Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful treat that combines soft, fluffy cake layers with a fresh strawberry compote. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration, this cake stands out with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Its moist texture makes it a favorite among cake lovers, ensuring it will be the centerpiece of your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist Texture: This cake stays soft and tender thanks to the buttermilk and careful baking techniques.
• Fresh Strawberry Filling: The homemade strawberry compote adds a burst of fruity flavor that complements the vanilla perfectly.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill.
• Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a bakery-style cake right from your kitchen.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to tweak the extracts or fillings to make this cake your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving that perfect bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cake pans (6 or 8 as per your choice)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your batter is mixed thoroughly, resulting in light and airy cake layers.
• Cake pans: Choosing the right size allows for even baking and proper layering of your cake.

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Ingredients

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 Strawberry Compote

• 1 x batch prepared Strawberry Compote

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 1 x batch prepared Vanilla Bakery Buttercream Frosting

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your chosen cake pans to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Instant Clearjel or pudding mix
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Whisk together until evenly blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. Buttermilk
2. Water
3. Vanilla extract
4. Almond extract
5. Apple cider vinegar

Stir well until combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature salted butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add in the whole egg and egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the butter mix while alternating with wet ingredients:
– Start by adding one-third of dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
– Follow with half of the wet ingredients; mix again.
– Repeat this process until all ingredients are combined without overmixing.

Step 7: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before removing from pans.

Step 8: Prepare Strawberry Compote

While cakes are cooling, prepare your strawberry compote according to your recipe.

Step 9: Frosting

Once cooled, layer your cakes with strawberry compote in between each layer and cover with vanilla buttercream frosting.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling!

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is all about presentation and flavor pairing. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tasty dessert that will elevate your serving game.

Classic Slice

• Serve a classic slice of cake on its own to let the moist texture and strawberry filling shine.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with a handful of fresh strawberries or mixed berries for added freshness and color.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair a slice with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the cake’s flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cake for an indulgent twist that complements the vanilla nicely.

Layered with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and an elegant touch.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance the sweetness of the cake with a warm beverage.

How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Perfecting your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can take your baking skills to the next level. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your dairy and eggs are at room temperature to achieve better mixing and a fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to dense layers.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature, as an oven that’s too hot can dry out the cake.
• Cool Properly: Let the cake layers cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks; this prevents sogginess.
• Level Your Layers: Trim any domed tops off your cake layers for even stacking and easier frosting application.
• Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain moisture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Complementing your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling with delightful side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized treats offer a creamy contrast, perfect for those who love rich flavors.
3. Vanilla Pudding Cups: Silky vanilla pudding pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall dessert theme.
4. Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch provides a nice textural contrast against the soft cake.
5. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of your cake.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars add chewiness and nutty flavor, making them great companions to the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Overmixing the batter: This can cause gluten development, resulting in a tough texture. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Using old baking powder or soda: Expired leavening agents will prevent your cake from rising properly. Always check expiration dates for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-6 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This cake features soft layers filled with fresh strawberry compote and topped with creamy vanilla buttercream, making it both delicious and visually appealing.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! You can use other fruits like blueberries or raspberries in place of strawberries to create your own unique flavor combinations.

How do I ensure my cake is moist?

Make sure not to overbake your cake and use fresh ingredients. Adding buttermilk also helps keep the moisture locked in.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as an alternative.

How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different fillings or frostings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert!