Name: Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: PT-497890H52M50S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ pounds fresh strawberries (1,134 grams), washed, stemmed, and divided; 1 cup water (227 grams); 3 tablespoons cornstarch (21 grams); ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams); ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice (28 grams, from 1 lemon); Red food coloring (optional, if desired); 4 cups heavy whipping cream (908 grams, 1 quart); ¾ cup powdered sugar (85 grams), divided; 16 ounces cream cheese (454 grams, room temperature, 2 bricks); 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract (6 grams); ¾ teaspoon almond extract (3 grams); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 4 cups bleached cake flour (454 grams, 16 ounces, such as Swan's Down); 8 ounces unsalted butter (226 grams, 2 sticks, pliable but cool, about 65°F); ⅔ cup virgin coconut oil (113 grams, 4 ounces, solid but room temperature); 2¼ cups granulated sugar (454 grams, 16 ounces); 2½ teaspoons baking powder (10 grams); 1 teaspoon baking soda (6 grams); ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (use half if using table salt); 1 cup egg whites (241 grams, room temperature, about 8½ ounces, from about 8 large eggs); 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams); 1 teaspoon almond extract (4 grams); 2 cups cultured low-fat buttermilk (454 grams, 16 ounces, room temperature)

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If you have a soft spot for classic desserts that impress without fuss, the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe is your perfect match. This luscious cake brings together a tender vanilla crumb, a vibrant strawberry filling bursting with fresh flavor, and a cloud-like whipped cream frosting that’s both rich and refreshing. Whether it’s a celebration, a cozy afternoon treat, or just a way to brighten your day, this recipe shows how simple ingredients can transform into an extraordinary dessert that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You'll Need

A round dessert with three layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick, textured white base that looks creamy, topped with a bright red strawberry sauce layer that has a slightly uneven, glossy texture. On top, there is a fresh strawberry layer made of halved strawberries arranged neatly in a circular pattern with the cut sides facing up, showing their vivid red interior and seeds. The overall look is fresh and colorful, with a clear focus on the juicy strawberries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, moisture, and texture for your cake masterpiece. From the fresh strawberries infusing natural sweetness and color to the blend of butter and coconut oil creating a tender crumb, every element is essential.

Fresh strawberries (2½ pounds): The heart of the filling, providing sweetness and a natural, vibrant color.

Water (1 cup): Helps dissolve the cornstarch and cook the strawberries into a thickened filling.
Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Acts as a thickening agent for the luscious strawberry filling.
Granulated sugar (2¾ cups total): Sweetens both the filling and the cake layers perfectly.

Kosher salt (1 ⅜ teaspoons total): Enhances and balances all the flavors in the cake and frosting.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds brightness and accentuates the strawberry’s natural flavor.
Red food coloring (optional): For an extra rosy tint in the filling if desired.

Heavy whipping cream (4 cups): Whipped to create the light and fluffy frosting that crowns this cake.
Powdered sugar (¾ cup total): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream and cream cheese frosting.
Cream cheese (16 ounces): Adds creamy richness and tang to the frosting for a sophisticated balance.

Pure vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons): Infuses deep vanilla flavor throughout cake and frosting.
Almond extract (¾ teaspoon plus 1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle nutty note that complements the strawberries.
Bleached cake flour (4 cups): Ensures a fine crumb and tender texture for the cake.

Unsalted butter (8 ounces): Contributes to flavor and moistness while keeping the crumb light.
Virgin coconut oil (¾ cup): Adds a hint of tropical richness and helps keep the cake perfectly moist.
Baking powder (2½ teaspoons) and baking soda (1 teaspoon): Give the cake its rise and lovely crumb structure.

Egg whites (1 cup): Whipped into the batter for airiness and light texture.
Cultured low-fat buttermilk (2 cups): Brings tang and tenderness, activating the leavening agents for the fluffiest cake.

How to Make Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Start by capturing the fresh essence of strawberries. Rough-chop about 1½ pounds and halve the rest for topping. Whisk water and cornstarch smoothly in a saucepan, then add the strawberry chunks along with sugar and salt. Cooking this over medium heat while stirring and mashing gently creates a jammy, luscious filling that thickens beautifully. Finish with lemon juice and optional red coloring for an inviting hue. Let it cool completely in the refrigerator, which lets the flavors meld perfectly before assembly.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

This frosting is where richness meets lightness. Whip heavy cream with half of the powdered sugar until it forms stiff peaks, creating a fluffy base. Separately, beat cream cheese with the remaining powdered sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and salt until creamy and fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and airy. Refrigerate to keep it fresh and ready to spread your cake.

Step 3: Bake the Vanilla Cake Layers

Preheat your oven and prepare cake pans with parchment for an easy release. Start by sifting the flour and then creaming together butter, coconut oil, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until light and fluffy—a crucial step that ensures your cake is tender. Gradually add egg whites one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extracts. Alternate adding sifted flour and buttermilk slowly, mixing just until smooth to avoid overworking the batter. Bake until the cakes turn pale golden and pass the toothpick test - moist crumbs attached is perfect! Let them cool fully for best results.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting

If your frosting feels too firm, let it rest briefly to regain spreadability. Place one cake layer down, slather a generous layer of frosting, and build a small rim to hold in the strawberry filling. Spread a thick layer of that bright strawberry filling inside the frosting border, then continue layering cake, frosting, and filling until all layers are stacked. Finish by frosting the sides smoothly and crowning the top with halved strawberries for an irresistible presentation. Chill the cake so everything sets nicely before serving.

How to Serve Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

The image shows a white frosted two-layer cake on a white cake stand with decorative edges. The bottom layer is a light yellow sponge cake, topped with a layer of red strawberry jam mixed with a thin white cream layer. The second layer is the same yellow sponge cake, covered by a thick white frosting that also covers the entire cake outside. On top of the cake cover is a red strawberry jam layer with fresh whole strawberries carefully placed around the edge and one in the center. A slice of the cake is lifted on a silver spatula, held by a woman's hand, showing the inside layers clearly. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh halved strawberries arranged on top not only add eye-catching color but also bring an extra bite of freshness that perfectly complements the smooth whipped cream frosting. You can also dust the top lightly with powdered sugar or add a few mint leaves for a beautiful contrast and inviting aroma.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad or even a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, enhancing the dessert experience without overpowering the delicate flavors. A cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee also balances the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning look, slice the cake into neat layers on individual plates, layering extra strawberry filling between slices and topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry. For parties, consider serving mini versions or cupcakes using the same cake and filling but topped with piped whipped cream frosting for a delightful handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Store it in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to prevent the delicate frosting from drying out, ensuring that each slice remains moist and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cake layers separately by wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before assembling and frosting for best results. However, the whipped cream frosting is best fresh and generally doesn’t freeze well without losing its airy texture.

Reheating

Since this cake is served chilled, reheating is unnecessary. Instead, remove the cake from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to shine and the frosting to soften slightly for the perfect bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

While fresh strawberries yield the best texture and flavor for the filling, you can use frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery filling.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its signature flavor and texture. Substituting ingredients like coconut cream for frosting and plant-based buttery options can work, but the results will differ. If you need a dairy-free version, consider experimenting cautiously or searching specifically for vegan substitutes.

How long can I keep the assembled cake before it spoils?

Because of the fresh whipped cream frosting and strawberry filling, the cake is best enjoyed within 6 hours of assembly and should be kept refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and food safety.

Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The strawberry filling can be made up to 5 days ahead and kept refrigerated. Cake layers can be baked and wrapped up to 24 hours in advance, and the frosting can be prepared a day early as well. Just assemble the cake fresh for the best presentation.

What’s the best way to get even cake layers?

After baking and cooling, you can use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to trim any domed tops evenly. This creates even layers that stack beautifully, which is particularly helpful for multi-layer cakes like this one.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about bringing together simple, fresh ingredients to create the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe. From the moist vanilla layers to the fruity filling and cloud-like frosting, this cake transforms any occasion into a celebration of flavor and joy. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how effortlessly delightful homemade desserts can be!

Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need