Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings smiles and joy to the table, this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is just the ticket! This cake has been a cherished recipe in my home for years. It’s soft, fluffy, and filled with delicious strawberry compote that adds a burst of fresh flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet on a busy weeknight, this cake fits all occasions perfectly.

What makes this recipe truly special is not just its taste but the memories created around it. Baking together with loved ones while the aroma wafts through the kitchen is what makes this cake so dear to my heart. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this cake without any fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or a cozy night in, this cake is always a hit.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet strawberry filling paired with moist vanilla layers.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake ahead of time and store; it tastes even better after resting!
• Customizable Options: Feel free to play around with flavors or fillings to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will be a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to create this lovely 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 Filling and Frosting

• 1 x batch prepared Strawberry Compote
• 1 x batch prepared Vanilla Bakery Buttercream Frosting

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider when making your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest in the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Swap the Berries: Try raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity flavor.
• Change Up the Frosting: Use chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, Instant Clearjel (or pudding mix), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended. This step is important because it ensures even rising and texture throughout your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, softened butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, whole egg(s), egg whites, and cream of tartar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well incorporated. This creates that wonderful moist texture we all love!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients while continuing to mix on low speed. Stop once everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cake layers.

Step 5: Bake Your Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake 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 as every oven can be different!

Step 6: Cool and Assemble

Once baked, let your cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, layer your cakes by spreading strawberry compote between each layer followed by generous dollops of vanilla buttercream frosting on top.

And there you have it! A beautiful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing helps create a smooth batter that traps air better, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined prevents the gluten from developing too much. This keeps your cake tender and moist instead of dense and chewy.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in accuracy, so using an oven thermometer ensures you’re baking at the right temperature. A properly baked cake is key to achieving that perfect rise and texture.

• Cool Cakes Completely: Allowing the layers to cool fully before frosting prevents melting and sliding. This step is crucial for maintaining sharp edges and a beautiful presentation.

• Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe features vanilla and strawberry, feel free to get creative! Adding citrus zest or other fruit purees can give your cake an exciting twist.

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Presenting this delicious cake is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Strawberries: A few whole strawberries on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the strawberry flavor.
• Mint Leaves: Bright green mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing note that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the moist cake, adding extra richness and a delightful contrast in temperature.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a light and fluffy topping, whipped coconut cream offers a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• Berry Salad: A mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries tossed together makes for a light side dish that balances the sweetness of the cake.

• Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich vanilla and strawberry flavors while cleansing the palate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling will be both visually stunning and incredibly delicious! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is perfect for meal prep and special occasions. You can make the components ahead of time, making it easy to whip up a delicious dessert when needed.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If refrigerating, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to a week.
• Keep any leftover strawberry compote and frosting in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Freeze the strawberry compote in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months as well.
• For the buttercream frosting, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months; just give it a good stir after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake layers overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• For the strawberry compote, reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warm, or microwave it for about 30 seconds.
• Allow refrigerated buttercream to come to room temperature before using; whip it again if needed to restore its fluffy texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious cake!

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries in this vanilla cake?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of your compote accordingly.

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

To keep your cake moist, be careful not to overbake it. Using ingredients like buttermilk and oil also helps retain moisture. Additionally, storing it properly as mentioned will help maintain its texture.

Can I make this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling gluten-free?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What should I do if my buttercream frosting is too thick?

If your buttercream is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Mix well after each addition.

How long does this cake last after baking?

When stored properly, your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling will last up to 2 days at room temperature or about a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful treat that combines the rich flavors of vanilla with fresh strawberries, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures or ask any questions along the way—I’m here cheering you on every step of the way!