Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Its soft, fluffy layers paired with fresh strawberry compote create an irresistible combination. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake will impress everyone. The creamy vanilla buttercream adds the final touch, making it an unforgettable dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist Texture: The combination of buttermilk and eggs ensures that each slice is soft and moist.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The homemade strawberry compote adds a burst of freshness that elevates the cake to new heights.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: This cake works beautifully for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Stunning Presentation: Multiple layers filled with vibrant strawberry compote make for an impressive display on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, you will need some essential tools that make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber scraper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a light batter.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
• Cake pans: Ensures even baking and helps achieve the desired layer height for stacking.

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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 and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
* All-purpose flour,
* Instant Clearjel (or white chocolate pudding mix),
* Baking powder,
* Baking soda,
* Salt.

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
* Buttermilk,
* Water,
* Vanilla extract,
* Almond extract,
* Apple cider vinegar.

Mix these ingredients until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
* Softened salted butter,
* Sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3–5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs Gradually

Add the whole egg and egg whites one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well after each addition until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides as needed. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Divide Batter and Bake

Evenly divide the batter into prepared cake pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare Fillings

While cakes cool, prepare your strawberry compote according to your preferred recipe. Also, whip up your vanilla buttercream frosting until creamy and fluffy.

Enjoy making this beautiful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling!

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet treat for yourself, presenting it beautifully makes all the difference.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on a plate for a classic dessert option.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with fresh strawberries and blueberries to enhance the flavor and add color.

A La Mode

• Top a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream.

Drizzled with Strawberry Sauce

• Pour some strawberry sauce over the top for an extra burst of berry goodness.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream alongside each slice to create a creamy pairing that complements the vanilla cake.

Tea or Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee to balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

To create the perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, follow these essential tips that will ensure your cake is fluffy and flavorful.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid developing gluten, which can make the cake dense instead of moist.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s temperature. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.

• Cool Layers Properly: Allow each layer to cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent melting your frosting and keeps layers intact.

• Choose Fresh Strawberries: For the filling, use ripe and fresh strawberries for maximum flavor in your compote.

• Store Correctly: Keep any leftover cake covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Pairing side dishes with your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavor profile.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt topped with granola creates a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cake.

3. Chocolate Mousse: The rich chocolate flavor offers a decadent touch alongside the light vanilla cake.

4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a tropical flair that complements the strawberry filling beautifully.

5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after indulging in sweet cake.

6. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti can be enjoyed alongside coffee or tea, creating a lovely pairing with each bite of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always bring your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature before baking. This ensures better blending and a fluffier texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing activates gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly. Too much flour or sugar can alter the cake’s moisture and flavor.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven fully before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and affect the cake’s rise.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting of the buttercream and helps maintain structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can last up to 5 days when properly stored.

Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place one slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes until desired warmth is achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This cake stands out due to its rich vanilla flavor complemented by fresh strawberry filling, creating a delightful balance of sweetness.

Can I use different fruits for filling?

Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute them with raspberries, blueberries, or even mixed berries for variety.

How do I ensure my cake stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, do not overbake it. Additionally, using ingredients like buttermilk adds moisture throughout the baking process.

Is there a vegan option for this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

Yes! You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter instead of regular butter for a vegan version.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Certainly! You can bake the layers in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to assemble.

Final Thoughts

The Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for any occasion, offering both flavor and visual appeal. Its versatility allows for various fillings and frostings, making it customizable to your taste. Try experimenting with different fruit fillings or frosting flavors to create your unique masterpiece!