When it comes to desserts, there’s something undeniably charming about a classic vanilla cake. Its simplicity, combined with a timeless elegance, makes it a favorite choice for various occasions. But why stop at just vanilla when you can elevate your cake to a whole new level of deliciousness? Enter the delightful world of Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling!
The Perfect Combination
Vanilla and strawberries – a match made in dessert heaven. The subtle sweetness of vanilla cake pairs beautifully with the tartness and vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries. Together, they create a harmonious blend of taste and texture that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
The Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Frosting (optional):
- 2 cups whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
The Steps
1. Prepare the Vanilla Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the strawberries begin to release their juices and soften.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the strawberries and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes and strawberry filling are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble the cake.
- Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of strawberry filling over the top, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.
- If desired, frost the top and sides of the cake with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
- You can also garnish the cake with additional sliced strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Tips and Variations
- Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: While fresh strawberries are ideal for the filling, you can use frozen strawberries if they’re not in season. Just thaw them and use the same way as fresh ones.
- Homemade Frosting: While the whipped cream or cream cheese frosting is a fantastic choice, you can also make your own frosting from scratch. A homemade cream cheese frosting can add an extra layer of richness to the cake.
- Decorations: Get creative with your cake decorations. Consider using edible flowers, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles to add a touch of flair to your creation.
- Layered or Sheet Cake: This recipe works beautifully for a layered cake, but you can adapt it to a sheet cake or cupcakes if you prefer a different presentation. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Serve Chilled: Vanilla cake with strawberry filling is even more refreshing when served chilled. Pop it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving on a hot summer day.
- Personalized Touch: Add a personalized touch by writing a special message or name on the cake using icing. It’s a thoughtful gesture for birthdays and special occasions.
Hosting a Strawberry-Themed Gathering
If you’re truly smitten with the combination of vanilla and strawberries, why not consider hosting a strawberry-themed gathering? This could be a charming afternoon tea, a summer picnic, or even a garden party. Here are a few ideas to make your event extra special:
1. Strawberry Shortcake Bar:
Set up a DIY strawberry shortcake bar with freshly baked vanilla cake slices, bowls of strawberry filling, whipped cream, and an assortment of toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, and sprinkles. Let your guests create their own strawberry shortcake masterpieces.
2. Strawberry-infused Drinks:
Complement your dessert with strawberry-infused beverages. Make a refreshing strawberry lemonade, a strawberry and basil sparkling water, or even a strawberry-infused cocktail for the adults.
3. Strawberry Decor:
Decorate your space with a strawberry theme. Use strawberry-patterned tablecloths, place fresh strawberries in decorative bowls, and incorporate strawberry-themed centerpieces or banners.
4. Games and Activities:
Organize strawberry-themed games and activities. Consider a strawberry picking excursion, a strawberry-themed scavenger hunt, or even a strawberry dessert decorating contest for your guests.
5. Party Favors:
Send your guests home with strawberry-inspired party favors. These could be small jars of homemade strawberry jam, strawberry-scented candles, or even strawberry-shaped cookies.
6. Strawberry Recipes:
In addition to the vanilla cake with strawberry filling, prepare other strawberry-inspired dishes. Strawberry salads, strawberry bruschetta, or even savory dishes with a strawberry glaze can add variety to your menu.
7. Music Playlist:
Create a playlist of songs that feature strawberries or have a summery vibe to set the mood for your gathering. It can be a fun and lighthearted addition to the party.
Vanilla Cake Recipes
| Recipe Name | Ingredients | Preparation Time (min) | Baking Time (min) | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Vanilla | Flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract | 15 | 30 | Easy |
| Strawberry Swirl | Vanilla cake mix, strawberries, cream | 20 | 35 | Intermediate |
| Layered Delight | Vanilla cake layers, strawberry filling | 25 | 40 | Advanced |
| Vegan Vanilla | Plant-based ingredients | 30 | 35 | Intermediate |
| Vanilla Cupcakes | Cake batter, strawberry jam | 15 | 20 | Easy |
| Vanilla Pound | Butter, sugar, vanilla, strawberry syrup | 20 | 50 | Intermediate |
| Mini Strawberry | Mini vanilla cakes, strawberry compote | 15 | 25 | Easy |
| Vanilla Cheesecake | Vanilla cake crust, strawberry topping | 20 | 45 | Advanced |
| Summer Delight | Vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries | 25 | 35 | Intermediate |
| Strawberry Swirl | Swirled vanilla cake, strawberry filling | 20 | 40 | Easy |
Strawberry Filling Variations
| Filling Type | Ingredients | Texture | Sweetness Level | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Strawberry Compote | Fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice | Chunky | Medium | Vanilla cake, pancakes |
| Strawberry Jam | Strawberries, pectin, sugar | Smooth | High | Toast, pastries |
| Strawberry Mousse | Whipped cream, strawberry puree, gelatin | Light and airy | Medium | Cake filling, parfaits |
| Strawberry Cream Cheese | Cream cheese, strawberries, powdered sugar | Creamy | Medium | Bagels, cupcakes |
| Sliced Fresh Strawberries | Fresh strawberries | Fresh and juicy | High | Tarts, pavlova |
| Strawberry Coulis | Blended strawberries, sugar, lemon juice | Smooth and thin | High | Ice cream, cheesecake |
| Strawberry Custard | Egg yolks, milk, sugar, strawberry puree | Creamy | Medium | Pastries, tarts |
| Strawberry Whipped Cream | Whipped cream, strawberry extract, sugar | Light and fluffy | High | Cupcakes, trifles |
| Strawberry Buttercream | Butter, powdered sugar, strawberry puree | Creamy | High | Cakes, cookies |
| Strawberry Ganache | Chocolate, cream, strawberry puree | Smooth and glossy | Medium | Brownies, truffles |
Cake Presentation Ideas
| Presentation Style | Description | Decoration Ideas | Occasions | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naked Cake | Minimal frosting, exposed layers | Fresh strawberries, mint leaves | Summer weddings, birthdays | Easy |
| Ombre Cake | Gradual color change from top to bottom | Ombre rosettes, edible glitter | Gender reveal parties | Intermediate |
| Strawberry Drip Cake | Ganache dripped over the cake’s edges | Dripped ganache, chocolate shavings | Valentine’s Day, anniversaries | Intermediate |
| Garden Party Cake | Decorated with edible flowers and herbs | Edible flowers, lavender sprigs | Bridal showers, tea parties | Advanced |
| Strawberry Shortcake Cake | Layers mimic classic shortcake | Whipped cream, fresh strawberries | Summer gatherings, picnics | Easy |
| Vintage Cake | Vintage-inspired design with lace patterns | Lace stenciling, edible pearls | Vintage-themed weddings | Advanced |
| Strawberry Bouquet Cake | Shaped like a bouquet of strawberries | Strawberry roses, green fondant leaves | Mother’s Day, spring events | Intermediate |
| Watercolor Cake | Watercolor painting effect on frosting | Pastel colors, edible gold accents | Art-themed events | Intermediate |
| Strawberry Explosion Cake | Overflowing with strawberry filling | Strawberries spilling out, chocolate drizzle | Celebrations, parties | Easy |
| Rustic Buttercream Cake | Textured buttercream and a natural look | Wood grain texture, burlap ribbon | Rustic weddings, barn events | Easy |
Popular Cake Sizes
| Cake Size | Diameter (inches) | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 6-inch Round Cake | 6 | 8-10 |
| 8-inch Round Cake | 8 | 12-16 |
| 9-inch Round Cake | 9 | 18-24 |
| 10-inch Round Cake | 10 | 28-32 |
| 12-inch Round Cake | 12 | 40-48 |
| 6-inch Square Cake | 6 | 12-16 |
| 8-inch Square Cake | 8 | 24-32 |
| 9-inch Square Cake | 9 | 32-40 |
| 10-inch Square Cake | 10 | 40-50 |
| 12-inch Square Cake | 12 | 60-72 |
Cake Topping Options
| Topping Type | Description | Complements | Occasions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Strawberries | Sliced or whole strawberries | Strawberry-filled cakes, whipped cream | Summer birthdays, brunches |
| Chocolate Shavings | Grated chocolate curls or shavings | Chocolate cakes, ganache | Anniversaries, decadent cakes |
| Edible Flowers | Small edible blossoms | Floral-themed cakes, garden parties | Spring weddings, tea parties |
| Sprinkles | Colorful candy or sugar sprinkles | Funfetti cakes, colorful themes | Kids’ birthdays, celebrations |
| Fondant Decorations | Sculpted fondant figures or shapes | Custom-themed cakes, character cakes | Themed parties, special events |
| Nuts and Berries | Chopped nuts and mixed berries | Nutty cakes, berry fillings | Autumn weddings, rustic cakes |
| Gold Leaf | Edible gold or silver leaf | Elegant cakes, luxury designs | Black-tie events, upscale occasions |
| Caramel Drizzle | Drizzled caramel sauce | Caramel-flavored cakes, cheesecakes | Dessert tables, caramel lovers |
Conclusion
Vanilla cake with strawberry filling is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of summer, a celebration of simplicity, and a sweet indulgence that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply because you want to treat yourself and your loved ones, it’s a recipe that brings joy to the table.
So, embrace the magic of vanilla and strawberries, and let your culinary creativity shine. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or savoring a slice in solitude, this delightful dessert is bound to be a cherished favorite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of vanilla and the bright, fruity essence of strawberries!
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