Introduction to Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Have you ever craved a dessert that’s not just delicious but also feels special with every bite? Look no further than the delightful Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting! This fluffy 6-inch cake is perfect for celebrating intimate occasions, like Valentine's Day or a cozy dinner for two. Its unique blend of flavors elevates it from an ordinary dessert to an extraordinary treat that’s bound to impress.
Why make this cake?
Imagine slicing into a perfectly baked vanilla bean cake, where each layer reveals those gorgeous flecks of real vanilla bean. When paired with the creamy, fruity strawberry frosting, it's like a burst of summertime in your mouth! Not only is this cake visually stunning, but it also checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment. Plus, the combination of buttery vanilla and tangy strawberry makes it a versatile choice for any gathering.
This recipe allows you to showcase your baking skills without needing advanced techniques, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Ready to get started? Let’s bake a cake that will make your taste buds sing! For a complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions, continue reading here.
Ingredients for Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
When it comes to baking a delicious Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need for each part of this delightful dessert.
Ingredients for the Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (you can also use cake flour for an even lighter texture)
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 3 teaspoon Rodelle vanilla bean paste (this will give your cake that exquisite vanilla flavor)
- ½ cup sour cream, full fat, at room temperature
- ½ cup milk, whole and at room temperature
Ingredients for the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, full fat, at room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust based on your desired sweetness and consistency)
- ¼ cup pureed, fresh strawberries (about 15 medium strawberries will do)
These simple yet high-quality ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering cake that’s perfect for a special occasion like Valentine's Day. Don't forget to check out where to source some of these ingredients, like Rodelle's Vanilla Bean Paste for that authentic flavor boost!
Preparing Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Baking a Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s an experience filled with delightful aromas and the joy of crafting something special. Let’s dive into the steps needed to create this mouthwatering dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or just because!
Preheat the oven and prepare the pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is crucial because it ensures that your cakes bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab three 6x2 inch cake pans. Grease them well and line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds to prevent sticking. Not sure how to make those rounds? Simply trace the bottom of your pan on parchment paper and cut them out. A quick spray of cooking oil atop the parchment will make removal a breeze once the cakes are baked.
Whisk and mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Taking the time to aerate these ingredients will help your cake achieve that coveted light and fluffy texture. Set aside this mixture; it’s the backbone of your Vanilla Bean Cake.
Cream the butter and sugar
Next, it’s time to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter for about one minute until it becomes light and fluffy. Incorporate the sugar and continue mixing on high for another two minutes. You’ll be amazed at how creamy this mixture becomes!
Incorporate the wet ingredients
Now for the fun part! Add in three large egg whites and 3 teaspoons of Rodelle vanilla bean paste. Mix well until combined. Then, bring in ½ cup of room temperature sour cream and ½ cup of milk, mixing on medium speed until everything is smooth and incorporated.
Combine the batter and pour into pans
Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Pour it in gradually while mixing to avoid lumps. Once blended, carefully pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, roughly dividing it among the three.
Bake the cake layers
Pop the pans into your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the strawberry cream cheese frosting
While your cakes cool, you can whip up that delicious fresh strawberry cream cheese frosting. Start by pureeing about 15 medium strawberries in a food processor. Then, beat together 8 oz of room temperature cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in 3 to 4 cups of powdered sugar, along with the strawberry puree. Mix until you achieve your desired consistency—thicker for layering works best!
Assemble and frost the cake
Once your cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat, finishing with the third layer. Frost the top and sides of your cake, making it a vision of pink and creamy delight. Your Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to be enjoyed!
This cake is not just a treat; it’s a beautiful centerpiece for any occasion. Happy baking!
Variations on Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Chocolate Variation
If you're a chocolate lover, consider transforming this vanilla bean cake into a rich chocolate delight. Simply swap out half of the all-purpose flour for unsweetened cocoa powder, and add a touch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can use a chocolate cream cheese frosting in place of the strawberry to create a delightful pairing with those deep cocoa notes. It's a delicious twist that satisfies any sweet tooth!
Fruit Variations
Want to mix things up? The vanilla bean cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting pairs well with a variety of fruits! Try using raspberries for a tangy kick, or sweet peaches when they're in season. Just blend the fresh fruit into the frosting as you would with strawberries, adjusting sugar levels as needed. Alternatively, consider layering slices of fruit between the cake layers for a fresh burst in every bite. Explore different flavors and textures—your cake will be the star of any gathering!
For more tips on cake variations, check out this resource.
Baking Notes for Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
High Altitude Adjustments
Baking at high altitudes can be tricky, but with a few adjustments, you can enjoy your Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting without any hiccups. If you're at 5,000–7,000 feet:
- Increase the baking temperature to 365°F.
- Bake for a shorter time (16-19 minutes).
- Use normal, unbleached flour instead of cake flour.
- Decrease the sugar by 1 tablespoon to balance flavors.
- Incorporate an extra egg white for moisture and stability.
Storage Tips
To keep your Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting as delightful as fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 7 days. You can also freeze individual slices! To do so, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain freshness. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature for that perfect slice. Don’t forget to label your wrapped slices for easy identification later on!
For extra tips on baking at high altitude, check out this helpful guide.
Serving Suggestions for Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Ideal Occasions for Serving
The Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for a variety of celebrations. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering, a birthday party, or a romantic dinner for two, this delightful cake is sure to impress. It’s especially fitting for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, or celebratory brunches. Its charming size and stunning colors make it an excellent centerpiece that invites sweet moments.
Pairing Ideas: Beverages and Snacks
When it comes to pairing, go for refreshing beverages like sparkling water or iced tea. The lightness of these drinks complements the cake without overpowering the delicate flavors. For a snack companion, consider serving fresh fruit or a platter of cheese, such as brie or goat cheese. These options enhance the overall experience without overshadowing the luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting.
For more ideas on pairings, check out this guide on dessert pairings.
Tips for Making Perfect Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Quality of Ingredients
To achieve a truly exceptional Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting, start with high-quality ingredients. Opt for real vanilla bean paste—it's richer and more aromatic than vanilla extract. Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the frosting; their natural sweetness will shine through. Also, ensure your eggs and dairy are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Small choices can elevate your cake's flavor immensely!
Frosting Techniques
When it comes to frosting, the right technique makes all the difference. Start with whipped cream cheese and butter to create a fluffy texture and incorporate the strawberry puree until smooth. Use an angled spatula for even spreading and consider chilling the frosting slightly for a thicker consistency. This helps it hold its shape better on your beautifully layered cake.
For more frosting tips, check out this helpful guide!
Time details for Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Preparation time
Getting ready to bake this Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to gather all your ingredients and tools to streamline the process!
Baking time
You'll spend approximately 20 minutes in the oven, where your cake layers will transform into delicious, fluffy cakes.
Total time
From prep to serving, allow around 3 hours and 20 minutes. This includes cooling time, where your cakes can rest before they are frosted to perfection. Perfect for an intimate celebration!
Nutritional Information for Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Calories
A delightful slice of our Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting contains about 320 calories. Perfect for a cherished occasion like Valentine's Day!
Protein
Each slice offers 3 grams of protein, making it a sweet treat that contributes to your daily intake, while still keeping it light and enjoyable.
Sugar Content
With approximately 24 grams of sugar per slice, this cake satisfies your sweet tooth just right. It’s a lovely way to treat yourself without going overboard!
If you're looking to lighten the sugar content, consider exploring options for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which can complement the flavors beautifully. Enjoy your baking adventure!
FAQs about Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the frosting?
Absolutely! If you're aiming for a lighter frosting, consider using mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. This will give your Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining a creamy consistency. Just ensure your substitute is full-fat for the best texture!
How do I store leftover cake?
To preserve the freshness of your Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting, store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This way, it will stay delightful for up to seven days! If you expect to keep it longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic for up to three months.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Definitely! The Vanilla Bean Layer Cake can be made in advance. Bake the layers ahead of time and allow them to cool completely. You can then freeze them or keep them refrigerated until you're ready to frost and serve. This can not only save you time but also ensures that your cake is ready to impress, even on short notice!
Conclusion on Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Creating a Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a delightful experience but also a memorable treat for someone special. This fluffy cake, paired with the rich cream cheese frosting, offers a perfect balance of flavors. Share the joy of baking, and savor each slice!
Vanilla Bean Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- oven
- handheld mixer
- Stand Mixer
- 6x2 inch cake pans
- parchment paper
- Cooking spray
- food processor
- Offset frosting spatula
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Bean Layer Cake
- 1.75 cup all purpose flour can use cake flour
- 0.75 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg whites room temperature
- 3 teaspoon Rodelle vanilla bean paste
- 0.5 cup sour cream full fat, room temperature
- 0.5 cup milk whole milk, room temperature
For the Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese full fat, room temperature
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 3-4 cup powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup pureed, fresh strawberries about 15 medium strawberries
Instructions
For the Vanilla Bean Layer Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease three 6x2 inch cake pans and line with parchment paper rounds. Grease the top of the parchment paper.
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Cream the butter for about 1 minute on high until light and fluffy.
- Add the sugar and beat on high for 2 minutes until well incorporated and creamy.
- Add the egg whites and vanilla bean paste. Beat on medium high until well combined, then beat in the sour cream.
- Slow the mixer to low speed, pour in the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour in the milk and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the cake pans. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack in the pans completely before frosting.
To Make the Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- Clean the strawberries, cut them in half, and blend into a puree.
- Beat the cream cheese and butter on high for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar, one at a time, then add the strawberry puree and mix until well combined.
- Continue to add powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
- Spread the frosting onto your cooled cakes.
- Store cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
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