Vanilla Strawberry Cake

Vanilla Strawberry Cake

9 servings
Vanilla strawberry cake is a single layer vanilla cake topped with a light cream cheese & whipping cream frosting and fresh sweet strawberries.

Ingredients

  • cake flour

    all-purpose will work also

    1 ¼ c
  • baking powder
    1 ½ tsp
  • baking soda
    ½ tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • butter

    room temperature

    ¼ c
  • granulated sugar
    ¾ c
  • neutral oil
    3 tbsp
  • eggs

    room temperature

    2 large
  • vanilla bean paste or extract
    2 tsp
  • sour cream

    room temperature

    ⅓ c
  • milk

    room temperature

    ½ c
  • powdered sugar
    ½ c
  • cream cheese

    room temperature

    4 oz
  • powdered sugar
    ½ c
  • heavy whipping cream
    1 c
  • vanilla bean paste or extract
    1 tsp
  • strawberries
    1 ½ c
  • a little sugar if needed to sweetend berries

Directions

To make the cake:

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325 F, and spray and line an 8 or 9 inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

  3. 3

    In a medium bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add oil and eggs and beat again for another 2 minutes. Mix in vanilla and sour cream.

  4. 4

    Add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, in three parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

  5. 5

    Pour the batter into prepared baking pan.

  6. 6

    Bake for about 28-33 minutes or until a light golden brown around the edges, and a toothpick comes out clean from the middle. Set aside to allow to cool.

To make the whipping cream frosting:

  1. 1

    In a small bowl, blend ½ cup powdered sugar with 4 oz of cream cheese until completely smooth.

  2. 2

    In a medium size bowl, whip heavy cream, vanilla and ½ cup powdered sugar together on high until stiff peaks form.

  3. 3

    Fold the two mixtures together until well blended.

Fruit topping:

  1. 1

    Cut strawberries and mix with a little sugar if needed to sweeten more.

Cake assembly:

  1. 1

    Frost cake with whipping cream frosting. Place strawberries on top before serving.

Vanilla Strawberry Cake

Vanilla Strawberry Cake

45 min9 servings448 cal

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About this Recipe

The Ultimate Vanilla Strawberry Cake: A Slice of Sweet Perfection

Indulge in a delightful dessert that perfectly balances classic flavors: our Vanilla Strawberry Cake. This isn't just any cake; it's a celebration of simplicity and fresh taste. Imagine a wonderfully moist, single-layer vanilla cake, crowned with an incredibly light and airy cream cheese and whipping cream frosting, then generously adorned with vibrant, sweet fresh strawberries. It’s the ideal treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

What makes this vanilla strawberry cake truly special is its harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The vanilla cake base is tender and fragrant, made with both vanilla bean paste and a touch of sour cream for an irresistible moistness. But the star, alongside those luscious berries, is the frosting. We combine smooth cream cheese with fluffy whip cream to create a topping that’s rich in flavor but light as air, providing a beautiful contrast to the sweet cake and the tartness of the strawberries.

Tips for a Perfect Vanilla Strawberry Cake

Achieving bakery-quality results at home is easier than you think!

  • For the best cake texture, ensure your butter, eggs, sour cream, and milk are all at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly, creating a smoother batter.
  • Don't overmix your cake batter! Mix until just combined to keep the vanilla cake tender and light.
  • When making the cream cheese frosting, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before gently folding it into the cream cheese mixture. This ensures that signature light and airy texture.
  • If your strawberries aren't super sweet, a light sprinkle of sugar before topping can enhance their flavor beautifully.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

While this vanilla strawberry cake is perfect as is, feel free to get creative!

  • Berry Swap: Try raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry medley for a different flavor profile.
  • Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter or the frosting for a bright, refreshing twist.
  • Chocolate Lover: Sprinkle some finely grated dark chocolate over the strawberries for a decadent touch.

This beautiful dessert is fantastic served after dinner, as a centerpiece for a brunch spread, or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Its fresh flavors make it especially delightful during spring and summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions