Name: Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 9 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3½ cups cake flour (420g); 2 cups granulated sugar (400g); 2 tablespoons powdered milk (10g); 4 teaspoons baking powder (16g); 1 teaspoon salt (7g); 1 cup unsalted butter (227g, room temperature, very soft); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 4 large egg whites (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk (240mL, room temperature); 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste; ⅓ cup vanilla simple syrup; 10 ounces frozen strawberries; ½ cup granulated sugar (100g); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (18g); 1.2 ounces freeze-dried strawberries; 1 cup unsalted butter (227g, room temperature); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; ¾ teaspoon salt; 4 cups powdered sugar (480g); ¾ cup heavy cream (180mL)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 86 reviews

If you’re looking to impress everyone at your next gathering or simply treat yourself to something utterly divine, this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Combining a tender, moist vanilla cake with the sweet and tangy burst of fresh strawberry filling, topped with luscious strawberry-infused frosting, every bite feels like a celebration of springtime flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just eager to try something new, this recipe is lovingly crafted to bring joy and sweetness in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two round vanilla cake layers; the top one has a light golden brown color with a soft textured pattern on top, and the bottom one is lighter and smooth. Next to the cakes are two small white bowls: one bowl contains thick, creamy white cream cheese frosting with a swirled texture, and the other holds vibrant red strawberry filling with visible pieces of strawberries and a silver spoon resting inside. Both bowls and cakes are placed on a flat white marbled surface with a small wooden spatula nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe lies in its carefully chosen yet simple ingredients. Each element adds a layer of flavor or texture that brings the entire cake to life, from the soft crumb of the cake to the vibrant strawberry filling and smooth frosting that crowns it.

3½ cups cake flour: Provides a tender and fine crumb, essential for a light yet sturdy cake.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with moistness.
2 tablespoons powdered milk: Enhances richness and adds a subtle dairy flavor.
4 teaspoons baking powder: Leavens the batter, making the cake fluffy and airy.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Key for moisture, tenderness, and the buttery taste.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
4 large egg whites: Contribute to the lightness and stability of the cake.
1 cup whole milk (room temperature): Keeps the cake moist and smooth in texture.
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste: Delivers rich, natural vanilla flavor.
⅓ cup vanilla simple syrup: Adds moisture and extra vanilla sweetness after baking.
10 ounces frozen strawberries: For a fresh, vibrant filling bursting with flavor.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances strawberry tartness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and intensifies fruitiness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling to hold perfectly between cake layers.
1.2 ounces freeze-dried strawberries: Powdered for concentrated strawberry flavor in the frosting.
1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Creates the smooth, rich base for the frosting.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the frosting.
¾ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadability.
¾ cup heavy cream: Adds a creamy texture and lightens the frosting.

How to Make Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and prepping two 9-inch cake pans with grease and parchment paper. Combining the dry ingredients like cake flour, sugar, powdered milk, baking powder, and salt in a mixer creates the foundation for your cake’s texture and rise. Incorporating room temperature butter gives it tenderness, while carefully adding eggs and whites one at a time ensures fluffiness and structure. Vanilla bean paste infuses that classic aroma, and adding milk gradually results in an irresistibly smooth batter ready to bake.

Step 2: Bake and Syrup Soak

Divide your batter evenly between the pans, smooth the tops, and bake for about 35 to 45 minutes until your cake springs back when gently touched and a tester comes out clean. Immediately brush the warm cakes with vanilla simple syrup to lock in moisture and deepen that vanilla flavor. Cooling in the pans for 10 minutes before flipping and wrapping tightly with plastic wrap helps the cake stay fresh and moist overnight — a key tip for perfect texture.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Filling

Simmer frozen strawberries with sugar until they start breaking down, then mash gently to release their juices without losing texture. Stir in a mixture of lemon juice and cornstarch to thicken the mixture until it coats the back of a spoon. Allow it to cool to room temperature in the pot before using, ensuring your filling is just the right consistency—not too runny, but perfectly spreadable between cake layers.

Step 4: Craft the Strawberry-Infused Frosting

Transform freeze-dried strawberries into a fragrant powder using a food processor, then cream it together with butter, vanilla extract, and salt for a flavorful frosting base. Slowly alternate adding powdered sugar and heavy cream, whipping the mixture until it becomes airy and light. A final step of microwaving a small portion of frosting and reincorporating it smooths the texture beautifully, making your frosting not just delicious but irresistibly silky.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Start by securing your cake base with a dollop of frosting to keep it steady. Spread a thick layer of strawberry filling on the first cake layer—adding a frosting barrier around the edges helps keep it neatly contained. Layer the second cake on top, slather on a crumb coat of frosting, and chill briefly to set. Finish with the remaining frosting, decorating as you please—whether smooth, swirled, or sprinkled with festive gems. Your masterpiece is ready to delight eyes and palates alike!

How to Serve Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe

A close-up view of a slice of cake on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface, showing three main layers: two thick, light golden-yellow sponge layers and a thick pink cream layer in between, topped with a smooth layer of the same pink cream. A shiny, bright red strawberry sauce layer is visible between the sponge and cream layers, with some sauce dripping down the side and onto the plate. The cake looks soft and moist, with the sauce adding a glossy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, fresh sliced strawberries or a few freeze-dried strawberry crumbles make perfect garnishes. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or even some edible flowers to elevate the presentation into something truly special.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to round out your dessert experience. For a lighter side, serve it alongside a fresh berry salad to echo the strawberry theme without overwhelming your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the cake into individual trifles by layering pieces in glasses with additional strawberry filling and frosting, making for an elegant and fun way to serve. Alternatively, arrange the cake on a tiered stand surrounded by fresh berries for a stunning centerpiece at parties or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Stored this way, the cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days. Bring slices to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully when wrapped securely in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let sit at room temperature for about an hour to soften the frosting before serving.

Reheating

Since this is a frosted cake, reheating is best avoided, but if you want to bring it slightly back to room temperature, leave slices out for 30 to 60 minutes prior to eating. This will bring out the flavors without compromising moisture or texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for the filling?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be used, but keep in mind that freezing helps break them down and intensifies their flavor. If using fresh, gently simmer to soften them before proceeding with the filling recipe.

Is there a substitute for powdered milk in the cake?

While powdered milk adds richness, you can omit it or substitute with a little extra whole milk or buttermilk. This might slightly change the texture, but the cake will still turn out delicious.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the cake flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on texture and baking times, as gluten-free cakes often need slight adjustments.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too soft?

Keeping your butter at room temperature but not too warm is key. Also, make sure to whip the frosting thoroughly and chill the cake briefly before applying the final coat. This helps maintain firmness, especially in warmer environments.

What’s the best way to transport this cake?

Use a sturdy cake carrier or box, ensuring the cake is chilled and the frosting firm before moving. Keep the cake flat and avoid stacking anything on top. A quick refresher in the fridge upon arrival will keep it looking fresh for serving.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling & Frosting Recipe, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite among family and friends. It’s the perfect blend of classic vanilla with the bright, juicy excitement of strawberries wrapped in a heavenly frosting that feels like a hug in dessert form. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to something unforgettable. Happy baking!