The Best Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Moist Delight

Few desserts capture the essence of sweetness and elegance like strawberry vanilla cake. With its light, fluffy vanilla layers and the fresh, fruity burst of strawberries, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just as a treat. But what makes this cake truly exceptional? The balance of flavors, the right ingredients, and the perfect baking techniques all contribute to a moist and delicious cake.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best strawberry vanilla cake—from selecting the finest ingredients to baking tips, decorating ideas, and even variations to suit different dietary needs. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about this delightful dessert.

Let’s dive into the world of strawberry vanilla cake and discover how you can bake a show-stopping dessert right in your own kitchen!

Why Strawberry and Vanilla Are the Perfect Pair

The Timeless Flavor Combination

Strawberry and vanilla have been a classic pairing in desserts for decades. The rich, warm notes of vanilla perfectly balance the sweet, slightly tart taste of strawberries, creating a harmony of flavors that appeals to everyone. This combination works wonderfully in cakes, ice creams, milkshakes, and even pastries.

The Popularity of Strawberry Vanilla Cake

This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s also visually stunning! The contrast of creamy white vanilla cake and vibrant red strawberry filling makes it a centerpiece-worthy dessert. It’s a favorite at weddings, birthdays, and summer gatherings, thanks to its light, refreshing taste.

Ingredients for the Perfect Strawberry Vanilla Cake

The secret to a moist and flavorful strawberry vanilla cake lies in using high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need for both the cake and frosting.

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To create a fluffy and tender vanilla cake with a burst of strawberry flavor, gather these ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake.
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – Adds moisture and richness.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps retain moisture.
• 4 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent and adds richness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Infuses the cake with a deep vanilla aroma.
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk) – Keeps the cake soft and fluffy.

Strawberry Additions:

• 1 cup fresh strawberry puree – Infuses natural strawberry flavor.
• ½ cup finely chopped strawberries – Adds bursts of real fruit in every bite.

Key Ingredients for the Frosting

A smooth, creamy vanilla-strawberry frosting is the perfect finishing touch for this cake.

For Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – Forms the base of the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar – Creates a light, fluffy texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – Adjusts the consistency.

For Strawberry Addition (Optional):

• ¼ cup strawberry puree – Adds a fruity touch to the buttercream.
• A few drops of red food coloring (optional) – Intensifies the pink hue for a decorative touch.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

If you’d like to tweak the recipe, here are some ideas:

• For a richer cake: Replace half of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• For a lighter cake: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an extra tender crumb.
• For a dairy-free version: Swap out the butter for vegan butter and the milk for almond or oat milk.
• For added texture: Mix in white chocolate chips or toasted almonds for extra crunch.

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step baking process to bring this delicious cake to life!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making the perfect strawberry vanilla cake.

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step helps incorporate air, making the cake soft.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding flour and milk – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix, or the cake will become dense.
6. Fold in the strawberry puree – Gently stir in the strawberry puree and chopped strawberries, ensuring an even distribution without overmixing.

Step 2: Baking the Cake to Perfection

1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven too soon, as this can cause the cake to collapse.
3. Cool the cakes – Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Making the Strawberry Vanilla Frosting

1. Beat the butter – In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar – Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud.
3. Mix in vanilla and cream – Add vanilla extract and heavy cream (or milk), then beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add strawberry puree (optional) – If making strawberry buttercream, mix in strawberry puree for a fruity twist.

Step 4: Assembling and Decorating the Cake

1. Trim the cake layers (if needed) to make them level.
2. Spread a layer of frosting on the first cake layer, then place the second layer on top.
3. Frost the entire cake – Use a spatula to evenly spread the frosting around the sides and top.
4. Decorate as desired – Garnish with fresh strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for an elegant finish.

For the best fruit flavor, consider making your own Strawberry Puree to use in the cake batter.

Tips for a Moist and Flavorful Strawberry Vanilla Cake

A perfectly baked strawberry vanilla cake is soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Follow these expert tips to ensure your cake stays moist and delicious every time.

1. How to Keep Your Cake Moist

Use Buttermilk or Sour Cream

• Replacing part of the milk with buttermilk or sour cream adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• These ingredients help prevent the cake from drying out and enhance the vanilla flavor.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing can lead to a dense and dry cake.
• Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Measure Ingredients Correctly

• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
• Too much flour can make the cake dry, so always spoon and level when measuring.

Avoid Overbaking

• Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick.
• If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

2. Best Frosting Techniques for a Smooth Finish

Chill the Cake Layers Before Frosting

• Cool the cakes completely before applying frosting.
• Refrigerating the layers for 30 minutes makes them sturdier and easier to frost.

Apply a Crumb Coat

• Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cake to trap crumbs.
• Refrigerate for 15 minutes before adding the final layer of frosting for a smooth finish.

Use an Offset Spatula

• An offset spatula or a cake scraper helps create a neat, professional look.
• For an extra smooth appearance, dip the spatula in warm water before spreading the frosting.

3. Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• In the Freezer: Wrap individual cake slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Pair with a strawberry sauce or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the perfect treat.

The Best Fruit and Flavor Pairings for Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Strawberry vanilla cake is already delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors can elevate its taste even more. Here are some of the best fruit and flavor combinations to enhance this cake.

1. Fruits That Enhance the Flavor

Raspberries

• Slightly tart and vibrant, raspberries complement the sweetness of strawberries and add a burst of flavor.
• Try adding fresh raspberries between the cake layers or as a decorative topping.

Blueberries

• Blueberries provide a juicy and mildly sweet contrast to the cake.
• You can mix them into the batter or serve them alongside a slice of cake.

Peaches

• Their soft, juicy texture and delicate sweetness blend well with vanilla.
• A thin layer of peach jam between cake layers adds extra moisture and flavor.

Bananas

• Bananas enhance the cake’s richness and create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture when mashed into the batter.
• A strawberry-banana frosting can also be a delicious variation.

Lemon or Orange Zest

• A touch of citrus zest balances the sweetness of the cake and adds a refreshing aroma.
• A light lemon glaze can also enhance the overall flavor.

2. Other Flavor Combinations That Work Well

White Chocolate

• The creaminess of white chocolate complements both vanilla and strawberries.
• Add white chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted white chocolate over the cake.

Almond Extract

• A small amount of almond extract enhances the nutty sweetness of vanilla and pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Sprinkle sliced toasted almonds on top for extra crunch.

Coconut

• The tropical notes of coconut add depth and texture to the cake.
• Try using coconut milk in the batter or garnishing with toasted coconut flakes.

Dark Chocolate

• If you love a bolder contrast, add a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache for a rich, decadent touch.
• Strawberries and chocolate are a classic combination that never fails!

By incorporating these fruits and flavors, you can create a unique variation of strawberry vanilla cake that suits your taste. Up next, let’s explore common baking mistakes to avoid to ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Baking a perfect strawberry vanilla cake requires attention to detail. Even small mistakes can lead to dry, dense, or uneven cakes. Here are the most common baking mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Overmixing the Batter

Why It’s a Problem:

• Overmixing develops too much gluten, making the cake dense and chewy instead of light and fluffy.

How to Avoid It:

• Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use low speed when adding the flour mixture to avoid overworking the batter.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Strawberries

Why It’s a Problem:

• Fresh strawberries have high water content, which can make the batter too wet and lead to a soggy cake.

How to Avoid It:

• Use strawberry puree instead of chopped fresh strawberries in the batter.
• If using fresh strawberries, pat them dry before adding to avoid excess moisture.

3. Incorrect Oven Temperature

Why It’s a Problem:

• Baking at too high a temperature can cause the cake to rise too fast and collapse.
• Too low a temperature can make the cake dense and undercooked.

How to Avoid It:

• Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.

4. Not Properly Preparing the Cake Pans

Why It’s a Problem:

• If the cake sticks to the pan, it can break apart when removed.

How to Avoid It:

• Grease the pans with butter or non-stick spray.
• Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

5. Opening the Oven Door Too Early

Why It’s a Problem:

• Sudden drops in temperature can cause the cake to sink in the middle.

How to Avoid It:

• Avoid opening the oven before the cake is set (at least the first 20 minutes).
• Check doneness using a toothpick test—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

6. Using Cold Ingredients

Why It’s a Problem:

• Cold butter and eggs don’t blend well, leading to an uneven texture.

How to Avoid It:

• Bring butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before mixing.
• Let eggs sit in warm water for 5 minutes if you forget to take them out early.

By avoiding these mistakes, your strawberry vanilla cake will turn out moist, fluffy, and perfect every time.

Looking for a similar treat? Try this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe for a crispy twist on a classic strawberry dessert.

FAQs

When baking a strawberry vanilla cake, you might have some questions about flavors, ingredients, and techniques. Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Variations and Creative Twists on Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Looking for a fun twist on the classic strawberry vanilla cake? Whether you want a unique presentation, a healthier alternative, or a festive variation, these creative ideas will help you customize your cake to suit any occasion.

1. Strawberry Vanilla Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love It:

• Perfect for parties, gatherings, or portion control.
• Easy to serve and decorate individually.

How to Make It:

• Use the same cake batter but pour it into lined cupcake tins instead.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Frost with vanilla or strawberry buttercream and top with a fresh strawberry slice or sprinkles.

2. Layered Strawberry Vanilla Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love It:

• A decadent mix of creamy cheesecake and fluffy cake layers.
• Perfect for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.

How to Make It:

• Bake a vanilla cake layer and let it cool.
• Prepare a no-bake strawberry cheesecake layer using cream cheese, whipped cream, and strawberry puree.
• Layer the cheesecake on top of the vanilla cake and chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

3. Gluten-Free Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Why You’ll Love It:

• A great option for gluten-sensitive or celiac-friendly diets.
• Just as moist and delicious as the traditional version.

How to Make It:

• Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
• Add an extra egg or 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to improve structure.
• Ensure all other ingredients (like vanilla extract) are gluten-free certified.

4. Vegan Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Why You’ll Love It:

• 100% dairy-free and egg-free.
• Still moist, fluffy, and flavorful.

How to Make It:

• Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Swap milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
• Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
• Opt for coconut whipped cream instead of traditional buttercream.

5. Strawberry Shortcake-Inspired Layer Cake

Why You’ll Love It:

• A lighter, fluffier version of the classic shortcake.
• Fresh whipped cream makes it extra soft and airy.

How to Make It:

• Bake two layers of vanilla cake and let them cool.
• Whip heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form.
• Layer the cake with whipped cream and fresh sliced strawberries.
• Serve immediately for a fresh, summery dessert.

6. Chocolate-Strawberry Vanilla Cake (Neapolitan Cake)

Why You’ll Love It:

• A three-layer cake featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors.
• Inspired by Neapolitan ice cream.

How to Make It:

• Divide the batter into three parts.
• Leave one part vanilla, mix cocoa powder into another for chocolate, and stir in strawberry puree for the third.
• Layer and bake, then frost with vanilla or chocolate frosting.

7. Strawberry Vanilla Bundt Cake

Why You’ll Love It:

• Easy to make and doesn’t require frosting.
• Looks elegant when drizzled with glaze.

How to Make It:

• Use the same batter but bake in a Bundt pan at 350°F for 40–45 minutes.
• Drizzle with a strawberry glaze (powdered sugar + strawberry puree + milk).
• Garnish with sliced strawberries and powdered sugar.

8. Strawberries and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Why You’ll Love It:

• Perfect for summer or warm-weather celebrations.
• A cool, refreshing take on strawberry vanilla cake.

How to Make It:

• Bake and cool a thin vanilla cake layer.
• Spread a layer of strawberry ice cream over the cake.
• Freeze until firm, then frost with whipped cream.
• Decorate with strawberries and white chocolate shavings.

With these creative variations, you can customize your strawberry vanilla cake for any occasion or dietary need.

If you love strawberries in desserts, you might enjoy this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad—a creamy, fruity treat with a cheesecake twist.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A strawberry vanilla cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a timeless combination of flavors that brings joy to every occasion. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a holiday, or just because you crave something sweet, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

By following the step-by-step guide, using high-quality ingredients, and avoiding common baking mistakes, you’ll achieve a moist, flavorful, and beautifully decorated cake every time.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the creative variations, like gluten-free, vegan, Neapolitan, or strawberry shortcake-inspired versions. There are endless ways to make this classic cake your own!

Final Baking Tips:

• Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter—gentle folding is key!
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Now it’s time to bake, decorate, and enjoy your delicious strawberry vanilla cake! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll love it just as much as you do.

For more strawberry-inspired dessert ideas, check out these Strawberry Cream Cheese Recipes to add even more delicious flavors to your baking.

The Best Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Moist Delight

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• Author: chef Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: One 9-inch layered cake 1x

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Description

This Strawberry Vanilla Cake is a delightful combination of light, fluffy vanilla cake layers infused with fresh strawberry puree and topped with a creamy vanilla-strawberry frosting. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want a sweet and elegant dessert, this cake is a showstopper with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake:

• Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

• Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)

• Strawberry Additions:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
  • ½ cup finely chopped strawberries

For the Vanilla-Strawberry Frosting:

 

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• Optional Strawberry Addition:
  • ¼ cup strawberry puree
  • A few drops of red food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Gently fold in strawberry puree and chopped strawberries, being careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

10. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.
11. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
12. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat on high for 2–3 minutes until fluffy.
13. If using, mix in strawberry puree for a fruity twist.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

 

14. Trim the cake layers if necessary for even stacking.
15. Spread frosting on the first layer, then place the second layer on top.
16. Frost the entire cake with an even coat of frosting.
17. Decorate with fresh strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles.

Notes

• For a richer cake: Replace half of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• For a dairy-free version: Use almond or oat milk and vegan butter.
• For extra texture: Add white chocolate chips or toasted almonds.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10–12 slices
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Protein: 5g