Strawberry Layer Cake

Strawberry Layer Cake

Introduction:

This Strawberry Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert perfect for celebrations and special occasions. Featuring layers of light, fluffy sponge cake filled with fresh strawberries and a creamy frosting, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Each bite offers the sweetness of strawberries balanced with a rich, smooth cream, making it a favorite for both strawberry lovers and cake aficionados.

Ingredients:

• For the cake:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
• For the filling:
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 3 tbsp sugar
• For the frosting:
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the garnish:
  • Whole strawberries
  • Crushed biscuits or graham crackers

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
   • In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
   • Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Stir just until combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake 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 out onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the strawberry filling:
   • Toss the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
3. Make the frosting:
   • In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with one-third of the frosting and half of the sliced strawberries.
   • Top with the second cake layer, another third of the frosting, and the remaining strawberries.
   • Place the final cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
   • Garnish with whole strawberries and sprinkle crushed biscuits or graham crackers around the edges.
5. Finishing touches:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the frosting to set.

Conclusion: This Strawberry Layer Cake is not just a dessert, it’s a centerpiece that brings a touch of elegance and lots of flavor to any table. The combination of moist sponge, fresh strawberries, and light, whipped cream makes it a delightful treat that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Enjoy baking and indulging in this exquisite Strawberry Layer Cake, a perfect blend of freshness and sweetness!