Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the refreshing taste of fresh berries combined with luscious cream, then you’re going to adore this Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe. This cake brings together moist, tender layers infused with subtle vanilla and a perfectly balanced sweetness, topped generously with fluffy whipped cream and juicy strawberries. It’s a celebration of fresh flavors and delightful textures that’s as charming on a summer afternoon as it is a centerpiece for any festive gathering. Trust me, once you bake this, it will become a beloved dessert you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe are simple yet essential. Each one plays a vital role in ensuring your cake is moist, fluffy, and beautifully balanced in flavor and texture.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s tender crumb and structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise light and airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Keeps the crumb balanced and soft.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweetness and richness.
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture without heaviness and is a great fat substitute.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar or unrefined sugar: For that perfect, sweet flavor.
• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil: Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat): Keeps the batter smooth and adaptable to vegan needs.
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice: Reacts with baking soda to create lift and tenderness.
• 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream or coconut cream (for vegan): Essential for luscious, fluffy whipped topping.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just right.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cream with a delightful aroma and taste.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: Provides juicy bursts of natural sweetness in every bite.
• Extra whole strawberries for topping (optional): Perfect for a pretty, inviting decoration.

How to Make Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This preparation is key to ensuring your cakes bake evenly and come out cleanly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple step blends the leavening agents evenly through the flour, setting the stage for a perfectly risen cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now, in a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, sugar, melted coconut or vegetable oil, pure vanilla extract, plant-based milk, and vinegar or lemon juice until they’re well combined. This mixture will bring moisture, sweetness, and a touch of tang to your cake batter.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as that can make the cake tough rather than tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean. This ensures your cake layers are perfectly cooked through without drying out.

Step 6: Cool Your Cake

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here helps the cakes set and prevents the whipped cream from melting during assembly.

Step 7: Whip the Cream

With your cold heavy whipping cream or coconut cream, whisk together the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This luscious whipped topping is the heart of that creamy, dreamy layer cake.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of the whipped cream on top, then add a thick layer of sliced strawberries. This balancing act creates the signature strawberry and cream layering.

Step 9: Top and Decorate

Set the second cake layer on top, cover it completely with more whipped cream, and decorate with whole or sliced strawberries for that picture-perfect finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 10: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the textures firm up. This chilling step is the secret to achieving a slice that holds beautifully when served.

How to Serve Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers make charming complements to the strawberries on top, adding a splash of green and a fresh aroma that will impress guests.

Side Dishes

A light, freshly brewed tea or a crisp glass of sparkling rosé pairs wonderfully with this cake, balancing the creamy sweetness with a refreshing beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices of the cake on colorful plates with a drizzle of strawberry coulis or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added texture and elegance. Alternatively, individual mini versions in clear cups layered with cake pieces, cream, and fresh strawberries make fun treats for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the cream’s texture and the cake’s moistness.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them before assembling. Whip the cream fresh when ready to serve for the best texture, and layer everything just before serving.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, allow any frozen cake layers to thaw completely in the fridge before assembling with freshly whipped cream and strawberries.

FAQs

Can I use regular dairy milk instead of plant-based milk?

Absolutely! Regular milk works perfectly in this recipe, though plant-based milk makes it accessible for those with dietary preferences or allergies.

What can I substitute for applesauce?

If you don’t have applesauce, you can use mashed banana or yogurt, which also add moisture but may slightly change the flavor.

How can I make this cake vegan?

Use coconut cream for the whipped topping and choose plant-based milk. Make sure the sugar and other ingredients you use are vegan-friendly.

Is it important to chill the cake before serving?

Yes, chilling allows the whipped cream to firm up and the layers to meld, resulting in cleaner slices and a better overall texture.

Can I prepare the cake layers in advance?

You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and keep them wrapped in the fridge. Whip the cream fresh and assemble shortly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Strawberry & Cream Layer Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful journey of fresh, sweet, and creamy goodness wrapped up in every bite. Whether for a special occasion or just a craving for something sweet and comforting, this recipe is a winner you’ll return to time and again. Happy baking and even happier eating!

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