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A beautifully decorated strawberry vanilla cake with fresh strawberries on top and a smooth, creamy pink frosting.

The Best Strawberry Vanilla Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Moist Delight


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

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
  • 34 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

  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

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. 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

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

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

 

  1. Trim the cake layers if necessary for even stacking.
  2. Spread frosting on the first layer, then place the second layer on top.
  3. Frost the entire cake with an even coat of frosting.
  4. 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