid any breakage.
How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple yet elegant with a dusting of powdered sugar over the top and a few fresh strawberries artfully arranged. You could also add a light vanilla glaze or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence, making each slice feel like a special treat.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, making it perfect for warm-weather entertaining. Alternatively, fresh fruit salads or a tangy lemon curd complement the sweetness while adding brightness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning centerpiece, turn this cake into a layered masterpiece with layers of whipped cream or strawberry jam between the cake tiers. Serve it on a beautiful cake stand and garnish with edible flowers or mint leaves to impress your guests with style and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen tends to be warm, refrigeration is best to keep the fresh strawberries from spoiling, although it might firm up the cake a little.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake with a freshly baked feel, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the cake and enhances the vanilla aroma without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries work best to maintain texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter.
What type of vanilla extract is best for this recipe?
Pure vanilla extract offers the most authentic and rich vanilla flavor, which really elevates this Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe. Avoid imitation vanilla for the best taste experience.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
How do I keep the strawberries from sinking to the bottom?
Lightly tossing the chopped strawberries in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter helps suspend them evenly throughout the cake.
Is it possible to make this cake in one pan?
You can bake the batter in a larger single pan, but the baking time will increase. Start checking for doneness around 35 minutes and use the toothpick test as your guide.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to share. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a cake that feels like a loving homemade celebration. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for any special moment or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your day.
Print
Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Strawberry Vanilla Cake featuring a moist vanilla-flavored batter studded with fresh strawberries, baked to perfection for a sweet and fruity dessert ideal for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the pure vanilla extract to add flavor depth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients alternating with whole milk, mixing until just combined to maintain a light batter.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries into the batter to evenly distribute the fruit without breaking it down.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans before removing them to prevent crumbling, then slice and serve as desired.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Fresh strawberries add moisture and sweetness—avoid over-mixing them to retain their shape.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangier flavor and fluffier crumb.
- For best results, set the oven racks in the center to bake cakes evenly.
- Let cakes cool completely before frosting or serving to prevent melting or sliding.
