Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, let me introduce you to my beloved Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling. This cake is a true crowd-pleaser, with its fluffy layers and luscious strawberry compote. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy evening treat, this cake will surely bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple and rewarding it is to make. The combination of creamy vanilla buttercream and sweet strawberry filling creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the moist texture and fruity filling.
• Make-ahead convenience: The components can be made ahead of time, so you can assemble the cake when you’re ready.
• Versatile flavor options: You can easily adapt the filling or frosting to suit your taste or seasonal fruits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need for the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

For the Cake

• 200 grams (1 1/2 cups) All-Purpose Flour (I use Gold Medal)
• 2 Tablespoons Instant Clearjel or 3 Tablespoons White Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 3/4 teaspoon Salt
• 3/4 cup Buttermilk
• 1/4 cup Water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 2 1/4 teaspoons Almond Extract or additional Vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar
• 200 grams (1 cup) Sugar
• 1 stick (4 oz) Salted Butter (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
• 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 1 large Egg(s)
• 2 Egg Whites
• 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar

For the Filling and Frosting

• 1 x batch prepared Strawberry Compote
• 1 x batch prepared Vanilla Bakery Buttercream Frosting

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and fillings. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the fruit: Use fresh blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different berry twist.
• Change the extracts: Try using only vanilla extract for a more classic flavor profile.
• Add citrus zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest in the batter can brighten up the flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Replace some flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version of this moist cake.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cake rises properly and bakes evenly. While your oven heats up, prepare your baking pans by greasing them lightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, Instant Clearjel (or pudding mix), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), apple cider vinegar, sugar, salted butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, egg(s), egg whites, and cream of tartar. Whisk them together until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to our cake.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake soft and fluffy! Just mix until everything is combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—every oven is slightly different!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Allowing them to cool completely is important for easy assembly later on.

Step 7: Prepare Strawberry Compote

While your cakes are cooling down, make your fresh strawberry compote. Simply cook down some strawberries with sugar until they’re soft and syrupy. This will add bursts of fruity goodness between those beautiful layers!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Now comes the fun part! Place one layer of cake on your serving platter. Spread a layer of strawberry compote followed by a generous layer of vanilla buttercream frosting. Repeat with remaining layers until all are stacked high.

Step 9: Final Frosting Touches

Use any leftover buttercream frosting to cover the top and sides of your cake smoothly. Feel free to get creative with decorations like fresh strawberries or sprinkles!

And there you have it—a stunning Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that’s sure to impress everyone at your gathering! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Baking is all about the little details, and these pro tips will ensure your cake turns out perfectly moist and delicious every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature helps them mix more easily, creating a smoother batter and resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined to keep that lovely light texture.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing the flour down, which can make your cake heavy.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This ensures you don’t overbake, keeping your cake moist.

• Cool properly: Allow your cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent them from drying out while still warm.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is as important as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this stunning dessert at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: A few slices or whole strawberries on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the strawberry flavor.

• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream complements the cake beautifully while keeping it dairy-free. Just whip up some chilled coconut cream until fluffy, adding a touch of vanilla for extra flavor.

• Vanilla Ice Cream Alternative: Serve with dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience that’s perfect for warm days. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the moist cake.

• Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the cake, making it a fantastic accompaniment.

• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pairing this dessert with coffee or a cup of soothing herbal tea creates a comforting end to any meal, enhancing both flavors without overpowering them.

Enjoy creating this delightful treat and sharing it with loved ones! Remember, there’s nothing quite like homemade desserts that bring joy to gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep! You can make the components ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert whenever you please. Here’s how to store and preserve your cake for optimal freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each layer in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, which can last for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped layers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To freeze the buttercream, store it in an airtight container; it will also keep for about 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake layers overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• If you want a warm slice, microwave it on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Allow buttercream to come to room temperature before re-whipping if frozen.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert!

Can I make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

How long does the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling stay fresh?

When stored properly, this cake stays fresh at room temperature for about 3 days and can be refrigerated for up to a week.

What can I use instead of almond extract in the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

You can use additional vanilla extract or even a splash of coconut extract for a different flavor profile while keeping it nut-free.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Absolutely! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before making your strawberry compote.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to celebrate life’s sweet moments. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!