If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly balances creamy sweetness with fresh fruitiness, look no further than the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. This show-stopping cake layers tender, buttery cake with luscious vanilla custard and vibrant strawberries, creating a heavenly harmony of flavors and textures that will delight every bite. The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal centerpiece for celebrations or a special weekend indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the signature taste, texture, and beautiful presentation of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. From the fluffy cake layers to the smooth custard filling and the fresh strawberries that bring it all to life, these components are simple yet essential.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the soft, tender base of the cake layers.
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder: Ensures your cake layers rise perfectly light and fluffy.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping it brown beautifully.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and tender crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic note to the cake batter.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
- 2 cups whole milk (for custard filling): The creamy base for the luscious custard.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for custard filling): Sweetens the custard to perfection.
- 3 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the custard without lumps.
- 4 large egg yolks: Give the custard its silky richness and golden color.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for custard filling): Adds a glossy finish and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for custard filling): Infuses the custard with a fragrant touch.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced, plus whole for topping): Provide juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- Whipped cream (for decorating): Adds lightness and a creamy contrast to the cake.
How to Make Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake releases smoothly after baking. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt—this dry mixture is the foundation for a fluffy cake. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will give your cake its desirable airy texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time for even incorporation, then add vanilla for a lovely fragrance. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture to keep the batter smooth and homogenous. Divide the batter evenly between your pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before moving on.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard Filling
While the cakes cool, warm 2 cups of whole milk gently in a saucepan until just shy of boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and pale. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while constantly whisking to prevent scrambling. Transfer this combined mixture back to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a creamy custard. Take the custard off the heat, then stir in butter and vanilla, which enrich and enhance its flavor. Cover the custard directly with plastic wrap to avoid forming a skin and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Once your cake layers are cold, slice each horizontally to create four thin layers, which will make your cake more delicate and allow for even custard and strawberry coverage. Place the first layer on a cake plate, spread a thick layer of the custard, then sprinkle generously with diced strawberries—this layering invites the perfect balance of sweetness and fresh fruit in every bite. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, finishing with custard on top. Garnish the cake with halved fresh strawberries to add a stunning visual appeal and pipe whipped cream around the edges for an inviting, fluffy border. Chill the cake for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld for true delight.
How to Serve Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Garnishes
Adding fresh strawberries and whipped cream as garnishes not only improves the cake’s presentation but also provides a refreshing bite alongside the richness of the custard. Consider dusting a little powdered sugar or adding thin mint leaves for a pop of green and extra flair.
Side Dishes
The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed tea or a crisp glass of sparkling wine. A light fruit salad or lemon sorbet would also work nicely to complement the creamy texture and fruity notes of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering individual servings in clear glasses for an elegant trifle-style presentation, perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, assemble mini versions of this cake in cupcake liners for a fun, bite-sized treat that’s easy to serve at casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Custard Delight Cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the custard from drying out. Properly stored, it will keep delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This cake doesn’t freeze well because of the fresh custard and strawberries, which can become watery and compromise the texture. It’s best to enjoy the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake fresh or chilled rather than frozen.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature from the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out the best flavors without compromising texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and sweetness, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the custard and cake layers.
How long can I prepare the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in advance?
You can prepare and assemble the cake up to one day ahead of time. Chilling it overnight in the refrigerator allows the custard to set perfectly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. The eggs and dairy used are common ingredients in vegetarian baking.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works well, but check that the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s texture.
What can I use instead of whipped cream for decoration?
If you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar can be beautiful alternatives to traditional whipped cream while still providing an elegant finish.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is truly a joyful dessert to make and share. Its harmonious layers of moist cake, silky custard, and fresh strawberries make every bite a celebration of flavor and texture. I encourage you to try this lovely recipe—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite that friends and family will ask for again and again.
PrintStrawberry Custard Delight Cake
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is a luscious and visually appealing dessert featuring layers of moist vanilla cake filled with creamy custard and fresh strawberries, topped with whipped cream and strawberry halves. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions, this cake combines a tender crumb with rich custard and fruity freshness for a delightful treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Custard Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced (plus whole strawberries for topping)
- Whipped cream, for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy to create a smooth batter base.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
- Make the Custard Filling: In a saucepan, gently heat the whole milk until warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly pour the warm milk into this mixture, whisking constantly.
- Cook the Custard: Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens to a custard consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and let it cool.
- Slice Cake Layers: Once completely cooled, slice each cake layer horizontally to create four thin layers total.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of custard on top, then sprinkle with diced fresh strawberries. Repeat this layering process with the remaining cake layers, custard, and strawberries.
- Top and Decorate: Spread the remaining custard on top of the final layer. Arrange halved fresh strawberries as a garnish and pipe whipped cream around the edges for decoration.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and custard to set before serving.
Notes
- For best results, always use fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance flavor and texture.
- Chilling the cake after assembly intensifies the flavors and improves the consistency of the custard.
- This cake can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.