Vanilla cake with strawberry filling is a soft layered dessert made with fluffy vanilla sponge and rich homemade strawberry filling.
The taste is light, sweet, and fruity with a creamy balance that melts smoothly in every bite. My work is always about vanilla cake with strawberry filling and discovering new things in baking.
The specialty comes from fresh strawberries cooked into a thick jam style layer and soft vanilla sponge that blends beautifully.
Extra additions like whipped cream, white chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit slices make it more delicious. Now the full step-by-step method is shown in a simple way for easy making at home.
About This Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling
Vanilla cake with strawberry filling delivers a soft, moist texture that melts gently in the mouth. The vanilla sponge feels light and fluffy, carrying a sweet creamy base that pairs beautifully with the bright strawberry filling.
The strawberry layer adds a fresh, slightly tangy note that balances the sweetness and keeps the flavor clean. Performance of this cake stays consistent when baked correctly, holding structure well for layering and slicing.
The buttercream gives a smooth finish and rich mouthfeel. Overall taste feels homemade, fresh, and balanced in every bite, making vanilla cake with strawberry filling enjoyable for all ages.
How To Prepare Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cooling & Assembly Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Western-style baking
Cooking Style: Oven-baked layered cake
Dish Type: Layer cake / celebration cake
Yield: 1 two-layer 8-inch cake
Serving Size: 12 slices

Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
- 8-inch cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Knife or cake leveler
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 6 cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled, thawed if frozen)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- A pinch of salt
Vanilla Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or 1 tsp if using unsalted butter preference adjusted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Vanilla Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, 226g)
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
1. Start by making the strawberry filling. Put strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, water, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt into a saucepan. Cook it on medium heat while stirring continuously until it thickens like jam. Once done, set it aside and let it cool completely.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch cake pans by greasing them well and lining them with parchment paper so the cakes don’t stick.
3. Now prepare the dry mixture. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt together. Keep it aside for later.
4. In a separate large bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. Add egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Pour in milk and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything looks smooth and well combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in batches. Mix gently just until everything comes together doesn’t over mix or the cake will turn dense.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool completely.
8. For the buttercream, beat the butter until soft and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip until it becomes light and fluffy.
9. Finally, assemble the cake. Place one cake layer down, spread strawberry filling and buttercream on top, then repeat with the next layer. Cover the whole cake with frosting and decorate it the way you like.
Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 calories |
| Sugar | 55 grams |
| Fat | 24 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 72 grams |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 0.18 grams |
Why It’s Popular
Vanilla cake with strawberry filling is popular because it brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special and comforting.
The soft vanilla sponge creates a gentle base that everyone enjoys, while the strawberry filling adds a fresh fruit taste that feels homemade and natural.
The contrast between creamy frosting and fruity layers makes it visually appealing and satisfying to serve at celebrations.
It is also easy to customize with different toppings or fillings, making it suitable for birthdays, gatherings, or casual dessert moments. This balance of taste, texture, and presentation keeps it a favorite choice for many people.
Why My Recipe Works
This vanilla cake with strawberry filling works because the ingredient balance is carefully structured to give soft texture, stable layers, and rich flavor in every bite. The combination of butter and oil keeps the vanilla sponge moist while still light enough to hold filling and frosting.
Cornstarch helps create a tender crumb, making the vanilla cake with strawberry filling less dense and more delicate. Egg whites give structure and lift without heaviness.
The strawberry filling is thickened properly so it does not run between layers, keeping the cake stable when sliced. Buttercream is whipped smooth for easy spreading and clean finishing, making assembly simple and reliable.
My Tips For Success!
1. Always use room temperature ingredients so the batter mixes smoothly and the cake rises evenly without heaviness.
2. Do not overmix the batter after adding flour because it can make the sponge dense instead of soft and fluffy.
3. Cool the strawberry filling completely before layering so it stays thick and does not soak into the cake layers.
4. Beat butter and sugar until light and creamy for better texture and a softer crumb.
5. Measure ingredients accurately using cups to keep the balance of flavor and structure consistent.
6. Let cake layers cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
7. Chill the assembled cake before slicing for clean, sharp layers and a neat finish.
Serving Suggestions
Vanilla cake with strawberry filling tastes best when served slightly chilled so the layers stay firm and fresh. Slice it into clean portions using a sharp knife for neat presentation.
It pairs beautifully with hot tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk for a balanced dessert moment. For special occasions, add fresh strawberries or light chocolate drizzle on top for extra visual appeal.
A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side also enhances the experience. Serve on a chilled plate to keep the buttercream smooth and the filling fresh for longer enjoyment.
When To Serve
Vanilla cake with strawberry filling is best served during celebrations, birthdays, family gatherings, and small parties where a homemade dessert feels special. It also fits well for afternoon tea, weekend treats, and casual get-togethers at home.
The light vanilla sponge and fruity strawberry layer make it suitable for warm seasons like spring and summer, when fresh fruit desserts are most enjoyable.
It can also be served after meals as a sweet finish or prepared ahead for festive occasions. This cake works well for both everyday enjoyment and memorable moments shared with friends and family.
Storage
Store vanilla cake with strawberry filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and safe to eat. It stays good for up to 3–4 days when properly chilled.
Always cover the cake well so it does not absorb other food smells from the fridge. If already sliced, wrap each piece in plastic wrap for better moisture retention.
Before serving, keep it at room temperature for 10–15 minutes so the texture softens slightly and the flavors taste better. Freezing is also possible for up to 1 month, but thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites in the cake?
Yes, using whole eggs will add more richness and a slightly denser texture, but the cake will still taste delicious. Just keep in mind the lightness might change a bit.
How can I prevent the strawberry filling from making the cake soggy?
It’s important to let the strawberry filling cool completely and thicken before spreading it on the cake layers. This helps keep the filling stable and prevents it from soaking into the cake too much.
Can I substitute strawberries with other fruits for the filling?
Definitely! You can use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the filling thickens properly.
What’s the best way to store leftover cake to keep it fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate. This will keep the cake moist and fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Is it possible to double this recipe for a bigger cake?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in larger pans or multiple pans. Just watch the baking time closely, as bigger cakes might need extra time to bake through evenly.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling turned out easy to make and truly delicious. I enjoyed every step, from preparing the sweet strawberry filling to layering and frosting the soft vanilla cake.
It brought back good memories and reminded me how fun baking can be. I hope you understand my simple and tasty Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling creation.
I really enjoyed making it and sharing it. I hope you try vanilla cake with strawberry filling soon and enjoy it just as much as I did.
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Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
- 8-inch cake pans
- parchment paper,
- Cooling rack
- Knife or cake leveler
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 6 cups fresh or frozen strawberries hulled, thawed if frozen
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- A pinch of salt
Vanilla Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 4 large egg whites room temperature
- 3/4 cup whole milk room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or 1 tsp if using unsalted butter preference adjusted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Vanilla Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened, 226g
- 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt adjust to taste
Instructions
- Start by making the strawberry filling. Put strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, water, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt into a saucepan. Cook it on medium heat while stirring continuously until it thickens like jam. Once done, set it aside and let it cool completely.
- Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch cake pans by greasing them well and lining them with parchment paper so the cakes don’t stick.
- Now prepare the dry mixture. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt together. Keep it aside for later.
- In a separate large bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. Add egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in milk and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything looks smooth and well combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in batches. Mix gently just until everything comes together doesn’t over mix or the cake will turn dense.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cakes cool completely.
- For the buttercream, beat the butter until soft and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Finally, assemble the cake. Place one cake layer down, spread strawberry filling and buttercream on top, then repeat with the next layer. Cover the whole cake with frosting and decorate it the way you like.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling
Calories: 520 calories | Sugar: 55 grams | Fat: 24 grams | Carbohydrates: 72 grams | Protein: 5 grams | Fiber: 2 grams | Sodium: 0.18 grams
Hello and welcome to All Recipe Make! I’m Julia, the creator behind this food and lifestyle blog, and I’m so glad you’re here. With four years of experience developing recipes, I love crafting dishes that are delicious, fun, and nourishing. Here, you’ll discover a wide range of recipes from vegan and gluten-free options to simple, budget-friendly meals. My aim is to help you bring something special to your table without spending a fortune. Thanks for stopping by I hope you enjoy exploring these recipes as much as I enjoy creating and sharing them!