| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 400 | 22g | 13g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 1g | 5g | 0.4g |
As a New Yorker, I’m always in search of a recipe that reflects the diverse and vibrant culture of my city. Enter the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Cream Frosting. This delightful dessert is the perfect fusion of classic simplicity and fresh, fruity elegance. It’s a recipe that carries a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of childhood birthdays in the local park, scented with the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries and the creamy richness of a well-made cake.
A Celebration of Fresh Ingredients
What I truly adore about this recipe is the way it showcases fresh, quality ingredients. The strawberries aren’t just an afterthought; they’re the star. Juicy, ripe, and locally sourced when possible, these berries transform a simple vanilla cake into something extraordinary. The heavy cream whipped into a luscious frosting provides a luxurious counterpart to the light, fluffy cake base. Together, they create a harmony such that every bite feels like a celebration.
Health Benefits Worth Mentioning
Aside from being incredibly delicious, this recipe also has some noteworthy health benefits. Strawberries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and particularly high levels of antioxidants known as polyphenols. They are also a good source of manganese and potassium. The cake itself, while indulgent, uses whole ingredients without the need for preservatives or artificial flavors, ensuring that you’re serving a treat that’s not only tasty but also somewhat wholesome.
Moreover, the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Cream Frosting can be served as an alternative to heavier desserts. Unlike a dense chocolate cake or a deep-fried pastry, this dessert feels light and airy, making it a great companion for summer gatherings or a refreshing end to a rich meal. This cake pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from a simple garden salad to a decadent lobster dinner, balancing flavors and adding a sweet note to your dining experience.
Similar Recipes to Explore
If you’re drawn to the simplicity and elegance of this dish, you might also enjoy baking a classic Simple White Cake or a Lemon Cake with Berry Buttercream. Both offer a delightful balance of flavors and are similarly versatile. You could even try making a Strawberry Country Cake if you’re looking to switch things up while still enjoying the sweet, fruity notes that strawberries bring to the table.
So go ahead, give the Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Cream Frosting a try. Bake it for a special occasion or simply as a treat for yourself. I promise it will bring a slice of joy to your plate, much like how New York City brings endless culinary delights to its streets.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
Method
Step One: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 tbsp vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup whole milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step Two: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step Three: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup heavy cream and 1 tsp vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/4 cup powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped, and 1 pinch of salt until combined.
Step Four: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, place it on a serving plate. Generously spread the strawberry cream frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with additional chopped strawberries if desired. Slice and serve. Enjoy your Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Cream Frosting!
