Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, then this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or even a cozy weeknight treat. The fluffy vanilla cake layers paired with the fresh strawberry filling create a dreamy combination that feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: The steps are straightforward, making this cake perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the combination of vanilla and strawberries—it’s sure to please kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the components ahead of time, allowing for stress-free baking on special occasions.
• Versatile flavors: Feel free to experiment with different fillings and frostings to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together to create this amazing cake. You probably have many of these items in your pantry 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up, consider these fun variations:

• Change the fruit: Instead of strawberries, try using blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
• Add citrus zest: A little lemon or orange zest in the batter can brighten up the vanilla flavor beautifully.
• Experiment with extracts: Swap out some almond extract for lemon or coconut extract to give your cake a unique twist.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and letting them come to room temperature. This is crucial because room-temperature ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a lighter cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, Instant Clearjel (or pudding mix), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, egg(s), egg whites, and cream of tartar. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly creates a rich and flavorful batter.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Remember that lumps are okay; they’ll bake out as it cooks!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the batter between your prepared pans and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 6: Prepare Strawberry Compote

While your cakes are cooling, prepare your strawberry compote. Simply cook down fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar until they’re soft and syrupy. Let it cool before layering it between your cake layers.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once everything has cooled completely, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer on your serving plate, spread on some strawberry compote followed by a layer of buttercream frosting. Repeat for all layers and finish off by frosting the top and sides of your beautiful cake!

Enjoy every slice of this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling—it truly is a labor of love!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Baking can be truly rewarding, and with a few handy tips, you can take your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the gluten in the flour from developing too much, which keeps your cake tender and moist.

• Check your oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your baking environment is just right. An overly hot or cool oven can affect baking times and cake texture.

• Cool layers properly: Letting your cake layers cool completely before frosting will prevent the buttercream from melting and sliding off, resulting in a beautiful presentation.

• Chill your buttercream: If it gets too soft while frosting, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Chilled buttercream is easier to work with and pipes beautifully!

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Presenting this delightful cake is all about making it look as good as it tastes! Here are some ideas for serving that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Sliced or whole strawberries can add a pop of color and freshness on top of or around the cake.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only enhance visual appeal but also add a refreshing aroma that complements the strawberry filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the moist layers of cake, enhancing every bite.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free alternative provides a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the cake while adding a subtle coconut flavor.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake and make for a colorful presentation on your dessert table.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or tea alongside this dessert enhances the experience; their warm flavors complement the vanilla notes beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep and special occasions. You can make the cake layers, strawberry compote, and buttercream frosting in advance, saving you time on the day of your celebration.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best taste, consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If desired, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Serve warm with fresh strawberries or whipped topping for an extra treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dessert.

Can I use a different filling instead of strawberry?

Absolutely! While this recipe showcases a delightful strawberry filling, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings or even chocolate ganache.

How do I ensure my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Additionally, using ingredients like buttermilk and vegetable oil helps maintain moisture. Covering the cake once it has cooled will also help retain its softness.

Can I substitute almond extract in this recipe?

Yes! If you prefer not to use almond extract, simply replace it with additional vanilla extract for a pure vanilla flavor without any nutty undertones.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by combining 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt creation that brings people together. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just because, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every slice and share it with loved ones — happy baking!