Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, you’ve come to the right place! This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling has become one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a family gathering where everyone deserves something sweet. The combination of soft, fluffy cake layers paired with fresh strawberry compote and creamy vanilla buttercream is simply irresistible. Trust me; this cake will bring smiles all around!

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an excellent choice for bakers of all levels. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: This cake stays wonderfully moist thanks to the buttermilk and oil, ensuring every bite is heavenly.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The homemade strawberry compote adds a burst of fruity goodness that perfectly complements the vanilla cake.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this cake in no time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a treat for yourself, this cake fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with flavors or fillings; this recipe is flexible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable for everyone. Here’s what you need to create your own 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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Swap the fruit: Use blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• Change the frosting: Try cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla buttercream for a tangy flavor.
• Add some zest: Incorporating lemon or orange zest into the batter can give your cake a refreshing citrus kick.
• Make it chocolatey: Substitute some of the flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate version of this delightful cake.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients so they are ready to go. This makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease your cake pans. Having everything organized helps ensure each step flows seamlessly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, Instant Clearjel or pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are well combined, which contributes to an even rise in your cake layers.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, softened butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, eggs, and egg whites together until smooth. It’s important that everything is at room temperature; this helps create a moist texture in your finished cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing since this can lead to a denser cake rather than the light fluffiness we want.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 6: Cool and Assemble

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, layer your cakes with strawberry compote and vanilla buttercream between them—this is where all that deliciousness comes together!

Now you’re ready to slice into your masterpiece! Enjoy every moment of sharing this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling with family and friends—it truly makes any occasion special!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Baking is an art, and with these tips, you’ll create a stunning and delicious cake that will impress everyone!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake texture.

• Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake as it develops the gluten in the flour.

• Check your oven temperature: An oven thermometer can ensure your oven is at the right temperature. Baking at the wrong temperature can cause your cake to rise unevenly or even collapse.

• Cool layers completely: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures that your frosting stays neat and beautiful.

• Chill the buttercream: If your vanilla buttercream becomes too soft while decorating, pop it into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. Chilled buttercream is easier to work with and holds its shape better.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Presenting your cake beautifully can make it feel extra special! Here are some serving ideas that will elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Place whole or sliced strawberries on top of each slice or around the cake for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only look beautiful but also add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch without overwhelming the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the moistness of the cake, enhancing its flavors while adding a delightful contrast in texture.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream brings a light, airy sweetness that complements the strawberry filling beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or tea: Serving slices of this moist vanilla cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on special occasions or busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a warm climate, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• To keep the frosting intact, place parchment paper between the layers if stacking.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze the cake layers for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze the strawberry compote and buttercream separately.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake layers overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Allow them to come to room temperature before frosting or serving.
• If needed, you can lightly reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different fruit for the filling instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! This moist vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with various fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just prepare a similar compote using your chosen fruit.

How do I ensure my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, avoid overbaking and store it properly as mentioned above. Incorporating buttermilk and oil in your batter also contributes to that lovely moisture!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. This will yield a similar texture while keeping it gluten-free.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply increase the amount of vanilla extract or omit it completely. The cake will still be delightful!

How long does it take to prepare this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

The total prep time is about 40 minutes, followed by a baking time of 28 minutes. It’s quick enough for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!