Imagine slicing into a decadent cake, where layers of fluffy vanilla sponge cradle luscious strawberries and silky mascarpone cream. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses with sweet promises of indulgence. Each bite delivers a burst of juicy fruitiness, perfectly balanced by the rich creaminess that leaves you craving more.
This Irresistible Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake with Mascarpone embodies celebration, perfect for birthday parties or spontaneous gatherings where friends and family unite to share delicious moments. As you prepare this cake, memories of laughter and joy will fill your kitchen—each layer tells a story of love and culinary adventure. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious desserts recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means anyone can become a pastry chef in their own home
- This cake features a delightful balance of flavors that dance on your palate
- Its stunning visual appeal makes it the star of any gathering or occasion
- Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because you deserve cake!
Baking this cake brought back memories of my sister’s birthday; her eyes lit up when she took the first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A versatile choice for the cake layers; sifting helps create a lighter texture.
- Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to achieve that perfect rise.
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugar.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while brown sugar can enhance moisture.
- Eggs: Large eggs work best; they provide structure and richness to the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavor; avoid imitation for best results.
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor in every slice.
- Mascarpone Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness; it’s essential for the filling and frosting.
- Heavy Cream: Whipping cream adds fluffiness to your frosting; chill it before whipping.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare Baking Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder until combined. The mixture should be light and airy—this ensures fluffy layers.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You want it to look pale yellow and feel airy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, blending well after each addition. Add vanilla extract for that signature flavor boost.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture while alternating with milk until just combined. Mix until no dry pockets remain but avoid over-mixing—the batter should be smooth yet airy.
Bake Layers Until Golden Brown : Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top—use a toothpick inserted into the center to check doneness; it should come out clean.
Cool Cakes Before Frosting : Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Allow them to cool completely before frosting—this prevents melting mascarpone cream!
Now you’re ready to assemble this beautiful masterpiece!
Enjoy crafting this Irresistible Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake with Mascarpone that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- This irresistible strawberry vanilla layer cake with mascarpone is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors
- The luscious strawberries and rich mascarpone create a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, bringing smiles and sweet memories to your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the layers first, allowing them to cool while preparing the mascarpone frosting. This sequencing saves time and ensures everything is ready for assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap strawberries for raspberries or add lemon zest to the frosting for a zesty twist. These changes can elevate your cake’s flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy chilled or let it come to room temperature before serving again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For ultimate flavor, use fresh strawberries at their peak ripeness
- Ensure your butter is softened before mixing for a smooth batter texture
- When frosting, work quickly to prevent the mascarpone from melting too much
It was my niece’s birthday when I first made this cake, and her eyes lit up with joy. Watching her take that first bite was priceless—it’s moments like these that make baking so rewarding!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?
Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide better texture and flavor.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend to suit dietary needs.
What’s the best way to layer the cake?
Ensure each layer is level and spread frosting evenly between layers for stability.
Irresistible Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake with Mascarpone
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Strawberry Vanilla Layer Cake with Mascarpone, a beautifully layered dessert that combines fluffy vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries, and rich mascarpone cream. Perfect for birthdays or any celebration, this cake not only pleases the palate but also brings joy to every gathering. With its stunning appearance and balanced flavors, it’s a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk together the flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool cakes for 10 minutes in pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream with mascarpone until smooth; frost cooled layers and top with sliced strawberries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg