Cake with Strawberry Filling Recipe

Who doesn’t love a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? If you’ve been searching for the perfect cake with strawberry filling recipe, you’re in for a treat! This homemade strawberry cake is a delightful blend of moist vanilla layers and a luscious strawberry filling for cake that bursts with fresh, fruity flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet escape, this recipe is versatile, approachable, and sure to impress.

Imagine slicing into a tender strawberry vanilla cake, revealing vibrant layers of fruit filling for cake that make every bite unforgettable. Ready to create a dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits

Why should you make this cake with strawberry filling recipe? Let’s dive into what makes this dessert a standout favorite:

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The sweet-tart strawberry filling paired with fluffy vanilla cake layers creates a harmony of flavors that’s simply divine.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a weekend treat, this homemade strawberry cake is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Fresh and Fruity: Using real strawberries in the filling ensures a burst of natural, vibrant flavor that’s far superior to store-bought alternatives.
• Easy to Customize: This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Add chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, or even swap the fruit filling for cake with other berries for a unique twist.
• Beginner-Friendly: Don’t worry if you’re not a baking pro—this recipe breaks down each step so you can confidently create a stunning dessert.

This strawberry vanilla cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the first bite to the last, you’ll savor the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and freshness. Ready to bake something extraordinary? Let’s gather your ingredients and get started!

Ingredients

Before we dive into baking this dreamy cake with strawberry filling recipe, let’s gather everything you’ll need. I’ve broken it down into two parts: the cake and the strawberry filling for cake. Trust me, using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make all the difference!

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Optional for Decoration:

• Fresh strawberries or strawberry slices
• Whipped cream or vanilla frosting
• Mint leaves for a pop of color

Pro Tips for Ingredient Prep:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and more even baking.
• Fresh Strawberries: While fresh strawberries are ideal for the filling, you can use frozen ones in a pinch—just thaw and drain them well.
• Customize Your Cake: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist or add a layer of cream cheese frosting to complement the strawberry vanilla cake.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a homemade strawberry cake that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Let’s move on to the fun part—baking!

Instructions

Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this cake with strawberry filling recipe to life! I’ll guide you through each step, making sure your homemade strawberry cake turns out perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, these clear instructions will make the process a breeze.

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of chopped strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the strawberry mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. This strawberry filling for cake can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened butter and 1 ¾ cups of sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add 4 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling evenly over the top, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Gently place the second cake layer on top. If desired, frost the outside of the cake with whipped cream or vanilla frosting for a polished finish.
3. Decorate with fresh strawberry slices, a drizzle of leftover fruit filling for cake, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Level Your Cake Layers: If the cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them before assembling. This ensures a stable and even cake.
• Chill Before Serving: For cleaner slices, refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving.
• Customize the Filling: Swap strawberries with raspberries or mixed berries for a different twist on this strawberry vanilla cake.
• Double the Filling: If you’re a strawberry lover, make extra filling to layer between the cakes or serve on the side. READ ALSO

And there you have it—a stunning cake with strawberry filling recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Now, let’s explore some creative variations and pro tips to take your dessert to the next level!

Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of this cake with strawberry filling recipe, let’s take it up a notch with some expert tips and creative variations. Whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors or troubleshoot common baking challenges, these insights will help you create a homemade strawberry cake that’s uniquely yours.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use butter, eggs, and milk at room temperature. This ensures a smooth batter and even baking, giving your strawberry vanilla cake a flawless texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough layers instead of light, fluffy ones.
• Cool Completely Before Assembling: If the cake layers or strawberry filling for cake are even slightly warm, the filling can make the cake soggy. Patience is key!
• Use a Cake Turntable: If you’re frosting the cake, a turntable makes it easier to achieve a smooth, professional finish.
• Add a Simple Syrup Soak: Brush the cake layers with a light sugar syrup (equal parts water and sugar, heated until dissolved) to keep them moist and add a touch of sweetness.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Chocolate-Strawberry Twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers or drizzle it over the top for a decadent twist on this fruit filling for cake.
2. Lemon-Strawberry Combo: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter and a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a bright, zesty flavor.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the whipped cream or vanilla frosting with a tangy cream cheese frosting to complement the sweetness of the strawberry filling.
4. Mixed Berry Filling: Combine strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a vibrant, mixed-berry filling.
5. Mini Cakes: Use smaller cake pans or muffin tins to create individual-sized strawberry vanilla cakes—perfect for parties or portion control!
6. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe accessible to everyone.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soggy Cake Layers: If your cake layers are too moist, you may have overfilled them with the strawberry filling. Use a thinner layer or chill the filling before assembling.
• Cake Sticking to the Pan: Always grease your pans thoroughly and line them with parchment paper. If the cake still sticks, run a knife around the edges before flipping.
• Filling Too Runny: If your strawberry filling for cake isn’t thickening, add a bit more cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and cook for an extra minute.

With these tips and variations, you can customize this cake with strawberry filling recipe to suit any occasion or preference. Ready to serve up your masterpiece? Let’s move on to some delightful serving suggestions!

Serving Suggestions

Your cake with strawberry filling recipe is ready to shine, and now it’s time to present it in a way that wows your guests or makes your family dinner extra special. Here are some creative and practical serving ideas to elevate your homemade strawberry cake from delicious to unforgettable.

Presentation Ideas

1. Classic Elegance: Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberry halves and mint leaves for a simple yet stunning look.
2. Layered Beauty: Slice the cake to reveal the vibrant strawberry filling layers, showcasing the gorgeous contrast between the cake and filling.
3. Berry Medley: Arrange a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries around the base of the cake for a colorful, fruity touch.
4. Whipped Cream Swirls: Pipe dollops of whipped cream around the edges of the cake and top each swirl with a small strawberry or chocolate shavings.
5. Edible Flowers: Add a few edible flowers, like pansies or rose petals, for a whimsical, Instagram-worthy finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Beverages: Serve slices of this strawberry vanilla cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a glass of cold milk, or a sparkling rosé for a touch of sophistication.
• Ice Cream: Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or strawberry sorbet for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: Complement the cake with a side of mixed fruit salad for a refreshing, balanced dessert spread.

Occasion-Specific Ideas

• Birthdays: Add candles and a personalized cake topper to turn this homemade strawberry cake into the centerpiece of a birthday celebration.
• Brunch: Serve smaller slices alongside a brunch spread of quiches, pastries, and mimosas for a sweet ending to the meal.
• Picnics: Pack individual slices in portable containers for a charming dessert option at outdoor gatherings.
• Holidays: Decorate the cake with seasonal touches, like red and green strawberries for Christmas or pastel-colored frosting for Easter.

Storing and Serving Tips

• Room Temperature: Let the cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving if it’s been refrigerated. This allows the flavors to fully shine.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The strawberry filling for cake may soften the layers over time, so enjoy it fresh if possible!
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

With these serving suggestions, your cake with strawberry filling recipe will not only taste amazing but also look like a work of art. Now, let’s wrap things up with a heartfelt conclusion and answer some common questions!

Conclusion

Congratulations—you’ve just created a show-stopping cake with strawberry filling recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat! This homemade strawberry cake is the perfect blend of moist vanilla layers and luscious strawberry filling for cake, making it a dessert that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The versatility of this strawberry vanilla cake means you can customize it to suit any taste or event, from birthdays to brunches and everything in between.

Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting. Don’t be afraid to try new variations, like adding a chocolate drizzle or swapping the fruit filling for cake with your favorite berries. Every slice of this cake is a celebration of flavor, creativity, and the joy of sharing something homemade.

So, gather your loved ones, slice into this masterpiece, and savor the sweet moments together. Happy baking!

P.S. If you have any questions or want to share your baking success, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear how your cake with strawberry filling recipe turned out!

FAQs

Got questions about this cake with strawberry filling recipe? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some common queries to help you bake with confidence and make this homemade strawberry cake a total success.

I hope these FAQs make your baking journey smoother and more enjoyable! If you have more questions or want to share your experience with this cake with strawberry filling recipe, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!