Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling: How to Bake It in 6 Easy Steps

Introduction

Imagine biting into a fluffy vanilla cake layered with juicy, sweet strawberries and velvety frosting—no fancy bakery required! This vanilla cake with strawberry filling is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining simplicity with showstopping flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is your golden ticket.

Fun fact: Strawberries and vanilla have been a dynamic duo since the 18th century, when French chefs paired them to create decadent desserts for royalty. Today, you don’t need a royal budget or hours of prep to enjoy this classic combo. Unlike our popular chocolate fudge cake (which is rich but time-consuming), this recipe skips complicated steps and uses pantry staples. Ready in under 2 hours, it’s perfect for busy bakers and beginners alike.

So grab your mixing bowl—this cake is about to become your new go-to dessert!

What is Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?

Why is it called vanilla cake with strawberry filling? Is it because strawberries are nature’s candy, or because vanilla cake is basically a hug in dessert form? Let’s be real: the name says it all. This isn’t just a cake—it’s a celebration of two timeless flavors. Legend has it (or maybe just my grandma) that the secret to a happy home is a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible. As the old saying goes, “the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach,” and this cake? It’s a direct flight to love-at-first-bite territory.

But don’t take my word for it. Whip it up, and watch your kitchen turn into a strawberry-scented paradise.

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

1. It’s Easier Than You Think
   No fancy tools, no endless steps—just 6 straightforward stages to a moist, tender cake. Even if you’ve never baked a layer cake before, you’ll nail this.
2. Budget-Friendly Brilliance
   Store-bought versions cost a small fortune. For less than $15, you can make a cake that tastes and looks professional.
3. Flavor That Pops
   Fresh strawberries add a tangy-sweet punch, while real vanilla bean (or extract) gives the cake its warm, aromatic depth. Pair it with our lemon-blueberry cake for a fruity dessert duo!

Ready to bake smarter, not harder? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

Quick Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (includes cooling)
• Effort Level: Beginner-friendly
• Key Features: Moist layers, fresh strawberry filling, silky vanilla frosting.

Key Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Strawberry Filling
In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until thickened. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round pans.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
4. Alternate mixing in dry ingredients and milk. Divide batter into pans.
5. Bake 22-25 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Step 3: Make the Frosting
Beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream. Whip for 3-4 minutes until light and airy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer on a plate. Spread strawberry filling, then top with the second layer. Frost the entire cake.

What to Serve With Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling

• Coffee or Earl Grey tea: Balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla ice cream: For extra indulgence.
• Sparkling lemonade: A refreshing contrast.

Top Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

1. Don’t Overmix → Gluten = dense cake. Mix until just combined.
2. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients → Ensures smooth batter.
3. Chill the Filling → Prevents soggy layers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices tightly for 2 months. Thaw overnight.
• Reheat: Microwave slices for 10 seconds to revive the frosting’s silkiness.

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