Berry Happy Together: Vanilla & Strawberry Layer Cake
If you’ve ever wanted to eat cake and feel like a fancy strawberry at the same time, you’re in the right place. This Vanilla & Strawberry Layer Cake is basically a strawberry’s dream come true—fluffy vanilla cake layers, a juicy strawberry filling, and enough strawberry frosting to make even a berry blush. I promise, no strawberries were harmed in the making of this recipe (except for the ones that volunteered as tribute). Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a summer picnic, or just a Tuesday that needed a little extra sweetness, this cake has your back. Grab your apron and let’s get berry serious about baking—because life is too short for boring cake!
Why this cake is amazing:
- Easy homemade vanilla cake with a delicious strawberry filling!
- Perfect for the sweetest summer strawberries.
- Great for parties, BBQs, birthdays, or as a treat for any strawberry lover in your life (including you!)
Vanilla & Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Filling
Servings:10-12 slices
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including cooling time)
Ingredients
Vanilla Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 can of Strawberry Frosting or Vanilla Frosting (tint with red food coloring for a pink color.)
Instructions
Make the Strawberry Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to release the juices.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add this mixture to the strawberries in the saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Make the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk (beginning and ending with the flour). Mix until just combined and smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top of the cake. Then spread a layer of strawberry filling over the frosting.
Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the strawberry frosting.
Decorate with whole strawberries on top and drizzle with any remaining frosting if desired.
Chill for about 45 min before serving.
Slice and enjoy!
FAQ
Can I use homemade strawberry frosting for this cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade strawberry frosting, or any other homemade frosting you love. Cream cheese and buttercream would be amazing too!
Can I make the vanilla cake layers ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the vanilla cake layers a day or two in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature, or freeze them for longer storage.
What’s the best way to add the strawberry filling between the layers?
Spread an even layer of strawberry filling on top of the first cake layer, leaving a small border to prevent it from spilling out when you add the next layer.
Can I use a different flavor of frosting if I can’t find strawberry?
Of course! Vanilla or cream cheese frosting would also taste great with this cake. You can even add a bit of strawberry jam to vanilla frosting for a quick DIY strawberry twist.
