Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings smiles to faces, you’ve found it! This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. It’s a beautiful treat for family gatherings or even just a cozy night in. The combination of fluffy vanilla layers and sweet strawberry filling makes it a standout, no matter the occasion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike!

What I love most about this cake is its versatility. You can whip it up for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a sweet surprise during the week. Trust me, once you taste this cake, you’ll want to keep the recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: Each bite of this cake is soft and tender, thanks to the perfect blend of ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet vanilla flavor combined with fresh strawberries.
• Easy Prep: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the strawberry compote or cake layers in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it.
• Impressive Presentation: Layering the cake creates a stunning visual that will wow your guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this cake. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already!

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 Fillings

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

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is its flexibility! Here are a few fun ways to mix it up:

• Add Citrus Zest: Brighten up your cake by adding lemon or orange zest to the batter for an extra zing!
• Change Up the Fruit: Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries—each brings its own unique flavor!
• Experiment with Frosting: Try using cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla buttercream for a tangy twist.
• Create Mini Cakes: Use smaller pans to make individual cakes or cupcakes for fun party treats.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, gather all your ingredients so everything is ready when you need it. This makes baking smooth and enjoyable!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Instant Clearjel (or pudding mix), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your batter, which leads to a consistent texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, egg(s), and egg whites. Beat them together until smooth. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture into your dry ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until there are no dry spots left. This step is crucial because overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 5: Bake Your Cakes

Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Baking time may vary by oven; keep an eye on your cakes as they approach done-ness!

Step 6: Cool and Assemble

Once baked, let them cool in their pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once completely cool, layer on your strawberry compote between each cake layer and frost with vanilla buttercream on top and around the sides.

And there you have it—a stunning Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Creating the perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing eggs, butter, and buttermilk to reach room temperature ensures they blend together smoothly, resulting in a fluffier cake texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps prevent the cake from becoming dense. Gently folding in the ingredients retains the air bubbles formed during creaming, contributing to that light and airy quality.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing and results in a lighter cake.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary widely in temperature. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Letting your cake layers cool completely helps prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off, allowing for a beautifully decorated cake.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Presenting your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to make it shine at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: Adding whole or sliced fresh strawberries on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the strawberry filling perfectly.

• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free whipped cream adds a luxurious touch that pairs beautifully with strawberries and vanilla.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake, making for an enjoyable dessert experience.

• Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides a lovely contrast to the sweet vanilla cake, creating a balanced dessert platter.

• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea serves as a soothing accompaniment to your cake, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors over several days. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week, this cake stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Label with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Reheating

• To thaw, remove slices from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm slice, microwave for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat it.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious cake!

Can I use a different filling instead of strawberry?

Absolutely! While this recipe features strawberry filling, you can experiment with other fruit compotes like raspberry, blueberry, or even lemon curd for a delightful twist.

How do I make the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work well too; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before preparing the compote.

What makes this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling so special?

The combination of fluffy vanilla cake paired with fresh strawberry compote creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any celebration.

How can I enhance the flavor of my vanilla cake?

For added depth, consider using high-quality vanilla extract or infusing your batter with citrus zest. You can also add a splash of almond extract for a nutty undertone.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! It’s truly a wonderful dessert that brings smiles to faces and sweetness to any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking, tasting those delightful layers, and sharing it with loved ones. Happy baking!