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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in strawberry puree and chopped strawberries, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 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
- In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat on high for 2–3 minutes until fluffy.
- If using, mix in strawberry puree for a fruity twist.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Trim the cake layers if necessary for even stacking.
- Spread frosting on the first layer, then place the second layer on top.
- Frost the entire cake with an even coat of frosting.
- 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