Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy family dinners. This delightful cake features soft, fluffy layers complemented by a fresh strawberry filling and creamy vanilla buttercream. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: The combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil keeps the cake layers soft and tender.
• Deliciously Versatile: Perfect for celebrations, picnics, or just because—this cake fits every scenario.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, baking this cake is easy even for beginners.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The homemade strawberry compote adds a burst of fruity goodness that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Options: You can adapt flavors or fillings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process. Having everything ready will make creating your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (6” or 8”)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating ingredients, ensuring a light and airy batter.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in delicate components like egg whites without deflating them.

Ingredients

To make this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake Layers

• 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

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them lightly with butter or oil.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, Instant Clearjel (or pudding mix), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, eggs, egg whites, and cream of tartar. Beat these ingredients together using an electric mixer until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold them together until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven. Let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of strawberry compote on top followed by vanilla buttercream. Repeat this process with the second layer. Finish by adding the third layer on top and frosting the entire cake with remaining buttercream.

Enjoy every slice of your delicious Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling!

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can enhance its flavors and create a delightful experience for your guests. Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to complement the strawberry filling and add a burst of freshness.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on each slice adds a light and airy texture, making every bite even more indulgent.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce over the cake brings an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla and strawberry.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, perfect for warmer days.

Create a Layered Dessert

• Cut the cake into smaller pieces and layer them in dessert glasses with additional strawberry compote and whipped cream for an elegant presentation.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also provide a refreshing herbal note that balances the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

To achieve the best results when making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, follow these tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter that rises evenly during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cakes caused by too much flour.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cake layers.
• Cool Layers Completely: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean slices.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust flavor extracts based on personal preference. Almond extract adds depth, while vanilla keeps it classic.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Pairing your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be fun! Here are some delightful side dishes that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts nicely against the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone; their creamy textures balance out the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These not only match the cake’s flavor but add an elegant touch to your dessert table.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over slices for added richness that’ll delight any sweet tooth.
6. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and texture, making each bite interesting while enhancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when creating a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to an uneven batter. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the baking powder check: Old baking powder may not rise properly. Always check the expiration date before using it in your recipe.
• Ignoring cooling times: Cutting the cake too soon can lead to crumbling. Let it cool completely before slicing for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them and drain excess moisture before making the compote.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

What is the best way to frost this cake?

For an even finish, chill the cake layers before frosting. Apply a thin layer of frosting first (crumb coat) and then add your final layer.

Can I add other flavors to this vanilla cake?

Absolutely! You can incorporate lemon zest or almond extract for added flavor depth.

How do I store leftover strawberry compote?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruit fillings or flavors. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat perfect for any occasion!