Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 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 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Strawberry Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:10:21.243Z

This Strawberry Vanilla Cake is a delightful combination of moist vanilla cake layers filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It's an ideal dessert for summer parties, birthdays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by fresh strawberries
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, our Strawberry Vanilla Cake is the ideal choice. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a showstopper that will impress your guests. This cake not only tastes amazing but also adds a beautiful touch to any dessert table.

With layers of fluffy vanilla cake paired with luscious strawberries and whipped cream, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and freshness. It’s a delightful way to welcome the warmer months and enjoy the bounty of seasonal strawberries.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This helps create a smooth and well-blended batter. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; mixing just until combined ensures a light and airy cake.

For a more intense strawberry flavor, you can macerate the sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar for about 30 minutes before using them in the cake. This will not only enhance their sweetness but also create a lovely syrup that can be drizzled on top for added moisture and flavor.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftover cake (which is unlikely, but possible!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cake can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

For serving, consider pairing the Strawberry Vanilla Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Fresh mint leaves can also be added as a garnish, elevating the presentation and adding a pop of color.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Filling and Topping Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing 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.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

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.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream and top with half of the sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream.

Decorate with the remaining strawberries.

Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones? While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a whipped topping or even Greek yogurt as a substitute. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the original recipe.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors in your cake! Adding lemon zest to the batter can give a refreshing citrus twist, while a splash of almond extract can enhance the vanilla base. You can also swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.

For a more decadent treat, consider adding layers of chocolate ganache between the cake layers. This will create a delightful contrast to the light vanilla and strawberry flavors, making it a rich and satisfying dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for best flavor and texture.

→ How do I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

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

→ How can I make the cake more flavorful?

Consider adding a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for extra strawberry flavor.