Layered Strawberry Cake

Discover a dessert that invigorates: our delightful Layered Strawberry Cake. It’s a symphony of a light, tender sponge, fresh, juicy strawberries, and a luscious, protein-rich cream. This Layered Strawberry Cake offers pure indulgence without compromise, perfectly blending exquisite flavor with smart nutrition. Reclaim your vitality and savor every mindful, delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Layered Strawberry Cake Recipe

• Flavor Fusion: Experience the delightful balance of sweet, tangy strawberries with a rich, yet light, cake and frosting.
• Effortless Elegance: Impress guests and satisfy cravings with a stunning dessert, surprisingly simple to assemble.
• Nutrient-Enhanced Indulgence: Enjoy a treat that aligns with your active lifestyle, offering beneficial nutrients and a protein boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this magnificent Layered Strawberry Cake begins with selecting quality ingredients. These form the foundation of flavor and nutrition, supporting your vibrant lifestyle.

Substitutions & Variations

Embrace flexibility! Tailoring your Layered Strawberry Cake to needs makes it yours. I encourage smart swaps that maintain integrity and boost vitality. Here are active-lifestyle-friendly variations:

• Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free Layered Strawberry Cake, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a tender crumb.
• Sweetener Swaps: Replace sugar with erythritol or monk fruit blend to reduce added sugars.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free Layered Strawberry Cake.
• Protein Power-Up: Add unflavored collagen peptides (1-2 scoops) to dry cake ingredients for a nutritional boost.
• Berry Medley: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries in the filling.
• Flavor Infusions: Add lemon zest to batter or almond extract to frosting for a sophisticated twist.

If you’re looking for more flexible dessert options, check out this Easy Strawberry Banana Pudding, an adaptation that brings a fresh twist to traditional flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

The right tools simplify baking and ensure a professional finish for your Layered Strawberry Cake:

• Three 8-inch Round Cake Pans
• Parchment Paper
• Large Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer
• Rubber Spatula
• Whisk
• Small Saucepan
• Wire Rack
• Serrated Knife
• Offset Spatula
• Turntable (Optional)
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this magnificent Layered Strawberry Cake is a journey of delicious discovery. Follow these clear, precise steps for perfect layers, from tender sponge to luscious, protein-enriched frosting. Enjoy your homemade Layered Strawberry Cake.

1. Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease, flour, and line three 8-inch pans with parchment. Key for a perfectly baked Layered Strawberry Cake.
2. Combine Dry: Whisk cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat softened butter until light. Gradually add sugar, creaming until pale and airy (3-5 min). Critical for a tender Layered Strawberry Cake.
4. Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Scrape bowl.
5. Alternate Wet/Dry: On low speed, add dry (three additions) alternating with milk (two additions), starting/ending with dry. Mix just until combined; do not overmix. Stir in vanilla.
6. Bake Layers: Divide batter evenly. Bake 25-30 min, or until skewer comes out clean.
7. Cool Cakes: Cool in pans 10-15 min, then invert onto rack to cool completely. Ensure fully cool before frosting your Layered Strawberry Cake.
8. Strawberry Filling: Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice in saucepan over medium heat. Cook until softened (5-7 min). Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook until thickened (1-2 min). Cool completely.
9. Protein Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Beat in vanilla and optional protein powder. This protein-enhanced frosting elevates your Layered Strawberry Cake.
10. Assemble: Level cooled layers. Place one on plate. Spread 1/3 filling, then generous frosting.
11. Repeat: Add second layer, repeat filling and frosting. Add final layer.
12. Frost: Use remaining frosting for top and sides. Smooth with offset spatula.
13. Garnish & Serve: Decorate with fresh strawberries/mint. Refrigerate 30 min to set before slicing your delicious Layered Strawberry Cake!

While you’re perfecting your layers, consider adding a nutritious touch with this Healthy Strawberry Chia Pudding recipe, which provides a delightful texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

Small details make a big difference. These tips ensure perfection and empower your baking skills.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into cups, then level. Scooping packs too much, leading to a dense cake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter, cream cheese, eggs emulsify better for smooth batter/frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until combined.
• Chill Frosting: If frosting is too soft, refrigerate 15-20 minutes. Firmer frosting is easier to work with.
• Level Cakes: For professional looks, trim domed tops from cooled layers. This ensures flat stacking.
• Crumb Coat: Apply thin frosting layer, refrigerate 15-20 minutes, then apply final frosting. Traps crumbs for a pristine finish.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Proper storage is essential to preserve freshness. As someone who values efficiency, I advocate for smart strategies. Here’s how to ensure every slice remains a joyful experience:

• Refrigeration: This cake must be stored in the refrigerator due to fresh strawberries and cream cheese frosting. Airtight container or covered loosely. Fresh for 3-4 days.
• Room Temperature: Remove from refrigerator 15-30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
• Freezing Layers: Wrap cooled unfrosted layers tightly in plastic then foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator. Freezing a fully assembled Layered Strawberry Cake is not recommended.
• Protect Berries: If storing slices, cover exposed strawberry filling to prevent drying or discoloring.

To enhance your storage techniques further, it’s worth looking into this simple Pink Gelatin recipe that complements the freshness of your layered cake beautifully.

What to Serve With This Recipe

While this cake is a showstopper, balanced pairings elevate the meal. As an advocate for holistic vitality, I recommend complementing indulgent moments with nutrient-rich choices. Here are ideal companions for this recipe:

• Light, Fresh Salad: Green salad with delicate vinaigrette cuts richness, adds contrast.
• Grilled Lean Protein: Grilled chicken, baked salmon, or lean steak provide sustained energy and muscle support.
• Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers add fiber and micronutrients.
• Herbal Tea: Unwind with soothing herbal tea (peppermint, chamomile, green tea).
• Greek Yogurt Parfait (Deconstructed): Small plain Greek yogurt with fresh strawberries and nuts for extra protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Navigating baking nuances can raise questions. Here are answers to empower you with confidence.

Layered Strawberry Cake is a popular dessert that features light cake layers filled and topped with fresh strawberries and cream, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. You can learn more about this famous dessert in various culinary discussions, including its historical significance and modern variations found in different cuisines, as outlined in this article.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an affirmation of mindful indulgence. It embodies strength, vitality, and the joy of wholesome flavors. You’re not just eating cake; you’re fueling your active life with every delicious, protein-kissed bite. Embrace this vibrant celebration and savor your journey to sustained energy and well-being.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Understanding the nutritional profile empowers informed choices. This cake, enjoyed mindfully, fits a balanced, active lifestyle. Estimated breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings, with protein powder in frosting):

Anne Newgent

Layered Strawberry Cake

Discover a dessert that invigorates: our delightful Layered Strawberry Cake. It’s a symphony of a light, tender sponge, fresh, juicy strawberries, and a luscious, protein-rich cream. This Layered Strawberry Cake offers pure indulgence without compromise, perfectly blending exquisite flavor with smart nutrition.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 475

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 ½ cups cake flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 large eggs (room temp)
• 1 cup whole milk (room temp)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled, sliced)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling, adjust)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 16 oz cream cheese (full fat, softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• ½ cup unflavored protein powder (optional)
• ½ cup fresh strawberries (for garnish)
• small handful fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease, flour, and line three 8-inch pans with parchment.
2. Whisk cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. Beat softened butter until light. Gradually add sugar, creaming until pale and airy (3-5 min).
4. Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Scrape bowl.
5. On low speed, add dry ingredients (three additions) alternating with milk (two additions), starting/ending with dry. Mix just until combined; stir in vanilla.
6. Divide batter evenly among the pans. Bake for 25-30 min, or until skewer comes out clean.
7. Cool in pans for 10-15 min, then invert onto rack to cool completely.
8. Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until softened (5-7 min). Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook until thickened (1-2 min). Cool completely.
9. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Beat in vanilla and optional protein powder.
10. Level cooled cake layers. Spread 1/3 filling on the first layer, then generous frosting.
11. Repeat with second layer and add the final layer on top.
12. Use remaining frosting to frost the top and sides. Smooth with an offset spatula.
13. Decorate with fresh strawberries and mint. Refrigerate for 30 min to set before slicing.

Notes

Measure flour correctly for a tender cake. Ensure room temperature ingredients for best emulsification. Don’t overmix the batter. Level cakes for perfect stacking. Refrigerate for optimal serving temperature.

Anne Newgent

High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.

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