Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful treat perfect for any celebration. With its soft, fluffy layers and sweet strawberry compote, it’s sure to impress your guests. Whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just because, this cake stands out with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. The creamy vanilla buttercream adds an extra touch, making it a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist Texture: The combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil ensures each slice is tender and moist.
• Delicious Strawberry Filling: Fresh strawberry compote not only adds flavor but also vibrant color to the cake.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual gatherings; this cake fits any celebration.
• Easy to Follow Instructions: With simple steps to guide you, even novice bakers can successfully create this masterpiece.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or fillings to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when baking this cake, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Rubber Spatula
• 6-inch Round Cake Pans (or preferred size)
• Parchment Paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Makes mixing batter effortless and provides a consistent texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes allows for easy organization.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.
• Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well-combined.

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Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

• 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

How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Buttermilk
2. Water
3. Vanilla extract
4. Almond extract (or additional vanilla)
5. Apple cider vinegar

Stir these wet ingredients until they are blended smoothly.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your stand mixer bowl, beat together:
1. Salted butter
2. Sugar

Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add in:
1. Whole egg
2. Egg whites

Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the creamed mixture while alternating with wet ingredients. Start and end with dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth the tops before placing them in the oven.
Bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 8: Cool

Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Fill and Frost

Once cooled, layer your cakes with strawberry compote between each layer and frost with vanilla buttercream on top and around the sides as desired.

Enjoy your deliciously moist vanilla cake filled with strawberry goodness!

How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Serving your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this cake that will impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries complement the strawberry filling beautifully.
• Sliced Bananas: Add a tropical twist with sliced bananas for extra sweetness and texture.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on each slice enhances the cake’s flavor.
• Chocolate Whipped Cream: For chocolate lovers, chocolate whipped cream adds a rich touch.

Drizzle with Sauces

• Strawberry Sauce: A drizzle of fresh strawberry sauce around the plate enhances the theme and adds extra flavor.
• Chocolate Ganache: Pouring warm chocolate ganache over each slice can create a decadent contrast.

How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Achieving the perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out fantastic.

• Boldly measure ingredients: Accurate measurement is crucial for a moist cake. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Boldly room-temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Boldly avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough layers.
• Boldly check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached when done.
• Boldly cool completely: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain shape.

Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Pairing side dishes with your Moist Vanilla Cake can enhance your dessert table. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream complements the vanilla flavors in the cake.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit make for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the cake’s richness.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers a luxurious companion for those who love chocolate and vanilla together.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars add texture and can be served as a fun snack alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can prevent your batter from becoming fluffy. Always allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and airy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly to ensure you have the right proportions.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
• Not Allowing the Cake to Cool Properly: Removing the cake from the pan too soon can cause it to break apart. Let it cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them to avoid sticking.

Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for best results.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to the Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before making your compote.

How do I make my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them. Assemble when ready to serve.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

This usually happens due to underbaking or too much liquid. Ensure you follow baking times closely and check doneness with a toothpick.

How long will the strawberry filling last?

The strawberry compote lasts about one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or flavors according to your preference. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply as a sweet treat at home. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!