Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. It’s approachable enough for novice bakers yet sophisticated enough to wow seasoned chefs. So, let’s dive into the world of baking and discover how to create this delightful Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that will surely become a cherished recipe in your home.
What is Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?
The Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful dessert that beautifully showcases the harmony between a classic vanilla cake and the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries. This layered cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a celebration dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Its origins can be traced back to traditional American baking, where vanilla has long been a beloved flavor, and strawberries are cherished for their sweetness and versatility.
In many cultures, cakes are a symbol of celebration, and this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is no exception. The combination of moist, fluffy vanilla layers and a fresh fruit filling creates a stunning visual and sensory experience. As you cut into the cake, the layers reveal a beautiful contrast, with the soft, pale cake juxtaposed against the bright red strawberries. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a birthday party, a summer barbecue, or simply a family dinner where you want to impress your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Fresh and fruity flavor combination that’s irresistible
- Easy to make for any skill level, from novice to expert
- Perfect for celebrations and family gatherings, making memories sweeter
Who It’s For
This recipe is ideal for:
- Home bakers looking for approachable recipes that yield impressive results
- Families wanting to create memorable desserts that everyone will love
- Food lovers who appreciate fresh ingredients and delightful flavors
When to Cook It
Consider baking this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling for:
- Birthdays and anniversaries, adding a personal touch to celebrations
- Summer picnics and barbecues, where its freshness shines
- Weeknight family dinners or special treats to brighten any day
To create a delightful Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake, providing structure.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and moisture.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the cake moist and adds flavor.
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the vanilla flavor; for a richer taste, consider using vanilla bean paste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The star of the filling, offering freshness and natural sweetness.
- ½ cup strawberry jam: Adds a layer of sweetness and helps bind the strawberries.
Follow these simple steps to create your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Stir in the vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Assemble the cake: Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry jam on top of one cake layer, followed by the sliced strawberries. Place the second layer on top and frost as desired.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar in this recipe, consider these alternatives:
- Stevia: A natural sweetener that has no calories and is much sweeter than sugar, so use it sparingly.
- Monk fruit sweetener: Another natural option that provides sweetness without calories and has a similar taste to sugar.
- Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that behaves like sugar in baking, making it a great substitute.
Avoid using honey or maple syrup, as they can affect the cake’s texture and moisture content differently than granulated sugar.
To create your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of essential baking tools you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes will help you mix ingredients easily.
- Electric mixer: This will save you time and effort when creaming butter and sugar.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
- Cake pans: Two 9-inch round pans are ideal for this recipe.
- Cooling racks: These allow your cakes to cool evenly and prevent sogginess.
To elevate your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling to professional levels, consider these simple, chef-approved hacks. These tips will help you achieve a perfect cake that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better incorporation of ingredients, resulting in a fluffier cake.
- Properly level cake layers: After baking, use a serrated knife to trim the tops of your cake layers if they have domed. This ensures that your layers are even, making it easier to stack and frost them without any wobbling.
- Achieve a smooth frosting finish: For a flawless frosting application, use a bench scraper or an offset spatula. Apply a thin layer of frosting (a crumb coat) first, refrigerate for about 30 minutes, and then add a final layer of frosting for a clean, professional look.
By incorporating these tips into your baking routine, you’ll not only enhance the quality of your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling but also gain confidence in your baking skills. Happy baking!
To keep your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here are some practical tips for storing and reheating your cake:
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Heat for about 10-15 seconds, checking to ensure it doesn’t get too hot. This will bring back some of the cake’s original moisture and enhance the flavors.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling at its best, whether it’s fresh out of the oven or a few days later!
When baking your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving a perfect result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense cake. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. A few lumps are okay!
- Not allowing cakes to cool completely before frosting: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting can melt and slide off. Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter, eggs, or milk can affect the texture of your cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
By being mindful of these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success and create a delightful Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that everyone will love!
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that can help you in your baking journey:
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
- Do I need any special equipment to make this cake? No, this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling does not require any special equipment. Basic baking tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups, and cake pans will suffice.
- Can I add more layers to the cake? It depends on your preference; you can add more layers for a taller cake. Just ensure you adjust the baking time accordingly if you use smaller pans.
As you embark on your baking journey with this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, I hope you find joy in every step of the process. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a way to create lasting memories with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with your own twists, and share your experiences in the comments below. Your stories and feedback inspire me and fellow bakers alike. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of vanilla and strawberries!
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Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and moist vanilla cake layered with fresh strawberry filling, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry jam on top of one cake layer, then add sliced strawberries.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost as desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
- Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling