Strawberry Cream Cake

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in small batches, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. Prepare the strawberries: While the cakes are baking, hull and slice the fresh strawberries. If you like, you can sprinkle the sliced strawberries with sugar to draw out their juices, or simply toss them with a teaspoon of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
2. Let them sit: Let the strawberries sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow their natural juices to develop. If you like, you can even refrigerate them for an hour to help them marinate.

Step 3: Make the Cream Frosting

1. Whip the cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting over the top.
2. Add the strawberry filling: Spoon the marinated strawberries (with their juice) on top of the whipped cream. Be sure to distribute them evenly.
3. Top with second layer: Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing down to ensure it sticks. Spread more whipped cream frosting on the top and around the sides of the cake.
4. Decorate the cake: Finish by decorating the top of the cake with additional fresh strawberries. You can arrange them in a decorative pattern or scatter them randomly for a more rustic look.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill the cake: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to slice.
2. Serve and enjoy: When ready to serve, slice the cake carefully and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and cake layers.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cream Cake

• Fresh, ripe strawberries are key to a flavorful filling. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute with frozen strawberries, though fresh will give the best texture and taste.
• Chill the whipped cream before whipping for best results. A cold bowl and beaters also help achieve the perfect consistency.
• Cake variation: You can also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract or lemon zest for a fun twist on flavor.
• Make it ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it ideal for busy occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This Strawberry Cream Cake is the ideal dessert for anyone who loves the combination of fruit and cream. The moist, airy cake layers provide the perfect base for the sweet, tangy strawberries and light, fluffy whipped cream frosting. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or a special celebration, this cake is sure to impress.

Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a standout centerpiece on any dessert table. Plus, the fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor, while the creaminess of the frosting ties it all together. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can make a cake that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

So, why wait for a special occasion? Treat yourself and your loved ones to this Strawberry Cream Cake today!