The first slice of Strawberry Custard Delight Cake feels like a warm hug on a sunny afternoon. Incapsulating the essence of homemade comfort, this dessert beautifully combines fluffy cake layers with a smooth custard and vibrant strawberries that cheerfully pop with every bite. It’s a vegetarian treat that’s more than just a cake; it’s an experience waiting to be shared at gatherings or on a quiet evening at home. With its straightforward preparation and a flavor profile that’s sure to impress guests and family alike, this cake can easily go from a special occasion to an everyday indulgence. Are you ready to create something spectacularly delicious that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Why is Strawberry Custard Delight Cake unforgettable?
Irresistible Flavors: The blend of sweet strawberries and creamy custard creates a taste that feels like a celebration of summer in every bite.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake without a fuss, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch strawberries for other fruits, or even try a luscious almond cream instead of custard—tailoring it to your family’s preferences!
Visually Stunning: Each layer of this cake displays vibrant strawberry hues against a rich custard backdrop, making it not only delicious but a feast for the eyes.
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, family gathering, or a cozy night in, this cake appeals to everyone and leaves a lasting impression. For more fruity dessert inspiration, check out our delightful Strawberry Custard Cake and indulge in a classic that’s just as luscious!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for creating the cake base.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the cake rises perfectly.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and flavor; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; can be substituted with a lower-calorie sugar alternative if desired.
• Eggs – Serves as a binding and leavening agent; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a rich aroma and a depth of flavor.
• Milk – Contributes to moisture; whole milk gives creaminess, but almond milk works for a dairy-free variant.
For the Custard
• Sugar – Sweetens the custard; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Cornstarch – A thickening agent that’s essential for achieving the right custard consistency.
• Egg Yolks – Adds richness to the custard for a creamy texture.
• Whole Milk – The base for the custard; consider reduced-fat milk for a lighter choice.
For the Filling and Garnish
• Fresh Strawberries – Bursting with flavor and brighten up the cake; frozen strawberries work too, just thaw and drain them well before use.
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you are ready to create a Strawberry Custard Delight Cake that’s not just a dessert but a delightful experience to be savored!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease two 9-inch round cake pans with unsalted butter, making sure to cover the sides and bottoms thoroughly. Then, lightly dust each pan with flour, tapping out any excess. This will ensure your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake comes out easily and maintains a lovely shape.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture will serve as a foundation for the cake, combining essential components. Be sure to mix these thoroughly until evenly combined; the fluffy texture of your cake depends on this step. Set aside to prepare for the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, appearing pale in color. This step is essential for adding air to your batter, ensuring your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is perfectly light and airy.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in two large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened, with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. This will contribute to the overall richness and flavor of your cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gently alternate adding the flour mixture and 1 cup of milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined, ensuring no dry streaks remain. Take care not to overmix; you want a smooth, lump-free batter that’s slightly thickened. This process creates the delicious base for your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake, enjoying the sweet aroma filling your kitchen. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans.
Step 7: Cool and Slice the Cakes
Once the cake layers have cooled in the pans for about 10 minutes, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This should take an additional 30-40 minutes. Once cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each layer in half horizontally. This creates four layers that will later be filled with the luscious custard and strawberries.
Step 8: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm 2 cups of whole milk until just steaming. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 4 large egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly, then return it all to the saucepan. Cook while stirring until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 9: Layer the Cake
To assemble your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of custard on top, followed by a layer of sliced fresh strawberries. Repeat this process with each cake layer, finishing with custard on the top layer. Top with additional strawberries and whipped cream for the ultimate presentation, ensuring a delightful visual feast.
Step 10: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover your assembled cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This chilling period not only enhances the taste but also helps the cake set properly. As you wait, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the moment you can slice into your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist while retaining the delicious custard and strawberry flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen cake to the fridge overnight to defrost. This ensures the texture remains intact and the flavors are preserved.
Reheating: If you prefer, you can serve individual slices at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Custard Delight Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture and fluffiness. Additionally, the custard can also be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just keep it covered to prevent a skin from forming. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the custard and strawberries between the cake layers, and chill the assembled cake for 1-2 hours. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious and ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking and customize this delightful cake just the way you like it!
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Berry Bonanza: Replace strawberries with mixed berries like raspberries and blueberries for a delightful medley of flavors. Each bite becomes an explosion of fruity freshness that everyone will adore.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make the cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. This small change doesn’t compromise the taste or texture, allowing all to indulge without worry.
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Nutty Twist: Introduce a subtle almond flavor by using almond extract instead of vanilla. This adds a lovely nutty depth to the cake and custard that beautifully complements the strawberries.
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Citrus Surprise: Add lemon or orange zest to the custard for a refreshing citrus twist. This brightens the flavors and complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent upgrade, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the assembled cake. It adds a rich, luxurious touch that pairs wonderfully with the fruity layers.
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Frozen Treat: Transform this cake into a refreshing ice cream cake by layering it with strawberry or vanilla ice cream instead of custard. This twist makes for a perfect summer dessert that’s sure to wow!
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Vegan Delight: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut milk in the custard for a vegan-friendly version. You won’t lose any creaminess, making it a delightful treat for everyone.
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Whipped Cream Layers: Add fluffy whipped cream between the cake layers alongside the custard for an indulgent texture. It enhances the creaminess and adds a lightness that melts in your mouth.
Embrace these variations to make the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake your own masterpiece! And if you’re craving more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out our scrumptious Angel Cake Churro for another delightful treat that’ll make your taste buds dance!
What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
The perfect meal accompaniment enhances your dessert experience, bringing out flavors and adding delightful contrasts.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream elevates each slice, adding a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the cake’s flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing introduces a creamy texture and additional sweetness that harmonizes with the fruity layers of the cake. Picture a warm day, enjoying a scoop alongside your slice; it’s pure bliss.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the strawberry sweetness with a bright, aromatic finish, taking your dessert to the next level.
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Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate, acting as a contrast to the rich custard and cake layers, beautifully balancing the overall sweetness.
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Chocolate Shavings: For the chocolate lovers out there, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings adds a decadent touch, bringing a rich depth to the dessert experience.
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Sparkling Water: A glass of chilled sparkling water with a twist of lemon cleanses the palate and prepares you for another delightful bite, enhancing your enjoyment of the cake’s fluffy layers.
With these tasty accompaniments, your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake will shine even brighter at any gathering!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This helps create a fluffy texture by incorporating air effectively during mixing.
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Don’t Overmix: After adding flour, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop as soon as the batter is just combined and smooth.
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Cool Completely: Let the cake layers cool in the pans before slicing. This prevents the custard from melting and ensures clean, beautiful layers for your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
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Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1-2 hours. This waiting time allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste experience.
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Experiment with Fruits: If you’re craving variety, swap strawberries for other berries or fruits. Adjusting your filling makes each Strawberry Custard Delight Cake uniquely delightful!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red with a shiny surface. They should be firm and fragrant, indicating sweetness. Avoid any with dark spots or mold, as these can indicate overripeness. Choosing organic strawberries when possible can enhance both flavor and health benefits!
How should I store leftover Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
You can store your leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your cake, allow it to cool completely after assembly. Then, wrap the entire cake in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s snugly covered. Follow up with aluminum foil to provide extra protection against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This process helps to retain its creamy texture and fruity flavor.
What if my custard doesn’t thicken properly?
If your custard doesn’t thicken, it may be due to not cooking it long enough. To troubleshoot, return the mixture to the heat and continue stirring on medium heat until it thickens. Remember, the key is patience; it usually takes about 5-7 minutes of constant stirring to achieve the right consistency. If it gets too thick, you can always add a small amount of warm milk to loosen it, but be cautious not to overdo it.
Can I make this cake ahead of time for a gathering?
Absolutely! You can make your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake a day ahead of your gathering. Simply prepare the cake, layer it with custard and strawberries, and chill it in the refrigerator overnight. This not only allows for easier preparation on the day of the event but also helps the flavors meld beautifully for a more delicious taste experience!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is vegetarian-friendly. For those avoiding eggs, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp of water equals one egg). Additionally, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk can replace whole milk in the recipe, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant guests or those on a dairy-free diet.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake: A Slice of Summer Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with unsalted butter and dust with flour.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes.
- Turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely, then slice each layer in half horizontally.
- In a saucepan, warm the whole milk until just steaming.
- In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk, whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- To assemble, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread with custard, then top with sliced strawberries. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Finish with custard on the top layer and additional strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
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