Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling. This cake is not just any ordinary cake; it’s a delightful treat that combines soft, fluffy layers of vanilla cake with a luscious strawberry filling. The best part? It’s perfect for all occasions—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special celebration!

What makes this recipe extra special is the combination of flavors and textures. The moistness of the cake pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy strawberry compote, while the creamy vanilla buttercream frosting ties everything together in a heavenly way. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: The secret to this cake’s moisture lies in the unique blend of ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how fluffy and tender each slice is!
• Family-Friendly: This cake is sure to please everyone—from kids to grandparents. It’s a dessert that brings smiles all around.
• Easy to Make: With simple instructions and straightforward ingredients, baking this cake can be a fun activity for anyone, regardless of skill level.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a Tuesday night treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the strawberry compote and buttercream ahead of time, making assembly a breeze on the day you plan to serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will set you on your way to creating this stunning cake. Most of them are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes!

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! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Berries: Instead of strawberries, try using raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist.
• Change Up the Frosting: Use cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla buttercream for an extra tangy flavor.
• Make It Chocolate: Substitute some flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version of this moist vanilla cake.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the batter for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes baking so much easier! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and lining your cake pans will ensure that nothing sticks when it’s time to take out those beautiful layers.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, Clearjel or pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your batter, leading to an even rise in your cake layers.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), apple cider vinegar, sugar, softened butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, eggs, egg whites, and cream of tartar. Beat these together until creamy and smooth; this step adds air into your batter which contributes to its fluffiness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed. It’s important not to overmix here—just blend until combined! Overmixing can lead to dense cakes instead of light and airy ones.

Step 5: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread with strawberry compote followed by a layer of buttercream frostin`. Repeat with next layer before topping with the final layer of cake. Finish by frosting the top and sides with buttercream for that gorgeous bakery-style look!

With each step taken carefully and lovingly, you’ll create something truly special—a moist vanilla cake with strawberry filling that tastes as good as it looks! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Baking a cake can feel like a daunting task, but with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a show-stopping dessert!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a smoother batter and ensures the cake rises evenly.

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients not only removes lumps but also aerates them, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so keep it gentle!

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cake at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking and ensure it’s perfectly moist.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off, giving you that picture-perfect finish.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Presenting your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is all about enhancing its beauty and flavor! Here are some delightful ideas to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: Place whole or halved strawberries on top of your frosted cake for a vibrant and fresh look.
• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint add a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the strawberry filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free alternative that’s light yet indulgent, serve whipped coconut cream alongside each slice of cake.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cake and adds a burst of color to your dessert table.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the moistness of the cake and enhances its vanilla flavor.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering warm beverages like coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting accompaniment that rounds out your dessert experience beautifully.

Now you’re all set to bake this delightful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! Enjoy every slice and share it with those you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep this delicious cake fresh and delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them moist.
• Store the wrapped slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it can last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the entire cake, ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slice the cake before freezing, allowing you to take out only what you need.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen slices, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm slice, microwave on medium power for about 10 seconds or until warmed through. Enjoy the comforting aroma as it warms!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful cake!

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

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of salt to the batter for extra depth. Fresh strawberries in the filling will also enhance the freshness!

What type of butter should I use for the frosting?

Using unsalted butter allows you to control the sweetness better, but if you’re looking for added flavor, salted butter works wonderfully too.

Can I replace buttermilk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and sweetness. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every slice and feel free to share your creations or any variations you try—I’d love to hear about your baking adventures!