Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *vanilla bean layer cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting*! It’s like a slice of heaven on a plate! The way the creamy, dreamy strawberry frosting pairs with the rich, aromatic vanilla bean cake is just magical. I can still remember the first time I made this cake for my sister’s birthday. The moment I pulled it from the oven, my kitchen was filled with the most incredible scent—like a warm hug from the oven! Everyone’s eyes lit up when they saw it, and the first bite was nothing short of a jaw-dropper. Trust me, there’s something so special about this flavor combination that it’s become my go-to for celebrations. So, if you’re looking to impress your friends or just want to treat yourself, this is the cake you need in your life! Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
(Tip: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
How to Prepare Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Prepping the Cake Batter
Alright, let’s get this cake party started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your three 9-inch round cake pans and give them a good greasing with butter or cooking spray, then dust them with flour. This is key, trust me—nobody wants their cake sticking to the pan!
Now, in a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This will be your dry mix. In a separate, larger bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. You really want to beat that sugar into the butter; it helps create a lovely texture. Then, add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget to stir in that fabulous tablespoon of vanilla bean paste—this is where the magic happens!
Once your wet mixture is all combined, it’s time to alternate adding the flour mixture and 1 cup of milk into the bowl, starting and ending with the flour. Gently fold it all together until just combined. You want to keep that batter nice and airy!
Baking the Cake Layers
Now, it’s time to divide that beautiful batter evenly among your prepared pans. I usually just eyeball it, but if you want to be precise, a kitchen scale works wonders! Once that’s done, pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Here’s a little tip: keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. When they’re done, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them firm up a bit, making it easier to frost later.
Making the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cake layers are cooling, let’s whip up that incredible strawberry cream cheese frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until it’s smooth and creamy—this is the base for your frosting. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing carefully to avoid a sugar cloud. Once it’s all incorporated, pour in that delicious 1 cup of pureed fresh strawberries and mix until everything is well combined. You’ll want to taste it at this point—oh my goodness, it’s so good!
Assembling the Cake
Now comes the fun part—assembling your cake! Place one layer of cake on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Then, add your second layer and repeat. Once you stack the third layer on top, use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a little rustic charm adds character! For a beautiful presentation, you can garnish with fresh strawberries on top or even sprinkle some crumbs around the base. Wow your guests, and get ready for compliments galore!
Tips for Success with Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Alright, let’s make sure your vanilla bean layer cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some tips I’ve gathered from my own baking adventures that will help you avoid any hiccups and ensure your cake shines.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and cream cheese, are at room temperature. This helps everything blend beautifully and gives you that light, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it to be light and airy!
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor in your frosting, opt for fresh strawberries. Frozen ones can add extra moisture, which might make your frosting too runny. Plus, fresh strawberries just taste better!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cakes a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling Time: Be patient when cooling your cake layers! Let them sit in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps prevent breakage and makes them easier to handle.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting turns out too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar until you reach that perfect spreadable consistency.
- Chill Before Frosting: If your cake layers are still warm, consider popping them in the fridge for a bit before frosting. This helps the frosting set better and gives you cleaner edges.
- Presentation: Don’t stress about making your frosting look perfect! A little rustic charm is totally in vogue, and adding fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of crumbs can elevate the look without the fuss!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping cake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Happy baking!
Variations of Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
If you’re like me and love to play around in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that this vanilla bean layer cake is super versatile! Here are some fun variations to consider that can take your cake to a whole new level of deliciousness:
- Mixed Berry Frosting: Swap out the strawberries for a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Just puree them similarly and watch the colors and flavors dance on your cake!
- Citrus Twist: Add some lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing citrus kick. It brightens up the flavor and gives such a lovely pop!
- Chocolate Ganache: For a rich chocolatey twist, drizzle some chocolate ganache over the top instead of frosting the whole cake. Just melt some chocolate with cream, let it cool slightly, and pour it over the cake for a decadent finish.
- Nuts About It: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for a lovely crunch. You can also sprinkle some on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the frosted cake adds a sweet and salty contrast that’s simply divine. Just make sure to keep it chilled, or it’ll get too runny!
- Layered Flavors: Consider alternating layers of different flavors, like chocolate or lemon cake, for a fun surprise when you slice into it. Each bite can be a delightful adventure!
- Vegan Version: For a plant-based twist, substitute the butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and opt for a dairy-free cream cheese. The taste will still be amazing!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to tailor the cake to your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. So go ahead, get creative, and let your flavor imagination run wild! You’ll be amazed at how one cake recipe can lead to so many delightful creations.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious vanilla bean layer cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store it properly so it stays as delightful as the day you baked it!
First off, if you have any leftover cake, make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and keeps that creamy frosting intact. If you’ve got a whole cake, just cover it with some plastic wrap or aluminum foil. I usually wrap the cake plate with plastic wrap, making sure it’s sealed tight.
Now, if you want to store individual slices, you can wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag. This way, you can grab a slice whenever that sweet craving hits!
As for how long it will last, your cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before digging in again; this really brings back the flavors and textures!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake! To do this, wrap the whole cake or individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-wrapping helps prevent freezer burn. Your cake will be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to label it with the date so you don’t forget about it!
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. Just a little tip—if you want to refresh the frosting, whip up a quick batch of the strawberry cream cheese frosting and add it right before serving!
Following these storage tips will help ensure that your lovely cake remains just as scrumptious as it was on baking day. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve got some typical estimates here, they’re not set in stone. Always best to check your labels for the most accurate info!
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Enjoy your delicious cake, and remember that every slice is a little celebration of flavor and joy!
FAQ About Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Got questions? No problem! I’m here to help you navigate through any queries you might have about this gorgeous vanilla bean layer cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting. Let’s dive into some of the most common questions!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just be sure to frost it on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor and freshness!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2-3 months.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the frosting?
While fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if you thaw and drain them well. Just keep in mind that they might make the frosting a little more watery, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly!
What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?
No worries! You can substitute it with pure vanilla extract. If you want that speckled look, add in a little bit of vanilla bean seeds if you have a vanilla bean on hand. It’ll still be delicious!
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the strawberry cream cheese frosting a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a quick mix to fluff it back up!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for that perfect texture!
Can I use different cake sizes?
Sure thing! If you want to use 8-inch or 6-inch pans, just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary. Always check for doneness with a toothpick!
My frosting turned out too runny. What did I do wrong?
It could be that the strawberries added too much moisture, or the cream cheese wasn’t fully chilled. Just add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency!
I hope these answers help you whip up the most spectacular vanilla bean layer cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Happy baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a show-stopper! The combination of vanilla bean and strawberry cream cheese frosting is not only delicious but also looks stunning on any dessert table.
- Simple steps! The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. You won’t feel overwhelmed at all!
- Perfect for celebrations! Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress your guests and make any occasion special.
- Versatile flavors! With the option to switch up the frosting or add different fruits, you can easily customize this cake to fit your taste or the season.
- Moist and fluffy texture! The use of quality ingredients, like real vanilla bean paste and fresh strawberries, ensures every bite is light and flavorful.
- Fun to decorate! Layering and frosting the cake is a delightful experience, and you can get creative with your presentation—fresh berries, sprinkles, or even edible flowers!
- Leftovers are a treat! If there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they keep well in the fridge and taste just as good the next day!
Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious vanilla bean layer cake topped with strawberry cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla bean paste.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cakes and stack them.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: vanilla bean layer cake, strawberry cream cheese frosting