Strawberry And Cream Layer Cake Claire Saffitz
If you're a fan of desserts, then you're probably already familiar with Claire Saffitz. She's the host of the popular YouTube series, Bon Appétit's "Gourmet Makes," where she recreates classic snacks and treats from scratch. But did you know that Claire is also an accomplished pastry chef? Her strawberry and cream layer cake is a perfect example of her talent.
The History of Layer Cakes
Layer cakes have been a popular dessert in the United States since the 19th century. The first layer cakes were simple affairs, with just a few layers of cake and frosting. But over time, bakers began experimenting with different flavors and decorations, and layer cakes became increasingly elaborate.
The Ingredients
The strawberry and cream layer cake is made with a few simple ingredients, but they come together to create a dessert that is both elegant and delicious. The cake layers are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, while the filling is a mixture of fresh strawberries and whipped cream. The frosting is a classic buttercream, made with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
The Recipe
Here is Claire Saffitz's recipe for strawberry and cream layer cake:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 recipe buttercream frosting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the vanilla.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans.
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Fold in the sliced strawberries.
- To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with 1/3 of the strawberry cream mixture. Repeat with the remaining layers and cream mixture.
- Frost the outside of the cake with buttercream frosting. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
The Presentation
The strawberry and cream layer cake is a beautiful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The layers of cake and cream create a stunning contrast of colors and textures, while the fresh strawberries add a pop of color and flavor. To make the presentation even more impressive, you can garnish the cake with additional strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
The Final Thoughts
Claire Saffitz's strawberry and cream layer cake is a delicious and impressive dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its layers of moist cake, sweet cream, and fresh strawberries, it's a dessert that is both beautiful and delicious. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this cake is a perfect choice.