This Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy layers, fresh strawberry compote, and creamy vanilla buttercream, this cake is sure to impress your guests. It’s versatile enough for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence. The balanced flavors and textures make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Fillings
- How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Step 6: Assemble Your Cake
- How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Classic Slice
- Layered Dessert Cups
- Afternoon Tea Delight
- Birthday Celebration
- Picnic Treat
- Cake Pops
- How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling so special?
- Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
- How do I customize my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?
- What is the best way to decorate my Moist Vanilla Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The combination of buttermilk and oils ensures that each bite of the cake is soft and tender.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this bakery-style cake without stress.
- Flavorful Layers: The blend of vanilla and almond extracts brings a unique depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Fresh Strawberry Filling: Using homemade strawberry compote adds freshness and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cake.
- Versatile Design: This cake can be customized for various occasions, allowing you to decorate it as you please.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready makes the process enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (6 or 8)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing for a light and airy batter, which contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
- Cake pans: Choose the right size for even baking; they help achieve those perfect layers you’ll need for stacking.
- Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without becoming soggy, preserving their fluffiness.

Ingredients
To make this delicious Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling, you’ll need:
For the Cake
- 200 grams (1 1/2 cups) All-Purpose Flour (I use Gold Medal)
- 2 Tablespoons Instant Clearjel or 3 Tablespoons White Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Almond Extract or additional Vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- 200 grams (1 cup) Sugar
- 1 stick (4 oz) Salted Butter (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup
- 1 large Egg(s)
- 2 Egg Whites
- 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
For the Fillings
- 1 x batch prepared Strawberry Compote
- 1 x batch prepared Vanilla Bakery Buttercream Frosting
How to Make Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your chosen cake pans to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine all-purpose flour, Instant Clearjel or pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
* Whisk together until well blended.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
* Mix buttermilk, water, vanilla extract, almond extract, apple cider vinegar, sugar, softened butter, vegetable oil, light corn syrup, whole egg(s), egg whites, and cream of tartar.
* Beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
* Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans:
* Bake in preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
* Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Assemble Your Cake
Once cooled:
* Place one layer on your serving plate. Spread strawberry compote on top.
* Add another layer on top and repeat with more compote if desired. Top with final layer and frost generously with vanilla buttercream.
Enjoy your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling at your next gathering!
How to Serve Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Serving your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake, making it perfect for any occasion.
Classic Slice
- A traditional slice of vanilla cake paired with fresh strawberries on the side enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing touch.
Layered Dessert Cups
- Crumble pieces of the cake into dessert cups, layer with strawberry compote and vanilla buttercream, and top with whipped cream for an elegant treat.
Afternoon Tea Delight
- Serve small slices alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a charming afternoon snack. The combination is sure to impress your guests.
Birthday Celebration
- Decorate the cake with additional fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This makes for a festive presentation at any birthday party.
Picnic Treat
- Pack slices of the cake in individual containers for a perfect picnic dessert. Pairing it with lemonade will make it even more enjoyable outdoors.
Cake Pops
- Transform leftover cake into cake pops by crumbling the cake, mixing it with frosting, and coating in chocolate. This fun version is great for kids’ parties!
How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
To ensure your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
- Measure flour correctly: Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off. Avoid packing it down to ensure you don’t end up with a dry cake.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than light and fluffy layers.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when the cake is ready.
- Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Cool completely before adding frosting for best results.
- Store properly: If not serving immediately, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
Pairing side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement your Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a classic pairing, providing a delicious contrast in temperature.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream served on top or alongside offers a fluffy texture that pairs well with strawberries.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cake slices for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
- Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your overall tasting experience.
- Cheese Platter: Offering mild cheeses can balance sweetness while providing savory notes that complement the cake’s flavors.
- Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and berries in cups for a crunchy contrast that also introduces healthy elements to your dessert table.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing drinks pair wonderfully with sweet desserts, helping balance flavors on warm days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the room temperature ingredients – Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can create a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Not measuring flour correctly – Packing flour into the measuring cup can lead to an overly dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Ignoring oven temperature – An incorrect oven temperature can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
- Underbaking the cake – Removing the cake too early can leave it gooey in the center. Test with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling so special?
This cake is loved for its soft texture and rich vanilla flavor, perfectly complemented by fresh strawberry filling.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them first before making the compote.
How do I customize my Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling?
You can customize the flavors by adding different extracts or fillings like raspberry or lemon curd.
What is the best way to decorate my Moist Vanilla Cake?
Try using fresh strawberries on top along with whipped cream or additional buttercream for an elegant touch.
Final Thoughts
The Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by changing flavors or fillings according to your preference. Whether it’s for a birthday, celebration, or just because you love cake, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try!
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Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Moist Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Filling. This cake features perfectly fluffy layers, a luscious homemade strawberry compote, and a silky vanilla buttercream frosting, making it an ideal treat for any occasion—be it birthdays, celebrations, or simply a sweet moment to enjoy. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests raving. With straightforward preparation steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-style results at home.
Ingredients
- 200 grams (1 1/2 cups) All-Purpose Flour
- 2 Tablespoons Instant Clearjel or 3 Tablespoons White Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Buttermilk
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Almond Extract or additional Vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- 200 grams (1 cup) Sugar
- 1 stick (4 oz) Salted Butter (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup
- 1 large Egg(s)
- 2 Egg Whites
- 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
- 1 x batch prepared Strawberry Compote
- 1 x batch prepared Vanilla Bakery Buttercream Frosting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and Instant Clearjel or pudding mix.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, water, vanilla and almond extracts, vinegar, sugar, softened butter, oil, corn syrup, eggs, egg whites, and cream of tartar until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just mixed.
- Divide the batter between the pans and bake for about 28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling before layering with strawberry compote and frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg