Vanilla Strawberry Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Who doesn't love a good cake? Especially one that is moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavors. And when it comes to cakes, vanilla and strawberry are two flavors that not only complement each other but also make for a visually stunning dessert. Add some cream cheese frosting to the mix, and you have got yourself a winner. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the world of vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting - its history, recipe, variations, and tips to nail it every single time. So, let's get started.
The Origin of Vanilla Strawberry Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
The exact origin of this cake is unknown, but it is safe to assume that it originated in the United States, given the popularity of vanilla, strawberry, and cream cheese frosting in American desserts. Vanilla, a flavor derived from the orchids of the genus Vanilla, has been used in desserts since the 19th century. Strawberries, on the other hand, have been cultivated for over 2000 years and were first used in desserts in ancient Rome. Cream cheese frosting, a tangy and creamy frosting made with cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, is believed to have been invented in the United States in the 19th century.
It is not clear when the three elements were combined to make the vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting, but it is likely that it happened in the 20th century when cakes became more elaborate and flavors were experimented with.
The Recipe for Vanilla Strawberry Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Now that we know the history of the cake let's move on to the fun part - the recipe. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a delicious vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups diced fresh strawberries
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 8-inch (20cm) cake pans with butter and dust with flour.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add the softened butter and mix with an electric mixer until the mixture is crumbly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in the diced strawberries with a rubber spatula.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to thin it out to the desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting on top of one cake, then place the second cake on top of the frosting.
- Spread the remaining frosting on top of the second cake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve.
And that's it. Your vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is ready to be devoured.
Variations of Vanilla Strawberry Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
While the classic recipe for vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is delicious on its own, there are several variations that you can try to switch things up:
- Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Replace the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries.
- Make mini cupcakes instead of a full cake for a bite-sized dessert.
- Top the cake with toasted coconut flakes for some crunch.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Vanilla Strawberry Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
While the recipe may seem simple, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you bake the perfect vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting:
- Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking.
- Use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones for a better texture and flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter as it can make the cake tough.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, and if it's too thick, add more milk.
Conclusion
Vanilla strawberry cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. With its moist and fluffy texture, burst of flavors, and creamy frosting, it is no wonder that this cake has become a classic in American desserts. So, what are you waiting for? Try out this recipe today and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.