Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its bold vanilla flavor, thanks to the use of vanilla bean paste, which adds depth and specks of real vanilla throughout the cake. The strawberry cream cheese frosting provides a tangy sweetness that complements the cake’s richness, while also offering a visually stunning pale pink color. Plus, this recipe is designed for smaller servings, making it ideal for couples or small gatherings without leftover temptations.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cake flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Rodelle vanilla bean paste
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup sour cream

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla bean paste.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, puree fresh strawberries and beat with cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
9. Frost the cooled cake layers generously with the strawberry cream cheese frosting.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields a 6-inch layer cake, which serves approximately 6-8 people.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Bake time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Flavored Frosting: Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Add-ins: For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, bring the cake to room temperature before serving. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract for the vanilla bean paste. Use 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for every 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost the cake just before serving.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Let thaw at room temperature before frosting.

4. Can I use frozen strawberries for the frosting?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if pureed and drained well to remove excess liquid.

5. How do I prevent my cake from sinking in the middle?

Ensure you measure your ingredients correctly and avoid overmixing the batter. Bake at the proper temperature and time, especially if you are baking at high altitudes.

6. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with many cakes, but you could try buttercream, whipped cream, or even chocolate ganache if you prefer.

7. Why is the frosting pink?

The pink color comes from the natural strawberry puree mixed into the frosting, without the need for artificial food coloring.

8. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?

Grease the cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to help the cake come out easily.

9. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Cake flour provides a lighter, fluffier texture. However, you can substitute with all-purpose flour if necessary, but the texture may not be as soft.

10. How can I adjust this recipe for a larger cake?

To make a larger cake, you can double or triple the ingredients and use larger pans. Make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Vanilla Bean Layer Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and elegant dessert that will impress anyone you serve it to. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it ideal for any special occasion or a treat to enjoy with loved ones. Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day or simply looking for a delicious cake to make, this recipe will not disappoint!