Triple Strawberry Cake

About Triple Strawberry Cake

The Triple Strawberry Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of spring and summer in cake form. This delectable treat captures the essence of fresh strawberries through every layer, offering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Fruity, sweet, and slightly tangy, each bite is infused with the natural sweetness of strawberries, complemented by a light and airy vanilla cake that provides the perfect texture and structure.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Triple Strawberry Cake

Creating the Triple Strawberry Cake requires careful consideration of ingredients to ensure you get the best flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed list to help you gather everything you need.

Complete Ingredients List

• For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt

• For the Strawberry Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

• For the Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting:

  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, don’t worry! Here are some viable substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread, and use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. For the whipped cream, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
• Sugar Alternatives: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie version. Adjust measurements as necessary according to the product instructions.

For those feeling adventurous, consider flavor variations. Adding a touch of almond extract can enhance the cake base, or a hint of balsamic vinegar can elevate the strawberry filling. Each tweak can create an entirely new experience!

How to Make Triple Strawberry Cake

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the baking process. The preparation of the Triple Strawberry Cake involves several steps, but with patience and creativity, you’ll end up with a showstopper that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until it becomes light and fluffy, typically about 3-5 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this might result in a denser cake. Instead, mix until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After, carefully run a knife around the edges and invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the strawberry filling. In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices, about 5 minutes. Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water, then add it to the strawberry mixture. Stir until thickened, then remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting

For the frosting, whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until incorporated. Finally, mix in the pureed strawberries until light and fluffy. If desired, you can add a bit more sugar or vanilla extract for enhanced sweetness and flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

To assemble, place one layer of the vanilla cake as the base on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of the strawberry filling on top, followed by a layer of whipped cream frosting. Repeat with the second layer, and then place the third layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting. Decorate with additional fresh strawberries on top for an appealing finish.

Serving Suggestions for Triple Strawberry Cake

The Triple Strawberry Cake is best enjoyed fresh, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings. Here’s how to elevate your serving experience.

How to Serve Triple Strawberry Cake

Serve your cake at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. If you prefer a chilled dessert, you can refrigerate it for about an hour before serving. When it comes to cutting, use a sharp, serrated knife to create clean slices and showcase its delightful layers. Moistening the knife with warm water before slicing can help too.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

To add a personal touch, consider drizzling with a strawberry coulis or serving with a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side. A sprinkle of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely visual element, while contrasting flavors such as dark chocolate shavings or a tangy lemon sauce can provide a delightful balance.

Storing & Preserving Triple Strawberry Cake

You might be tempted to eat every last slice of this cake, but if you do have leftovers, here are some storage tips!

Best Storage Methods

The Triple Strawberry Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator, where it will keep for 3-5 days. For ultimate freshness, you can freeze the un-frosted layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To defrost individual slices, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’ve frozen a whole cake, transfer it to the fridge a day before you plan to serve it for a gradual thaw, ensuring you retain the best texture.

Tips for Perfect Triple Strawberry Cake Every Time

Baking can be an art that requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your Triple Strawberry Cake is a resounding success.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Batter: Stir just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
2. Underbaking: Always check for doneness with a toothpick; the center should come out clean.
3. Cold Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best texture.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Lift with Cake Strips: For more even layers, use cake strips (or wet towels) to wrap around your pans while baking.
• Chill Your Whipped Cream: Before whipping, chill your mixing bowl and beaters to help achieve better volume for your frosting.
• Experiment with Flavor: Don’t be afraid to add a splash of pure vanilla extract to your strawberry filling for an appealing depth in flavor.

Fun Variations of Triple Strawberry Cake

Looking to switch things up? Here are some creative twists and adjustments you can make to your Triple Strawberry Cake.

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

• Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
• Tropical Strawberry Cake: Add shredded coconut or crushed pineapple for a tropical twist on the filling.
• Layered with Other Fruits: Incorporate raspberries or blueberries into the filling or as decorative toppings for a mixed berry delight.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in your cake and frosting for a healthier, sugar-free version.

FAQs

What If My Triple Strawberry Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

Baking mishaps happen, but many common issues can be easily fixed:

• Too Dry: Ensure you measure your flour accurately and avoid overbaking. A simple syrup can be brushed on layers to add moisture.
• Not Rising: Ensure your baking powder is fresh. It should bubble when mixed with water. Also, do not open the oven until at least halfway through baking to maintain even temperature.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. The strawberry filling can be prepared a day ahead as well, just be sure to refrigerate it until needed.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

Feel free to swap granulated sugar for alternative sweeteners or replace dairy with non-dairy options. If you have trouble accessing fresh strawberries, high-quality frozen strawberries can be used in both the filling and frosting, ensuring great flavor year-round.

Print