The gleaming layers of my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake dazzled everyone at last weekend’s family gathering, turning a typical afternoon into a celebration. With its light, fluffy cake harmonizing with the rich custard and fresh strawberries, this dessert doesn’t just satisfy the sweet tooth; it brings a vibrant burst of joy to any occasion. One of the best aspects of this strawberry delight is its simplicity—quick to prepare but impressive enough to steal the spotlight at any get-together. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect choice for gatherings where everyone can indulge. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and create a cake that not only tastes divine but looks stunning too? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why Choose Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Versatile Flavors: The delightful combination of creamy custard and fresh strawberries makes every bite a flavor explosion.
Simplicity Redefined: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a success.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a fancy weeknight treat, this cake always impresses.
Great for Sharing: Bring it to potlucks or family gatherings, and watch it disappear in no time, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!
Delightful Presentation: Its stunning layers create an eye-catching centerpiece, much like our Cinnamon German Pancake or Croissant Breakfast Bake.
Room for Creativity: Feel free to mix it up by trying out different berries or adding citrus zest for a unique twist!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; no substitutions recommended.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake, creating a tender crumb.
• Eggs – Bind ingredients and add moisture; can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a rich aroma and flavor to the cake.
• Whole Milk – Contributes to the cake’s moisture and creaminess; almond milk works for dairy-free.
For the Custard
• Cornstarch – Thickens the custard for a silky texture.
• Egg Yolks – Provide richness and a smooth custard; plant-based custard can be used for a vegan alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard, ensuring a delectable flavor.
• Whole Milk – Essential for a creamy custard; can switch to almond milk for a dairy-free version.
For the Topping
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds freshness and natural sweetness; can substitute with thawed frozen strawberries if fresh isn’t available.
With these Strawberry Custard Delight Cake ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a dessert that will surely bring smiles to faces during any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them well with butter or cooking spray, then dust them lightly with flour. This step is crucial for preventing the cake from sticking, ensuring your gorgeous Strawberry Custard Delight Cake releases perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture forms the base of your cake, so blend it well. The goal is to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder, which is essential for achieving a light, fluffy texture in your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 5 minutes. This step is vital as it incorporates air into the batter, making your cake soft and airy. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack and add three eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. This ensures your eggs are uniformly blended for added moisture and structure in the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. Don’t rush this step; you want a smooth, creamy texture before moving on.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually alternately add the flour mixture and 1 cup of whole milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on a low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This balance of wet and dry ensures a tender crumb, perfect for your delightful layers of cake and custard.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Carefully place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges have begun to slightly pull away from the pan. Once baked, remove them from the oven.
Step 7: Cool the Cake Layers
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial as it prevents soggy layers when you assemble your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. Make sure the cakes are entirely cool before you proceed to the custard and assembly steps.
Step 8: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm 2 cups of whole milk until just beginning to steam. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and four egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring continuously, until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 9: Layer the Cake
Once your custard has cooled to room temperature, slice each cooled cake layer in half horizontally, creating four thinner layers. On a serving plate, begin layering by placing one cake layer down, spreading a generous portion of custard over it, and then adding a layer of sliced fresh strawberries. Repeat this process until all layers are assembled, ensuring the final layer is a cake layer on top.
Step 10: Finish and Chill the Cake
Spread the remaining custard on top of the final cake layer and garnish with halved strawberries for an elegant touch. Place the assembled Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1–2 hours. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each slice even more delightful when served.
What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Transform your delightful dessert into a well-rounded meal experience with these perfect pairings.
-
Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of melons, berries, and citrus complements the rich custard layers beautifully.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing with the cake’s flavors enhances its sweetness while adding a creamy, dreamy texture.
-
Sparkling Water with Lime: A zesty drink that cuts through the cake’s richness; it adds a refreshing touch to each bite.
-
Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich flavors of coffee contrast the cake’s sweetness, providing a satisfying end to your meal.
-
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Elevate the dessert experience by drizzling warm chocolate over each slice, enriching the flavor profile.
-
Whipped Cream Clouds: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds an airy finish that pairs well with the cake’s creamy custard and strawberries.
-
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a delightful savory balance to the sweet dessert. Enjoy the textures and flavors together!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
-
Soften Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. It makes mixing easier, leading to a light cake.
-
Cool Completely: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before assembling. This prevents the custard from making the layers soggy.
-
Chill for Flavor: Don’t skip the chilling step after assembling the cake! Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the final taste of your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
-
Proper Measuring: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Scooping directly can compact it, resulting in a denser cake.
-
Layering Technique: When layering, spread the custard evenly to ensure each slice has a delicious bite of filling.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries when possible. They provide natural sweetness and a vibrant flavor that elevates your dessert!
Make Ahead Options
This Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their moisture. The custard can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s covered to prevent a skin from forming. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cake with the custard and strawberries, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, and you’ll have a stunning and delicious dessert that’s just as impressive and freshly made!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake uniquely yours!
-
Berry Mix: Swap strawberries for a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a colorful and tangy flavor. The variety adds an exciting burst of flavors to each slice.
-
Citrus Zest: Mix in lemon or orange zest into the custard for a bright, zesty kick. It infuses your cake with a refreshing citrus aroma that will awaken your senses.
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and the egg yolks with a plant-based custard for a tasty vegan version. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice without missing out.
-
Flavored Frosting: Replace the custard with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert. It adds a layer of decadence and brings a new texture to the cake.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds or pecans between the layers for delightful texture and a nutty flavor. The crunch creates a satisfying contrast with the creaminess of the custard.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a luxurious finish. The combination of chocolate and strawberries is a classic that elevates the dessert to new heights.
-
Caramel Swirl: Add a layer of caramel sauce in between the cake and custard layers for added sweetness and a luscious, gooey consistency. It’s the perfect way to enhance those fabulous strawberry flavors.
-
Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for an intriguing, warm spice note. The subtle hint of spice pairs beautifully with the custard and strawberries.
These variations let you customize your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, perfect for any occasion or craving! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss our enchanting Grandmas Lemon Custard or the fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake. Feel free to get creative!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Fridge: Store leftover Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezer: To preserve the cake, freeze it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you’d like a warm slice, gently reheat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until the custard is slightly warmed.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best strawberries for the cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free of any dark spots or mold. It’s important to pick strawberries that are in peak ripeness for maximum sweetness and flavor, as underripe strawberries can taste sour and overripe ones will be mushy.
What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
The more the merrier! To keep your delicious cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will ensure the cake stays moist and the flavors remain vibrant. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze the cake, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then cover it with aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my custard doesn’t thicken properly?
If your custard isn’t thickening as it should, make sure you’re cooking it over medium heat and stirring continuously. If it seems too runny, you can whisk in a little more cornstarch mixed with a touch of cold milk, and return it to the heat until it thickens. Alternatively, if it has cooled down, you can reheat it gently while stirring to help it thicken.
Is this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake can be made vegetarian-friendly with simple swaps—for instance, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan option. You can also substitute the whole milk with almond milk and use a plant-based custard for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet. Always ensure to inform your guests of the ingredient changes!
Irresistible Strawberry Custard Delight Cake for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray and dust with flour.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add vanilla extract.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add flour mixture and whole milk alternately to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, warm the milk for the custard. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Gradually add warm milk to the egg mixture and then cook until thickened.
- Cool the custard to room temperature, then slice each cake layer in half horizontally for a total of four layers.
- Layer the cakes with custard and strawberries, ending with a cake layer on top. Spread remaining custard and top with halved strawberries.
- Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.
Leave a Reply