Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Vanilla cake is a timeless dessert that has captured hearts with its simplicity, versatility, and delightful flavor. When paired with fresh strawberry frosting, this classic treat transforms into an irresistible delight, perfect for any occasion—from birthdays and anniversaries to casual weekend baking. The combination of the light, moist vanilla cake and the tangy, sweet strawberry frosting creates a balance of flavors that appeals to all ages.

This recipe is all about bringing freshness to the forefront. By incorporating real strawberries into the frosting, the natural sweetness and vibrant color enhance the dessert’s aesthetic and taste. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a dessert that not only tastes good but also looks stunning on the table.

Beyond the taste, making this cake is an enjoyable experience for bakers of all skill levels. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, it’s a recipe that encourages creativity and experimentation. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner trying your hand at homemade cakes, this guide will walk you through the steps to create a masterpiece that will leave your friends and family raving.

In this article, we’ll explore every detail of creating this delectable cake. We’ll cover the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, common mistakes to avoid, ingredient alternatives, and useful tips. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to whip up a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

The ingredients are the foundation of any successful recipe, and this vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting is no exception. Using high-quality, fresh components will ensure that your cake is flavorful and moist, with a frosting that truly showcases the natural beauty of strawberries. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need for both the cake and the frosting.

For the Vanilla Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

For the Fresh Strawberry Frosting:

• 1 cup (200g) fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for desired consistency)

Preparation

Creating the perfect vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting involves careful attention to detail. This step-by-step guide ensures that each layer of the process is seamless, resulting in a show-stopping dessert. Take your time, follow these instructions, and enjoy the baking experience.

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents lumps in your batter.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This process creates air pockets in the mixture, leading to a light cake texture.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
   Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with rich flavor.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so stop as soon as the batter is smooth.
6. Pour and Bake:
   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Strawberry Frosting:
   While the cakes cool, make the frosting. Begin by pureeing the fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Add the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
8. Assemble the Cake:
   Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of strawberry frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish or create decorative swirls.

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Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a cake might seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to subpar results. By being mindful of these mistakes, you’ll ensure your vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting turns out perfectly every time.

1. Skipping Ingredient Preparation:
   Always measure and prepare your ingredients before starting. Forgetting a crucial step, like softening butter or bringing eggs to room temperature, can affect the final texture.
2. Overmixing the Batter:
   Overmixing introduces too much air into the batter, resulting in a dense or rubbery cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, especially after adding the flour and milk.
3. Uneven Baking:
   Placing cake pans too close in the oven or not rotating them halfway through baking can cause uneven cooking. Ensure the pans are spaced apart and rotate them for even heat distribution.
4. Using Wet Strawberries for Frosting:
   Wet strawberries can add excess moisture to the frosting, making it runny. After pureeing, strain the strawberries if needed to remove excess liquid.
5. Skipping Cake Cooling:
   Frosting a warm cake is a recipe for disaster. The frosting will melt and slide off, ruining your cake’s appearance. Always let the cakes cool completely before assembly.

Ingredient Alternatives

Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand or need to make adjustments due to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Here are some alternatives you can use without compromising the quality of your vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting.

1. Flour Substitutes:
   If you’re out of all-purpose flour, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture. For a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix works well. Almond flour can also be used, but it will create a denser cake and require adjustments to the liquid ingredients.
2. Butter Alternatives:
   Replace unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version. Coconut oil can also be used, but it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
3. Milk Options:
   Instead of whole milk, try almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free cake. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
4. Egg Replacements:
   For an egg-free cake, use a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons of water per egg. Applesauce or mashed bananas can also be used as a substitute, but they may add a slight fruit flavor to the cake.
5. Strawberry Substitutes:
   If strawberries aren’t available, raspberries, blueberries, or even frozen strawberries can be used for the frosting. Thaw frozen berries and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.
6. Sugar Alternatives:
   For a lower-sugar cake, use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Adjust the amount based on the product’s sweetness level.

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Tips and Tricks

Creating a perfect vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting is as much about technique as it is about the ingredients. Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your baking and ensure your cake is a success.

1. Room Temperature Ingredients:
   Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk. This helps the ingredients blend smoothly and results in a more even cake texture.
2. Proper Measuring Techniques:
   For accurate measurements, use a kitchen scale for flour and sugar. If using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it with a knife to avoid packing it in, which can make the cake dense.
3. Don’t Rush the Frosting:
   Beat the butter thoroughly before adding powdered sugar for a light and fluffy frosting. If the frosting feels too soft, chill it for 10–15 minutes to firm up before applying it to the cake.
4. Decorating Ideas:
   To add an elegant touch, decorate the cake with sliced fresh strawberries or edible flowers. A drizzle of white chocolate over the frosting can also enhance the presentation.
5. Enhance the Flavor:
   Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty undertone. For the frosting, a squeeze of lemon juice can amplify the strawberry flavor.
6. Storage Tips:
   Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Suggestions

Vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of occasions and preferences. Here are some suggestions to inspire you:

1. Layer Variations:
   Turn this cake into a multi-layer masterpiece for special events. Add extra layers with more frosting in between to create a tall, elegant cake.
2. Cupcake Option:
   Transform the recipe into cupcakes for individual servings. Bake the batter in a muffin tin lined with cupcake wrappers, reducing the baking time to 18–22 minutes.
3. Seasonal Touches:
   For a holiday twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. Pair the frosting with a hint of mint extract during the winter months.
4. Filling Ideas:
   Enhance the cake by adding a layer of filling between the cake layers. Fresh strawberry jam, whipped cream, or even chocolate ganache are excellent choices.
5. Pairing with Drinks:
   Serve this cake with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé for an adult gathering, or pair it with fresh strawberry milk for a kid-friendly treat.
6. Decorating for Themes:
   Use food coloring to tint the frosting for themed events. For example, pastel pink for a baby shower or bold red for a Valentine’s Day treat.

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FAQ

Baking often raises questions, especially for those new to the kitchen. Here are answers to some common questions about this vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting.

1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day of serving for maximum freshness.
2. What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
   You can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Thaw and drain them thoroughly before pureeing to avoid adding excess moisture to the frosting.
3. Why is my frosting too runny?
   This could be due to excess liquid in the strawberry puree or overly softened butter. Add more powdered sugar to thicken it, or chill the frosting briefly before applying it to the cake.
4. How can I ensure my cake is moist?
   Be careful not to overbake the cake. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
5. Can I freeze the cake?
   Yes, the unfrosted cake layers can be frozen. Wrap them in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting.

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Conclusion

Vanilla cake with fresh strawberry frosting is a delightful dessert that combines classic flavors with a modern twist. Its moist and tender layers paired with the vibrant, naturally sweet frosting make it a show-stopping centerpiece for any celebration. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe provides all the tools and tips you need to create a flawless cake.

By understanding the ingredients, avoiding common mistakes, and experimenting with suggestions and variations, you can make this dessert uniquely yours. The adaptability of this recipe ensures it fits every occasion, from casual family gatherings to formal events.

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