Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

Delight in the luscious layers of this Strawberry Vanilla Cake, a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:19:20.192Z

This Strawberry Vanilla Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla makes it a crowd-pleaser.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich strawberry flavor with a hint of vanilla
Light and fluffy texture that's simply irresistible
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration

      

The Perfect Celebration Cake

Strawberry Vanilla Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for any celebration. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary gathering, or just a casual get-together with friends, this cake brings a touch of elegance and joy. Its vibrant layers and sweet aroma will have your guests eagerly anticipating a slice. This cake is designed to impress, both in its appearance and its delightful flavor profile.

The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla creates a delightful symphony of tastes that is universally loved. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a comforting sweetness that balances perfectly with the freshness of strawberries. This cake is a wonderful way to celebrate life's special moments, creating lasting memories with every slice.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the light and fluffy texture of the Strawberry Vanilla Cake, it's essential to properly cream the butter and sugar. This step incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best results. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour; gently folding the ingredients together will ensure your cake retains its airy quality.

Using fresh strawberries for the filling is crucial. They provide a burst of flavor that frozen or canned strawberries can't match. When mixing the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, allow them to sit for a while to draw out their natural juices. This will enhance their flavor and create a delicious syrup that seeps into the cake, making each bite irresistibly moist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Strawberry Vanilla Cake is assembled, you may wonder how to store it. It's best kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing your cake with additional fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that your guests will rave about.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix just until combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, and beat until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the strawberry filling on top, followed by a layer of frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining strawberry filling and frosting.

Serve and Enjoy

Decorate the top with fresh strawberries if desired. Slice and serve this delightful cake at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Vanilla Cake!

Variations to Try

While this recipe is a classic, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a twist on flavor, consider adding a hint of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a more complex taste. Alternatively, you could replace some of the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry cake that captures the essence of summer.

If you're looking for a more decadent version, try incorporating layers of chocolate ganache between the cake and frosting. The richness of the chocolate pairs wonderfully with the strawberry and vanilla, creating a truly indulgent dessert that will satisfy chocolate lovers.

Nutritional Information

While Strawberry Vanilla Cake is undoubtedly a treat, it can be beneficial to understand its nutritional content. Each slice provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, making it a delightful indulgence during special occasions. However, it's important to enjoy it in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.

If you're conscious about sugar intake, consider using sugar substitutes or reducing the amount of sugar in the frosting and filling. Additionally, you can enhance the cake's nutritional profile by adding whole wheat flour or incorporating nuts for an added crunch and nutritional boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble them on the day of serving.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.