Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake

Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake Recipe - Delicious Dessert Option for Any Occasion!

| Servings: 8

Introduction

Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the fresh and juicy flavors of strawberries with a rich and creamy filling. This cake is perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet treat for yourself.

History

The combination of strawberries and cream has been a classic dessert pairing for centuries. This cake takes that classic flavor combination to the next level with its light and fluffy cake layers and decadent cream cheese filling.

Ingredients

1.5 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
0.75 tsp salt
0.33 cups vegetable oil
4 large eggs, separated
1.5 tsp vanilla
1.5 tsp lemon juice
0.25 tsp cream of tartar
2 qt (1.89 liters) strawberries
0.25 cups strawberry jelly, melted

Filling

2 tsp unflavored gelatin
8 oz (227 g) package cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp sugar
2 cups heavy cream

How to prepare

Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Coat the bottoms of 2 round cake pans with cooking spray.
Line the pans with wax paper and coat the paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the first 4 ingredients.
In a second bowl, whisk together the oil, egg yolks, 0.5 cup of cold water, vanilla, and lemon juice.
Let the mixture sit for 3 minutes, then stir the oil mixture into the flour mixture until blended. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Fold one third of the beaten egg whites into the flour mixture, then fold in the remaining egg whites.
Divide the batter between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the cakes are done.
Invert the cakes from the pans and remove the wax paper. Return them to right side up.
Slice one of the cake layers in half, and repeat with the second layer.
Slice 6 cups of the berries and toss them in a bowl with 2 tbsp of jelly.
Place one cake layer on a pedestal and top it with 1.5 cups of the filling.

Filling

Combine the gelatin and 2 tbsp of cool water in a bowl. Let it stand for 3 minutes.
Microwave the mixture on high for 15 seconds or until the gelatin is melted.
Stir until the mixture is smooth, then let it cool slightly.
Combine the cream cheese and sugar in a bowl and beat until smooth.
Add the cream and continue to beat until it becomes very foamy.
Add the gelatin and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Use the filling immediately to fill the layers of the cake.
Layer the filling with 0.75 cup of sliced berries.
Repeat this process twice more, then top with the final cake layer.
Cut the remaining berries in half and toss them with the remaining jelly.
Spread the remaining filling on top of the cake.
Top with strawberries and serve.

Variations

Try using different berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, in place of strawberries for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and airy cake.

- Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the batter to maintain the cake's fluffy texture.

- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but frozen strawberries can also be used in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.

- Folding the egg whites into the batter gently will help maintain the cake's airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use a different flavor of jelly, such as raspberry or apricot, in place of the strawberry jelly.

- If you don't have cream of tartar, you can use a pinch of salt in the egg whites instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cake layers and filling ahead of time and assemble the cake just before serving for a stress-free dessert option.

Presentation Ideas

Top the cake with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake with a glass of champagne or a cup of hot tea for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and heavy cream) and eggs.

Summary

Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in fats and carbohydrates, but also provides some essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its light and fluffy cake layers, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries, this cake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the sweet aroma of strawberries and cream filled the air, and I knew I had to learn how to make her famous Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear," she said, as she handed me a piece of her cake. The first bite was pure heaven - the light and fluffy cake, the sweet strawberries, and the creamy frosting all melding together in perfect harmony.

"Martha, this is incredible! I must know your secret," I exclaimed, my taste buds singing with delight.

Martha laughed and patted my hand. "Oh, it's nothing special, my dear. Just a simple recipe that has been passed down through my family for generations. Would you like me to teach you how to make it?"

Of course, I jumped at the chance. Martha took me under her wing that day, showing me step by step how to make her Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake. From baking the perfect sponge cake to whipping up a silky smooth cream frosting, every detail was carefully explained and demonstrated.

As we worked in her cozy kitchen, Martha shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a cherished family tradition, a secret passed down through the generations.

I listened intently, soaking up every word and technique as if I were a sponge. I could see the love and pride in Martha's eyes as she showed me the ropes, and I knew that this cake held a special place in her heart.

After several hours of baking, mixing, and decorating, the cake was finally complete. It looked like a work of art, with layers of sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and creamy frosting stacked high and topped with a sprinkling of sugar.

I couldn't wait to taste it, and when I did, I was transported to a world of pure bliss. The flavors were perfect - not too sweet, not too rich, just right. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from a master like Martha.

From that day on, I made Martha's Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake a staple in my own kitchen. I practiced and perfected the recipe, experimenting with different variations and additions to make it my own.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this beloved cake. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to Martha and her family, a bond formed through the love of baking and sharing good food.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake for a special occasion, I can't help but smile. The memories of that day with Martha are still fresh in my mind, and I am grateful for the gift of her friendship and mentorship.

As I take the cake out of the oven and let it cool, I know that it will bring joy and delight to all who taste it. And as I set the table and invite my loved ones to join me, I know that Martha's spirit is with us, sharing in the love and laughter that good food always brings.

So, here's to Martha and her Strawberries 'n' Cream Cake - a recipe that has stood the test of time and brought joy to so many. May it continue to be shared and enjoyed for generations to come, a symbol of love, tradition, and the simple pleasures of life.