The Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful combination of rich, moist vanilla cake layers and a sweet, tangy strawberry filling. This dessert is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or even a casual weekend treat. The light vanilla flavor complements the vibrant strawberry filling, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and delicious.
Ingredients for the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Key Ingredients and Their Importance
To make a flawless Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cake. Room temperature butter is easier to mix and results in a smoother batter.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the cake rise and adding moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Essential for that classic vanilla flavor.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, ensuring it’s light and fluffy.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the cake, resulting in a tender crumb.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the filling, providing a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Sugar (for Filling): Sweetens the strawberries and helps create a syrupy consistency.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the filling.
- Whipped Cream or Frosting: Used to top the cake, adding a creamy contrast to the fruit filling.
Substitutions and Variations
Here’s how you can customize your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling to suit different preferences or dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, milk, and egg substitutes like flaxseed or applesauce.
- Lemon Cake: Add lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice to the batter for a lemony twist.
- Mixed Berry Filling: Instead of just strawberries, use a combination of berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a more complex flavor.
Where to Source Fresh Ingredients
For the best results, sourcing high-quality, fresh ingredients is key:
- Flour and Sugar: Purchase from a reputable brand to ensure consistency and quality.
- Butter and Eggs: Opt for organic, free-range eggs and high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for a deeper, more authentic flavor.
- Strawberries: Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the filling. Organic or farmers’ market strawberries often have the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Preparing the Vanilla Cake
The first step in making your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is baking the vanilla cake layers. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and set them aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter (room temperature) and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
- Bake the Cake Layers: 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 remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Strawberry Filling
While the cake is baking and cooling, you can prepare the strawberry filling:
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and hull 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Chop them into small pieces.
- Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool completely before using it in the cake.
Assembling the Cake
Once your cake layers and strawberry filling are ready, it’s time to assemble your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:
- Level the Cake Layers: If necessary, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cake layers so they are flat.
- Add the Filling: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the top, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the strawberry filling. Gently press down to secure the layers together.
- Frost the Cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with whipped cream or your favorite frosting. Decorate with fresh strawberries or extra sprinkles if desired.
Serving Suggestions
The Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make it even more special:
- Fresh Strawberries: Serve with additional fresh strawberries on the side for a fruity burst of flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast to the rich cake.
- Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For more dessert inspiration, check out our article on how to make brookies with brownie mix or explore our mandarin orange cake recipe. If you’re looking for tips on how to store leftover cake, our guide on how to store sourdough bread offers useful advice that can also apply to cakes.
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Achieving the Best Cake Texture
To ensure your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is light, fluffy, and moist:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Properly Grease Pans: Grease and flour your cake pans thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure clean edges.
Perfecting the Strawberry Filling
For a delicious and vibrant strawberry filling:
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will yield the best flavor. Avoid using frozen strawberries as they can make the filling too watery.
- Cook to Thicken: Cook the filling until it’s thick enough to hold its shape when spread on the cake, but not too thick that it becomes jam-like.
Enhancing the Cake
Looking to elevate your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling? Try these ideas:
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cake batter for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the strawberry filling.
- Almond Extract: Replace half of the vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake for a luxurious touch.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content of the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:
- Calories: Each slice typically contains around 350-450 calories, depending on the size of the slice and the type of frosting used.
- Sugar: The cake and filling contribute to a high sugar content, so enjoy in moderation if watching sugar intake.
- Fat: The fat content mainly comes from the butter and frosting, totaling around 15-25 grams per slice.
- Protein: The cake provides about 4-6 grams of protein per serving, mostly from the eggs and milk.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
While the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is an indulgent dessert, it offers some nutritional benefits:
- Strawberries: Rich in vitamins C and antioxidants, strawberries contribute to overall health and wellness.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline and B vitamins.
- Milk: Adds calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health.
Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs
Here are some ways to make the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling suitable for various dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake gluten-free.
- Sugar-Free: Substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Strawberry Jam Instead of Making the Filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought strawberry jam as a shortcut. However, homemade filling made with fresh strawberries will give you a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
How Should I Store the Cake?
Store the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the cake is frosted with whipped cream, it’s best served within 1-2 days.
Can I Freeze the Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before assembly. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling the cake.
What’s the Best Way to Serve the Cake?
Serve the cake chilled or at room temperature. The strawberry filling will hold up better if the cake is slightly chilled, especially in warm weather.
How Do I Make Homemade Whipped Cream?
To make homemade whipped cream, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Use immediately to frost the cake.
Conclusion
The Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a classic dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. With its light and fluffy vanilla layers, vibrant strawberry filling, and creamy frosting, this cake is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is a delightful choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
For expert tips on baking cakes, check out this comprehensive guide from King Arthur Baking. If you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of strawberries, this article from Healthline provides valuable insights.