As I prepare for a little gathering at home, the wafting aroma of baking cake fills the air, bringing back memories of carefree summer days. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, a show-stopping dessert that perfectly balances lightness and richness. Not only is this delightful creation simple to whip up, but it also showcases fresh strawberries, inviting everyone to join in the celebration. With its airy cake layers and creamy custard, this vegetarian dessert is the perfect way to elevate your day, whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself. Curious about how to make this vibrant cake? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Strawberry Custard Cake irresistible?
Easily customisable: You can swap fresh strawberries for any berry you like, making this cake perfect for any season or celebration.
Light yet rich: The airy layers coupled with creamy custard create a delightful contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
Crowd pleaser: Whether it’s a weekend get-together or a special celebration, this stunning cake is sure to impress friends and family.
Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a breathtaking dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect make-ahead option: You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, perfect for those busy days!
Elevate your dessert game with this stunning cake, and don’t forget to check out our tips for making the best whipped cream to top it off!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this stunning dessert:
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Formulates the base for your fluffy cake layers. Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; you can substitute it with plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve that light, airy texture.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture and structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic flavor to each bite.
- Whole Milk – Contributes to a tender cake crumb; almond or oat milk can be used for a non-dairy version.
For the Custard
- Sugar – Provides sweetness for your sumptuous custard filling.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the custard and gives it that creamy consistency.
- Egg Yolks – Enhance richness and aid in thickening the custard beautifully.
For the Layers
- Fresh Strawberries – Add delightful texture and flavor; feel free to swap with other fresh berries or use thawed frozen berries for convenience.
Now, let’s bring this delicious Strawberry Custard Delight Cake to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them thoroughly with unsalted butter or cooking spray. Dust the insides with all-purpose flour to prevent sticking, ensuring that you have a smooth release for your fluffy cake layers once they’re baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This blend is essential for the structure of your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, ensuring it rises beautifully. Take a moment to appreciate how these components will come together to create light and airy layers.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This is a crucial step that adds air into the batter for a delightful texture. Once well combined, carefully beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the aromatic vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing until just smooth after each addition. This technique ensures a tender crumb in your cake layers. Once fully combined, the batter should be glossy and pourable, ready for baking.
Step 5: Bake the Layers
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the layers; they should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
Step 6: Cool and Slice the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice each cake layer horizontally in half, creating four equal layers that will hold the luscious custard and strawberries.
Step 7: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk until it’s just about to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth. Slowly pour the heated milk into the egg mixture, stirring constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Begin assembling your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake by placing the first cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of the prepared custard over the layer, followed by a handful of diced fresh strawberries. Repeat the process with the remaining layers, finishing with custard on top and garnishing with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
To allow the flavors to meld beautifully, cover the cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving. This chilling period enhances the custard’s creaminess and makes slicing easier. When ready to enjoy, slice into this delightful Strawberry Custard Delight Cake and watch your loved ones be amazed at your creation!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
- Cream Thoroughly: Ensure the butter and sugar are creamed until light and fluffy; this step is vital for achieving a light cake texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool entirely before slicing; a warm cake can lead to messy assembly.
- Check Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cake during baking; over-baking can result in a dry texture.
- Layer Smartly: When assembling, use a pastry brush to moisten layers lightly with syrup or milk for extra moisture.
- Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving; it allows the custard and flavors to meld beautifully.
These helpful tips will ensure your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake turns out as delightful as it sounds!
What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Bring your gathering to life with delightful accompaniments that truly enhance the experience of this luscious dessert.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of mixed berries adds a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color that complements the cake’s sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: Indulge in a light dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess; it perfectly matches the cake’s airy structure.
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Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint brings a refreshing aromatic touch, elevating each bite while providing a lovely presentation.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate drizzle can create a decadent contrast that harmonizes with the custard and strawberries, satisfying any sweet tooth.
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Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of sorbet, especially in berry or lemon flavors, offers a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate and enhances the fruity notes of the cake.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve chilled iced tea or lemonade on the side; their tangy sweetness pairs beautifully with the soft, creamy cake.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso brings depth to the dessert’s sweetness, making for a splendid end to your meal.
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Mini Fruit Tarts: These can be delightful as a side treat, providing a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cake while featuring more fruity goodness.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations
Feel free to adapt this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and preferences!
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Berry Medley: Substitute fresh strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist. Mix and match your favorite berries for wonderful flavor combinations!
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing citrus flavor. This small change can really elevate the overall taste experience.
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Nutty Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the batter or as a layer for added crunch. The nutty flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: For a rich variation, use chocolate custard or whipped ganache between layers. Chocolate and strawberry is an iconic pair that never fails to impress!
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Savory Spin: Try a savory custard made with herbs like basil or mint for a unique, gourmet touch. It creates an unexpected yet delightful experience for your guests.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter and whole milk with plant-based options like coconut oil and almond milk for a delicious dairy-free version. Everyone can enjoy a slice!
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Spicy Kick: Throw in a pinch of cinnamon or even cayenne for a surprising warm undertone that enhances the flavors of the fruit and custard!
Now that you know how to customize your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, consider exploring other delicious dessert ideas like a perfect whipped cream or a delightful blueberry tart.
Make Ahead Options
This Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, ideal for busy cooks! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake them, let them cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The custard can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; to prevent a skin from forming, cover it directly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the cake with custard and strawberries, then chill for at least 1-2 hours before serving to ensure delightful flavor melds. With these make-ahead tips, your guests will enjoy a fresh-tasting, impressive dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Fridge: Store the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This refrigeration helps maintain the cake’s moisture and keeps the custard fresh.
Freezer: If you need to keep the cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best taste.
Reheating: If you want a warm slice, gently heat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This refreshes the flavors while keeping the custard creamy.
Assembly Considerations: Avoid freezing the fully assembled cake as the custard may lose its texture. Instead, freeze separate layers and assemble the cake fresh after thawing.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for the cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and plump. They should have a sweet aroma and green, fresh leaves. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these might be overripe and affect the flavor of your cake.
What is the best way to store any leftover cake?
Store your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the custard fresh. If you find yourself with some left over after a gathering, you’ll still get to enjoy delightful flavors!
Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the completely cooled layers of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the layers in the fridge overnight and assemble with custard and strawberries for that fresh taste.
What should I do if my custard is too thin?
If your custard is too thin, don’t worry! Simply return it to the heat and continue cooking while stirring gently until it thickens to your desired consistency. Make sure to cook it on low to avoid scorching, and keep an eye on it as it comes together. A good custard should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when layered in the cake.
Are there any allergens in this recipe I should consider?
Yes, this recipe contains common allergens like eggs and dairy (milk and butter). For those with egg allergies, you can experiment with egg replacers, and for dairy-free alternatives, use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk. Always double-check the labels to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs, and feel free to reach out if you need any alternative suggestions!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake: Your New Favorite Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with unsalted butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with whole milk, until just smooth.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice each cooled cake layer horizontally in half to create four layers.
- In a saucepan, warm the whole milk, then whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly pour the heated milk into the egg mixture and cook until the custard thickens.
- Assemble the cake by spreading custard and diced strawberries between the layers, finishing with custard on top and garnishing with strawberries.
- Cover the cake and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.