Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Name: Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

Delight in the fresh flavors of our Strawberry Vanilla Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:34:20.486Z

This Strawberry Vanilla Cake is a classic dessert that brings joy to any celebration. The combination of light vanilla sponge and fresh strawberries creates a refreshing treat that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Light and fluffy vanilla sponge paired with fresh strawberries
Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion

      

A Perfect Dessert for Any Celebration

Strawberry Vanilla Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a visual delight that elevates any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating an anniversary, or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake is sure to impress. The vibrant red strawberries against the soft, pale yellow of the vanilla sponge create a stunning contrast that beckons to be sliced.

What makes this cake even more appealing is its versatility. You can serve it as a charming centerpiece for a summer barbecue or as a sophisticated dessert for a formal dinner. With its light texture and refreshing flavors, it’s the perfect way to conclude any meal.

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

The secret to the incredible taste of this Strawberry Vanilla Cake lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures that the filling bursts with flavor, providing a delightful contrast to the sweet vanilla frosting. Opt for seasonal strawberries for the best results, as they will be at their peak sweetness and juiciness.

Furthermore, using real vanilla extract instead of artificial flavoring enhances the cake's overall flavor profile. The combination of high-quality ingredients not only makes the cake taste better but also adds a personal touch that shows your guests how much you care.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve a perfectly baked Strawberry Vanilla Cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar, as this will help ensure consistency. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened correctly; it should be pliable but not melting. This will help create a light and airy cake.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to baking a cake that’s not only beautiful but also delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs

For the Strawberry Filling

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to release juices.

Make the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until well blended.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly into two greased round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until smooth. Mix in vanilla.

Assemble the Cake

Once cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberries and some frosting. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.

Serve

Garnish with additional strawberries if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Vanilla Cake!

Storing Your Strawberry Vanilla Cake

This Strawberry Vanilla Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider storing the cake layers and frosting separately, assembling them just before serving for optimal freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unassembled cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired.

Variations to Try

While the classic Strawberry Vanilla Cake is delightful as is, don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding a layer of lemon curd or cream cheese frosting for an added zing that complements the strawberries beautifully. You can also experiment with different berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry version.

For those who prefer a chocolate twist, try incorporating cocoa powder into the cake batter for a chocolate vanilla hybrid. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize this cake to suit your personal taste or the season!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries provide better flavor and texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free alternative if needed.