Ingredients
For the vanilla cake:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
For the strawberry filling:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the vanilla frosting:
1 batch of strawberry vanilla frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 175°C. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Make the Vanilla Cake Batter – Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk (beginning and ending with the flour). Mix until just combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cake – Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven 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, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Strawberry Filling – While your cake layers are baking, in a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to release the juices. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to the strawberries in the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the heat and let it cool completely.
- Assemble the Cake—Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberry filling over the first layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the vanilla frosting. Decorate with whole strawberries and drizzle with any remaining frosting, if desired. Chill for about 45 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy – Slice and enjoy your delicious vanilla cake with strawberry filling! This delightful cake is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging yourself.
- Category: Cakes