Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Name: Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Basic Cooking

I love baking, and this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is one of my all-time favorites! The combination of light, fluffy vanilla cake with sweet, succulent strawberries creates a perfect harmony that makes every bite a delight. I always enjoy how easy it is to whip up a delicious vanilla cake from scratch, and when filled with fresh strawberries, the flavors come alive. This cake is perfect for any occasion – from birthday parties to afternoon tea gatherings. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:53:37.610Z

When I decided to bake this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, I was on a mission to create something light and refreshing. The method of creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy really leads to that airy texture in the final cake. I also opted for fresh strawberries instead of a preserve to elevate the flavors and offer a surprise burst with each slice!

After experimenting with flavor profiles, I discovered that adding a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream really complements the strawberries and balances the sweetness beautifully. This cake has quickly become a family favorite, and I enjoy sharing the recipe with friends who are always impressed by its elegance and flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy vanilla cake with a delightful surprise of fresh strawberries
A hint of lemon zest in the cream adds a refreshing twist
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth

      

Mastering the Vanilla Cake

Achieving the perfect vanilla cake relies heavily on the creaming method. Start by ensuring your butter is softened to room temperature, which allows it to trap air effectively when creamed with sugar. This process creates a light texture in your cake. Beat the butter and sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This aeration is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.

Another key factor to consider is the mixing of the dry ingredients. When combining flour, baking powder, and salt, it’s essential to sift them together. Sifting not only helps to remove any lumps but also incorporates air into your dry ingredients, contributing to the cake's overall lightness. I recommend mixing in parts, alternating with your milk, to keep the batter smooth without overmixing.

Creating the Strawberry Filling

The strawberry filling is the heart of this cake, and its flavor can vary greatly based on the strawberries used. Fresh, ripe strawberries will yield the best results, bursting with sweetness and juiciness. If you find that your strawberries aren't sweet enough, feel free to increase the sugar slightly. Allowing them to sit for about 10 minutes helps the sugar dissolve and draws out their natural juices, creating a syrupy mixture that enhances the overall flavor.

For added depth, consider introducing a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries while macerating. This can enhance the sweetness and add a subtle tang, complementing the vanilla cake perfectly. Just a teaspoon can make a difference without overpowering the natural flavors.

Whipped Cream Perfection

When it comes to whipped cream, choosing the right cream is vital for achieving that perfect texture. Heavy whipping cream is ideal, as it contains a higher fat content that will whip up nicely into soft, stable peaks. Make sure to chill both the bowl and the cream beforehand; this ensures a quicker whipping process and better results. If you overwhip, you risk turning the cream into butter, so keep a close eye on it while beating.

For an added layer of flavor, the inclusion of lemon zest brightens the whipped cream, making it an excellent pairing with the rich vanilla and sweet strawberries. If you're short on lemon, a splash of vanilla extract can work as a substitute, elevating the flavor in a different but delightful way.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

For the Vanilla Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Zest of 1 lemon

Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create an exquisite Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Strawberry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon zest until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip!

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of strawberry filling on top, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Top with the second cake layer, and frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream. Garnish with additional strawberry slices if desired.

Now sit back and enjoy your homemade Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling!

Pro Tips

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results, and don’t skip the chilling time for your whipped cream to maintain its structure.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This vanilla cake with strawberry filling can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy schedules. You can bake the cake layers and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the layers for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them thaw completely before assembling the cake to ensure the cream stays stable and doesn’t become watery.

The strawberry filling can also be prepared in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find it too watery after storing, a quick simmer on low heat can help reduce the liquid slightly and concentrate the flavors again before using it in your cake.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe showcases strawberries, feel free to experiment with other fruits for the filling. Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches can provide a delightful twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar levels based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose. If using frozen fruit, thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in your filling.

Serving suggestions can elevate this cake experience even further. Consider pairing it with a light drizzle of chocolate ganache or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance the flavors of the cake. Fresh mint leaves can also serve as an appealing garnish, adding a pop of color and a refreshing hint that complements the richness of the filling and cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble them when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with a whipped topping, but the texture and flavor may vary.