Easy Guide: How to Make Cake with Strawberry Filling
Everyone loves a delicious cake, and adding a strawberry filling can take your baking to the next level. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a mouth-watering cake with a delightful strawberry filling. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, this step-by-step guide will make it easy for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Baking a cake with strawberry filling requires a mix of both basic and specific ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
For the Cake
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of whole milk
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of water
For the Frosting (Optional)
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
Steps to Make the Cake
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until blended.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternately add the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Steps to Make the Strawberry Filling
1. Cook the Strawberries
In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and start to break down.
2. Thicken the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Add this to the strawberry mixture and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens.
- Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely before using it in the cake.
Assembling the Cake
1. Level the Cakes
Once the cakes are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. This will ensure that the cakes stack evenly.
2. Add the Strawberry Filling
Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of the cooled strawberry filling over the top. Be careful not to spread the filling too close to the edge to prevent it from oozing out.
3. Top with the Second Layer
Place the second cake layer on top of the strawberry filling. Press down gently to secure it.
Optional: Frosting the Cake
1. Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
2. Frost the Cake
Use a spatula to spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Smooth it out as much as possible for a polished look.
3. Add Decorative Touches
If desired, add fresh strawberries or edible flowers on top for an elegant touch.
Serving and Storing
Once assembled and decorated, your cake with strawberry filling is ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the delightful combination of fluffy cake and rich strawberry filling.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- The cake can be kept for up to 3 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
Making a cake with strawberry filling doesn’t have to be intimidating. With this easy guide, you can impress your friends and family with a delicious homemade cake. Follow these steps, and enjoy the scrumptious results!