Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a cake that brings smiles to faces and joy to gatherings, look no further! This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a true showstopper. Not only does it have layers of fluffy vanilla goodness, but the sweet strawberry filling adds a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to please everyone.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can create a bakery-quality dessert right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself on a busy weeknight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: Each bite of this cake melts in your mouth thanks to the careful balance of ingredients and baking technique.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze even for beginners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of vanilla and fresh strawberries—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the layers and fillings in advance and assemble just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Customizable Flavors: Enjoy the flexibility to add your own twist with different fillings or decorations!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this cake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your delicious Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

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 based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Citrus Zest: Brighten up the flavor by adding some lemon or orange zest to your cake batter for a refreshing twist.
• Swap the Berries: Use blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Change Up the Frosting: Try making chocolate buttercream instead of vanilla for an indulgent variation.
• Create a Layered Surprise: Add another filling layer between each cake layer—think whipped cream or flavored custard!

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

To start off on the right foot, gather all your ingredients and make sure they are at room temperature. This helps everything mix together smoothly, leading to that dreamy texture we want in our cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and Clearjel (or pudding mix). Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, butter, vegetable oil, corn syrup, eggs, egg whites, and cream of tartar. Mix until smooth. These wet ingredients add moisture and flavor—essential for achieving that moistness we love!

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; otherwise, your cake may turn out dense instead of fluffy.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake Layers

Preheat your oven according to instructions and pour the batter into prepared pans. Bake until golden brown and springy to touch. Baking time may vary depending on your oven—be sure to check with a toothpick!

Step 6: Cool and Assemble

Once baked and cooled completely on wire racks, level your cakes if needed. Spread an even layer of strawberry compote between each layer followed by frosting before stacking them up.

And there you have it! A stunning Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that’s perfect for sharing—and I know you’ll enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Creating the perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking success!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature allows them to blend more easily, creating a smoother batter that results in a fluffier cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding your ingredients until just combined is key. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light and airy cake we’re aiming for.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake layers to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting off. This step ensures that your cake will hold its shape beautifully.
• Chill the strawberry compote: Using chilled compote makes it easier to spread between the layers without making the cake soggy, keeping each slice perfectly intact.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be as fun as baking it! Here are some delightful ways to present this scrumptious dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Placing sliced fresh strawberries on top of your frosted cake not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the fruity flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up every slice.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This light and airy topping brings a lovely creaminess that complements the flavors of the vanilla and strawberry beautifully.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a vibrant contrast and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds extra richness and makes every bite feel indulgent.
• Lemon sorbet: For a lighter option, lemon sorbet offers a refreshing tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, making for a delightful combination.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully without losing its delightful flavor and texture. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator where it can last up to a week.
• To maintain moisture, cover the cake layers with plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds on medium power.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may help you with your baking journey!

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the compote in the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well; just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking them down into compote.

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

This recipe combines soft vanilla layers, fresh strawberry filling, and creamy buttercream for a delightful treat that pleases any crowd.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling as special as I do! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon. Enjoy making this deliciously moist cake, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy baking!