π Strawberry Cream Two-Layer Square Cake
A light, fluffy vanilla cake layered with fresh strawberries and a cloud-like whipped cream filling. Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or a dreamy summer dessert!
π Ingredients
π§ For the Cake:
β’ 1 ΒΎ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
β’ 1 Β½ tsp baking powder
β’ Β½ tsp baking soda
β’ ΒΌ tsp salt
β’ Β½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
β’ 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
β’ 3 large eggs
β’ 1 tsp vanilla extract
β’ ΒΎ cup (180ml) milk (room temperature)
β’ 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar (optional, for extra softness)
π For the Strawberry Cream Filling:
β’ 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (cold)
β’ 3 tbsp powdered sugar (or to taste)
β’ 1 tsp vanilla extract
β’ 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, finely chopped
β’ Optional: Β½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer filling
π° For Assembly & Topping:
β’ Β½ cup strawberry jam (optional, for layering)
β’ Extra sliced strawberries for decoration
β’ Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Bake the Cake Layers:
β’ Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
β’ Grease and line two 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) square baking pans.
β’ In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
β’ In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2β3 minutes).
β’ Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract.
β’ Alternately add dry ingredients and milk, mixing gently until smooth.
β’ Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and smooth the tops.
β’ Bake for 22β28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
β’ Cool completely before assembling.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Cream:
β’ In a cold mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
β’ Gently fold in the chopped strawberries (and mascarpone/cream cheese if using).
β’ Chill until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Cake:
β’ Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
β’ Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam (optional), then add a generous layer of strawberry cream.
β’ Place the second cake layer on top.
β’ Optionally spread more cream on top, or keep it simple with just a dusting of powdered sugar.
β’ Decorate with fresh strawberry slices.
π Serving Tips:
β’ Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing for clean layers.
β’ Best enjoyed the same day or within 24 hours for freshness.