As summer blooms and fresh strawberries grace our markets, there’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of baked delights wafting through the kitchen. Inspired by a lazy afternoon and a desire for something special, I crafted this Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake that perfectly captures the season’s essence. The moment you slice through its fluffy layers, you’re welcomed by a burst of strawberry filling and creamy vanilla frosting that dances on your palate.

This cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s an effortless showstopper that turns any gathering into a celebration. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a seasoned baker to impress your friends and family. So, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a sweet treat to enjoy in the sun, let’s dive into this delightful and easy-to-make Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake that’s sure to become a staple at your table!

Why is Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake a must-try?

Irresistible Sweetness: This cake perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich flavor of vanilla, making every bite a joyous experience.

Easily Crafted: You’ll love that this recipe is simple to tackle, requiring just everyday ingredients and basic baking skills.

Summer Showstopper: With its bright colors and fresh flavors, it’s the ideal centerpiece for summer gatherings, BBQs, or birthdays.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap strawberries for other seasonal fruits or try different frostings to match your taste preferences.

Delightful Texture: The fluffy layers combined with the gooey strawberry filling create a cake that’s both light and indulgent.

This Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds!

Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake Ingredients

Harness the fresh flavors of summer with this delightful cake!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Salt – Enhances flavor; opt for sea salt for a finer, distinct taste.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; consider flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cake with flavor; use vanilla bean paste for an even stronger taste.
Whole Milk (or Buttermilk) – Adds moisture and richness; almond or oat milk works well as a non-dairy substitute.

For the Strawberry Filling

Fresh Strawberries – Key ingredient for filling, offering natural sweetness and fruity flavor; frozen strawberries can be used, but they should be thawed and drained.
Granulated Sugar for Filling – Sweetens the strawberries; adjust based on the sweetness of the berries.
Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness and helps preserve color; freshly squeezed is ideal.
Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; arrowroot can be used as a substitute if desired.

For the Frosting

Vanilla Buttercream – A classic choice for frosting; can be made with or without strawberries for a fruity twist.
Optional Strawberry Puree – For a refreshing strawberry vanilla frosting; blend fresh strawberries until smooth.

Enjoy creating this delightful Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake that truly embodies the essence of summer!

How to Make Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans by greasing them or lining them with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your cake layers later!
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. This helps aerate the mixture, ensuring your cake layers turn out light and fluffy.
Cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air for a lovely texture in your cake!
Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then incorporate the pure vanilla extract. This enriches the batter with flavor and moisture.
Incorporate the dry ingredients and milk gradually, alternating between each, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want that airy texture to stay intact!
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. This helps ensure even baking and a beautiful final presentation.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be lightly golden brown on top and spring back when gently pressed.
Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and allows them to finish cooling down.
Prepare the strawberry filling by combining fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened, then let cool to room temperature.
Frost your cooled cake with either a vanilla buttercream or a strawberry vanilla frosting between the layers, on top, and around the sides. This will create a beautifully decadent dessert!

Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices for a stunning finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake

Avoid Overmixing: Keep your cake airy by mixing only until ingredients are combined. This helps prevent dense, heavy layers.
Fresh Strawberries: Choose strawberries at peak ripeness for the most flavorful filling. Overripe or underripe strawberries can alter the taste significantly.
Cool Completely: Always cool your cake layers thoroughly before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can lead to melting and a messy presentation.
Thickening Filling: Adjust the cornstarch in your strawberry filling based on the juiciness of your strawberries. Too much liquid can make it runny.
Chill Before Serving: For easier slicing and a prettier presentation, chill your frosted cake for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving.

This Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake is sure to delight your summer gatherings!

What to Serve with Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake?

Elevate your summer gathering with delightful pairings that complement this luscious cake’s sweetness and fruitiness.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast and enhances the cake’s flavors.
Fresh Berries: Serving with a side of mixed berries brings vibrant colors and a burst of tangy sweetness to each bite.
Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only brightens the plate but also adds a refreshing herbal note to balance the cake’s richness.
Iced Tea: A glass of chilled iced tea, whether sweetened or not, offers a refreshing sip that harmonizes beautifully with the dessert.
Pineapple Sorbet: The tropical flavor of pineapple sorbet can offer a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the cake’s berry filling perfectly.

A simple fruit salad can also add brightness to the table. Consider mixing seasonal fruits like kiwi and watermelon to enhance the summery vibe. These pairing suggestions will take your serving experience to the next level!

Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful cake with these variations!

Raspberry Burst: Substitute fresh strawberries with raspberries for a tangy twist that elevates the flavor profile beautifully. Their slight tartness pairs perfectly with the sweet frosting.
Peachy Keen: Use ripe peaches instead of strawberries for a juicy, summery flavor. The peaches add a delightful sweetness and a hint of floral notes that scream summer!
Coconut Cream Frosting: Swap the traditional frosting with coconut cream for a tropical twist. This decadent frosting pairs beautifully with the vanilla layers, enhancing the overall taste.
Lemon Zest Kick: Add lemon zest to the vanilla cake batter for a refreshing citrus zing. It brightens the flavors, making each bite feel like a sunny day.
Almond Flavoring: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for an aromatic twist. Just a touch of almond brings a nutty richness that elevates the cake’s flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cake for a decadent finish. The rich chocolate complements the fruity layers, creating a divine combination that’s hard to resist!
Flavored Jam Filling: Use your favorite jam—like apricot or blueberry—as a filling for a quick and tasty alternative. This adds a unique flavor layer while saving time!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, like toasted almonds or pecans, into the frosting or as a decorative topping. The crunchy texture provides a lovely contrast to the soft cake layers.

Each of these variations invites you to explore new flavors and make this cake truly your own!

Storage Tips for Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 1 day if it’s unfrosted; for frosted cakes, it’s best to refrigerate to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to keep it moist and flavorful.

Freezer: If you wish to enjoy it later, freeze the unfrosted layers in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Make sure the wrapping is tight to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to serve, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste. Enjoy this delightful Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake ahead of time can save you precious moments during busy summer gatherings! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain moisture. The strawberry filling can also be made up to 2 days ahead; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. As for the frosting, it can be prepared 24 hours before serving and stored in the fridge as well. When it’s time to assemble, just layer the cake with the chilled filling and frosting, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh and vibrant as if you had made it that day!

Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best strawberries for this cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red with a natural sheen. They should be firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. The more fragrant they are, the better the flavor! Peak ripeness will yield the sweetest filling, so try to use them when they’re in season.

How should I store the Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake?
To keep your delectable cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If the cake is unfrosted, you can leave it at room temperature for a day. Make sure to wrap it well to maintain moisture!

Can I freeze the Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze the layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the layers in the fridge overnight, and then frost them when they reach room temperature.

What if my cake layers come out dense?
Very! A dense texture often stems from overmixing the batter or using ingredients straight from the fridge. Be sure to mix just until combined, and consider allowing your eggs and milk to come to room temperature before using them for the best results.

Is this Strawberry-Infused Vanilla Layer Cake suitable for those with food allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re making this cake for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make several convenient substitutions. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk. You can replace the eggs with flax eggs, made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Always check for any additional allergens in the specific products you use.