Strawberry Vanilla Spring Layers

The Strawberry Vanilla Spring Layers cake is a light and elegant dessert that celebrates the freshness of spring. With soft, fluffy vanilla cake layers, bursts of juicy strawberries, and a silky vanilla buttercream frosting, this cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness. It’s an ideal centerpiece for springtime gatherings, birthdays, or even a bridal shower.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly moist and tender cake layers

• Bright and fresh strawberry flavor in every bite

• Beautiful presentation with layers and fresh fruit garnish

• Versatile enough for any spring or summer celebration

• Made with simple, classic ingredients

• Can be prepared ahead of time for convenience

• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

• Customizable with flavor variations

• Elegant enough for special occasions

• Satisfying without being overly rich

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Vanilla Cake:
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
large eggs
fresh lemon juice
vanilla extract
bleached cake flour
strawberry-flavored gelatin
baking soda
table salt
whole buttermilk
fresh strawberries, chopped

For the Vanilla Buttercream:
unsalted butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
kosher salt
heavy whipping cream

For Garnish:
whole and halved fresh strawberries

Directions

1. Make the Cake Batter: Cream the butter until smooth, then gradually add sugar and beat until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, strawberry gelatin, baking soda, and salt.

3. Finish the Batter: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry mix. Fold in chopped strawberries.

4. Bake the Cakes: Divide batter into three greased and floured 8-inch cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 26–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

5. Make the Buttercream: Beat the butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and salt. Slowly add heavy cream and beat until fluffy.

6. Assemble the Cake: Layer the cakes with buttercream between each layer. Frost the top and sides evenly.

7. Decorate: Garnish with whole and halved strawberries as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Baking Time: 30 minutes

• Cooling and Assembly Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Add strawberry jam between the cake layers for extra berry flavor

• Swap vanilla buttercream with cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist

• Incorporate strawberry puree into the buttercream for a pink hue

• Add a hint of almond extract for added depth

• Use freeze-dried strawberry powder for concentrated flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

• Reheating/Serving: Bring cake to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure they are completely thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

How do I keep the cake layers even?

Use a kitchen scale to evenly divide the batter between pans and level the tops with a spatula.

Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. Bake the layers a day in advance and store them wrapped at room temperature. Assemble the day of serving.

Is it necessary to use cake flour?

Cake flour gives a finer texture. If unavailable, use all-purpose flour and remove 2 tablespoons per cup, replacing it with cornstarch.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes. Cream cheese frosting or strawberry buttercream are delicious alternatives.

How can I make the cake more pink?

Add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the batter for a more vibrant color.

Will this cake work in a different pan size?

Yes, but baking times may vary. Always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

You can, but homemade buttercream offers superior taste and texture.

What’s the best way to transport the cake?

Chill the cake slightly to firm up the frosting, then use a cake carrier for safe transportation.

Can I add fruit to the frosting?

Yes, but be cautious with moisture. Freeze-dried strawberries work well without thinning the frosting.

Conclusion

Strawberry Vanilla Spring Layers is a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With tender vanilla cake, vibrant strawberries, and smooth buttercream, it’s a recipe that highlights the best of seasonal flavors while remaining approachable and versatile. Whether for a brunch, birthday, or spring celebration, this cake is sure to impress every guest at the table.