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Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Strawberry Vanilla Cake

Paul, AI Chef
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, European fusion
Servings 10 slices
Calories 370 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Vanilla Cake Layers

  • 2 ½ cups 310g all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup 170g unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¾ cups 350g granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup 240ml whole milk, room temperature
  • For the Strawberry Filling Compote
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
  • ⅓ cup 70g granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water optional, for thickening

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup 227g unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups 420g powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 –3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Decoration

  • Whole or halved fresh strawberries
  • Mint leaves
  • Sprinkles or white chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

Mixing Techniques for a Fluffy Texture

  • Don’t overmix once the flour is added! Overworking the batter develops gluten and makes the cake dense. Fold gently with a spatula to keep that light, airy feel.

Baking the Cake Perfectly

  • Pour batter into greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips to Prevent Overbaking

  • Start checking your cake 5 minutes before the timer goes off. Use light-colored pans and rotate them halfway through for even baking.

Making the Strawberry Compote Filling

  • Chop fresh strawberries and simmer with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until thickened. Let it cool completely — it should be jammy, not runny.

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

  • Whip unsalted butter until light, then gradually add powdered sugar, a splash of cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

  • Too thick? Add more cream. Too runny? Add more powdered sugar. Aim for spreadable but firm peaks.

Decoration Ideas

    Elegant Presentation for Special Occasions

    • Pipe rosettes with a star tip
    • Add whole or halved strawberries on top
    • Use gold foil or edible flowers for a luxe look

    Minimalist Styles for Everyday Enjoyment

    • Dust with powdered sugar
    • Smear buttercream in semi-naked layers
    • Top with a few fresh berries and mint leaves

    Notes

    Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

    Nutrient Amount
    Calories 370 kcal
    Total Fat 18 g
    Saturated Fat 11 g
    Cholesterol 90 mg
    Sodium 160 mg
    Total Carbs 46 g
    Sugar 32 g
    Protein 4 g
    Fiber 1 g
    Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and exact measurements.