Introduction to Strawberry Vanilla Cake
If you're a young professional juggling a hectic schedule, the thought of baking might seem daunting. Enter the strawberry vanilla cake—the perfect remedy for your sweet tooth that won't complicate your life. This delightful dessert combines the classic flavors of vanilla with the freshness of juicy strawberries, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for any spring or summer gathering.
Why Strawberry Vanilla Cake is Perfect for Young Professionals
What makes this cake an ideal choice for busy individuals?
- Simplicity: The recipe is straightforward, breaking down into manageable steps that fit easily into your weekend routine.
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh strawberries not only elevates the flavor but also gives you that homemade touch which is often a conversation starter.
- Versatile Serving: Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or celebrating a birthday, this cake is versatile enough to suit various occasions.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare parts in advance, like the macerated strawberries or cake layers, ensuring you aren't overwhelmed when it’s time to assemble.
So grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious strawberry vanilla cake! For a detailed recipe, check out Flouring Kitchen’s guide.
Ingredients for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
When it comes to baking a delightful strawberry vanilla cake, sourcing your ingredients is key. Here’s a friendly guide to help you gather everything you need to create a cake that's sure to impress!
Macerated Strawberry Cake Filling
For the luscious strawberry filling, you'll need:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries (about 1 lb or 454 g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Macerating the strawberries enhances their sweetness and flavor, making them a perfect cake companion.
Vanilla Chiffon Cake Layers
Creating the light chiffon layers requires:
- 7 large eggs, separated
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup olive or vegetable oil
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
These airy layers provide a delightful base that's both flavorful and fluffy, soaking up the strawberry syrup beautifully.
Whipped Yogurt Frosting
For the dreamy frosting, gather:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt, cold
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
This unique frosting adds a creamy and slightly tangy finish, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries and cake layers.
Equipped with these ingredients, you're ready to bake a strawberry vanilla cake that will surely win hearts at your next gathering! Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Are you ready to dive into the delightful world of baking with this strawberry vanilla cake? This cake is pure happiness on a plate, and I'm here to guide you through each intricate step with ease and joy!
Macerate the Strawberries
Macerating the strawberries is a crucial first step to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice and Mix: Trim the green tops off about 4 cups of fresh strawberries and slice them into quarters or thicker slices, depending on your preference. For maceration, you don't want them too small.
- Add Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sprinkle ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt over the strawberries. Combine gently to ensure all the berries get coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and let the strawberries sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This step draws out the juices and creates a luscious syrup that will seep into your strawberry vanilla cake layers.
Prepare the Vanilla Chiffon Cake Layers
With the strawberries getting all juicy and flavorful, it’s time to prepare the cake layers:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 355°F (180°C) and line three 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper. It’s essential not to grease the sides to help the cake rise properly.
- Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to whip 7 large egg whites and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add ½ cup of sugar while whisking until you reach stiff peaks.
- Beat Egg Yolks: In another bowl, beat the 7 egg yolks with the remaining sugar and gradually incorporate ½ cup of olive oil, ½ cup of milk, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
- Combine: Sift in 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Gently fold in the whipped egg whites, avoiding deflation, until everything is just combined.
- Bake: Distribute the batter equally among the pans and bake for 15-18 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Whip the Yogurt Frosting
Now, let’s make the frosting that’s going to hold this strawberry vanilla cake masterpiece together:
- Whip Cream: In a bowl, add 2 cups of heavy whipping cream and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Whip until medium peaks form.
- Add Yogurt: Carefully fold in 2 cups of cold plain Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt. Whip until thick, being careful not to over-whip!
Assemble the Cake
Here comes the fun part!
- First Layer: Start with a dollop of frosting on your cake stand to help the first layer stick. Place the first cake layer down, pipe a ring of frosting around it, and fill it with the macerated strawberries, drizzling a bit of syrup on top.
- Repeat: Place the next cake layer on top and repeat the frosting and strawberry filling process. Finish with the final layer flipped upside down to keep the top nice and flat.
Final Touches
- Frost the Cake: Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting using a spatula for a smooth finish. For added texture, consider using a cake comb.
- Chill: Pop the cake in the freezer for about 15 minutes to set the frosting before serving. Decorate with fresh strawberries on top and any leftover macerated strawberries on the side.
This strawberry vanilla cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a joy to share. As you dig into this delicious cake, savor each bite and enjoy the love that has gone into each step! Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Add a Layer of Chocolate Ganache
For chocolate lovers, adding a layer of rich chocolate ganache elevates the classic strawberry vanilla cake to a decadent treat. Simply melt equal parts heavy cream and semi-sweet chocolate until smooth, then pour it over the cake before adding fresh strawberries on top. The combination of velvety chocolate and juicy strawberries creates an unforgettable flavor twist that’s perfect for celebrations.
Experiment with Different Fruits
You can easily customize your strawberry vanilla cake by experimenting with various fruits. Consider incorporating tender raspberries, sweet peaches, or zesty lemon curd for a refreshing change. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile, allowing you to adapt the recipe for any season or occasion. The versatility of this cake keeps it fresh and exciting every time you bake!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Proper Egg Separations
For a fluffy strawberry vanilla cake, ensuring your egg whites and yolks are perfectly separated is crucial. Use clean, dry bowls for each, as even a hint of yolk in the whites can prevent them from whipping to the desired stiff peaks. Consider using eggs at room temperature; they whip up better, making your cake light and airy.
Cooling Cake Layers Upside Down
Once your cake layers are baked, flip them upside down to cool on a wire rack or even directly in the pan. This method helps maintain their structure and prevents them from collapsing as they set. Trust me; your chiffon cake will thank you for it!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Garnish with Fresh Strawberries
For a beautiful presentation, top your strawberry vanilla cake with a generous layer of fresh strawberries. You can slice them for an elegant look, or use whole berries for a playful touch. Drizzling some of the macerated strawberry syrup over the top adds extra flavor and keeps your cake looking vibrant and inviting. Not only does this enhance the aesthetics, but it also intensifies the strawberry essence that pairs perfectly with the fluffy vanilla layers.
Pair with a Refreshing Beverage
To elevate your dessert experience, consider serving your strawberry vanilla cake with a refreshing beverage. A chilled glass of lemon-infused iced tea or a sparkling fruit punch compliments the cake’s flavors beautifully. If you're looking for something lighter, a simple herbal iced tea can refresh your palate after each delightful bite.
For more beverage pairing ideas, check out this guide on flavorful non-alcoholic drink combinations. Happy indulging!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Preparation Time
Preparing the strawberry vanilla cake is a delightful journey that takes about 45 minutes. This includes macerating the strawberries and whipping up the cake batter to fluffy perfection.
Baking Time
Once you're ready to bake, pop those layers into the oven for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake.
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, making this cake a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!
This breakdown allows you to manage your time effectively, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Plus, you can always check more about recipe timings at The Joy of Cooking for similar projects. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Calories
Each slice of this delightful strawberry vanilla cake packs around 443 calories. It’s just the right amount to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard!
Protein
You’ll get about 8 grams of protein per slice, thanks largely to the eggs and yogurt. This makes it a delicious option that's a bit more substantial than your typical dessert.
Sugar
With approximately 42 grams of sugar, this cake balances sweetness with the tartness of fresh strawberries, making it a treat that's truly memorable. Enjoy in moderation!
For more healthy dessert options, check out Healthline's guide on sugar intake to find the right balance for your diet.
FAQs about Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the individual components of your strawberry vanilla cake in advance. Bake the cake layers one or two days ahead and store them wrapped in the fridge. The macerated strawberries can also be made 30 minutes to 8 hours ahead—just keep them chilled. However, for the best results, assemble the cake the day you're serving it, as the fresh strawberries are best enjoyed on the same day.
How do I store leftover cake?
To keep your leftover cake fresh, store it in a cake carrier or tightly covered in plastic wrap in the fridge. It should stay delicious for 3-4 days. Always serve the cake cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Be sure to add any remaining macerated strawberries for extra sweetness!
What's the best way to achieve a fluffy texture?
To achieve that dreamy, fluffy texture in your strawberry vanilla cake, ensure you gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in stages. This method prevents deflation and helps keep the cake airy. Also, flipping the cake layers upside down immediately after baking prevents them from sinking and losing volume. For more tips on baking techniques, check out Baking Basics.
Conclusion on Strawberry Vanilla Cake
In conclusion, this strawberry vanilla cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer. With its light chiffon layers, juicy strawberries, and luscious yogurt frosting, it's a showstopper at any gathering. Try making it for your next celebration or simply to enjoy at home!
Strawberry Vanilla Cake
Equipment
- electric mixer
- 3 eight inch round baking pans
Ingredients
Macerated Strawberry Cake Filling
- 4 cups fresh strawberries about 1 lb or 454 g
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Vanilla Chiffon Cake Layers
- 7 large eggs separated, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour 150g
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Whipped Yogurt Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream 35%, cold
- 1 cup powdered sugar add more to taste for sweeter frosting
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt cold
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Macerated Strawberry Filling
- Start with macerating the strawberries: Trim the tops off the strawberries and cut them into slices or quarters.
- Pour sugar, lemon juice, and salt over the macerated strawberries. Toss them gently to coat.
- Cover and place them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Vanilla Chiffon Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C) and line the bottoms of three 8" round baking pans.
- Whisk egg whites and cream of tartar to soft peaks.
- Gradually add half of the sugar to the egg whites, whisking until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, beat egg yolks with the remaining sugar until lightened.
- Add oil, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the egg yolks.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and cornstarch into the yolk mixture and fold.
- Gently fold in the egg whites in stages.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the layers upside down.
Whipped Yogurt Frosting
- Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar to medium peaks.
- Add yogurt, salt, and vanilla extract, and whip until thick.
Assembly
- Pipe frosting on a plate, place the first cake layer, and pipe frosting around the edges.
- Fill with macerated strawberries and drizzle some syrup on top.
- Add frosting on top of the strawberries and repeat with remaining layers.
- Cover the cake with the remaining frosting and smooth it out.
- Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving.
- Before serving, add fresh strawberries and drizzle syrup over the top.
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