Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe

The Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe is an absolute celebration of fresh, sweet strawberries combined with the comforting warmth of vanilla in a light, fluffy cake. This delightful dessert captures the essence of summer with each bite, balancing moist layers of vanilla-infused cake with luscious whipped cream and vibrant strawberry pieces. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake brings joy, color, and irresistible flavor that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this cake is a breeze since it calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a moist, flavorful experience. Each item plays a key role—from the flour that builds structure to the fresh strawberries that add natural sweetness and bursts of color.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s tender crumb and structure.
• Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a light texture.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture while ensuring even mixing.
• Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a creamy consistency.
• Pure vanilla extract: Infuses that iconic, warm vanilla aroma and flavor.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and richness, binding the ingredients together.
• Fresh strawberries, chopped: Freshness and juicy bursts that brighten every bite.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to perfection for a light, fluffy frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
• Vanilla extract for whipped cream: Adds a complementary vanilla note to the frosting.
• Fresh strawberries for garnish: Decorative and flavorful finishing touch.

How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your layers come out cleanly and with perfect edges. This little prep step sets the tone for an effortless baking experience.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and sweetness, which is essential for a consistent and fluffy cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients with Dry

Add softened butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Beat the batter first on low speed to incorporate everything gently, then increase to medium and beat until smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes. This step is critical for that perfect smooth batter texture without overmixing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

One at a time, add the eggs to the batter, blending well after each addition. This gradual process helps maintain the airy texture while ensuring everything combines evenly.

Step 5: Fold in Fresh Strawberries

Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries into the batter. Be careful to distribute them evenly without breaking them down too much, so you get little pockets of juicy strawberry goodness throughout your cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain texture.

Step 7: Whip the Cream for Frosting

While your cakes cool, beat the heavy cream, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream frosting is light, not overly sweet, and perfectly complements the fresh strawberry and vanilla flavors in the cake.

Step 8: Assemble Your Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of whipped cream on top. Carefully add the second cake layer, then cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. The whipped frosting acts as a canvas ready for your final decoration.

Step 9: Decorate and Chill

Top your cake with fresh whole strawberries to give it an inviting, vibrant look. Then, chill your cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set nicely before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of fresh strawberries arranged neatly on top works wonders, but feel free to add mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation. These simple touches add freshness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a light cup of tea or fresh fruit salad. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of berry coulis on the side also complements the strawberry vanilla layers perfectly without overpowering the cake’s delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your cake into generous wedges and serve them on pretty plates with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a strawberry on the side. For parties, consider mini versions baked in cupcake tins for individual servings, making it easy and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the whipped cream from drying out. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

While this cake is best fresh, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Thaw completely before assembling and frosting to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

The cake is best served chilled, but if you prefer a slightly room-temperature experience, remove it from the fridge about 20 minutes before slicing. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the delicate whipped cream texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe to maintain the texture and bright flavor, but if using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid watery batter.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based spread, use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream whipped until fluffy for a dairy-free twist.

How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?

Always chill your bowl and beaters before whipping cream, and stop whisking as soon as stiff peaks form. Adding a little powdered sugar helps stabilize the whipped cream for longer-lasting fluffiness.

Can I add other fruits to this cake?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or peach slices can be folded into the batter or added between layers to customize the cake with your favorite seasonal fruits.

What if I only have one cake pan?

No problem! Bake one layer first, then wash and prepare the pan again for the second layer. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly and watch your cake closely to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a heartfelt invitation to enjoy simple, fresh flavors blended into a timeless treat. I encourage you to try it yourself, share it with loved ones, and experience the joy of homemade magic in every luscious bite.

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