Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

When the scent of a warm vanilla cake fills your kitchen, it evokes memories of celebrations and sweet moments shared with loved ones. This delightful Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling comes together in about an hour, offering a perfect balance of fluffy vanilla layers and luscious strawberry goodness. Simple techniques ensure a light texture, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion.

This cake is ideal for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply a delightful treat to brighten your day. You can make the strawberry filling a day ahead for even more convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This cake features a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Fresh strawberries create a vibrant, sweet filling that’s bursting with flavor.
• The simple ingredients come together easily, making this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for any celebration, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

What You’ll Need

You’ll need a selection of ingredients for this delightful cake.

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Filling

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ¼ cup sugar

Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable.

Substitutions & Swaps

• All-purpose flour can be replaced with gluten-free flour.
• Granulated sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar.
• Unsalted butter works well with margarine.
• Whole milk can be swapped for buttermilk for added flavor.

How to Make It

Create this delicious cake in easy steps.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two round cake pans.

Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Mix in the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture while alternating with the milk until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool completely before layering with the strawberry filling.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, for up to 2 months.
Reheat: 10 minutes in a 350°F oven.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure butter is softened for easier mixing.
• Let your eggs come to room temperature for better emulsification.
• Use ripe strawberries for the sweetest filling.
• Cool the cakes completely to prevent melting the filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with fresh mint for added freshness.
• Ideal for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries.