As I whisk together the ingredients for my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, a rush of nostalgia sweeps over me, reminding me of summer picnics and family get-togethers. The cake consists of fluffy layers, silky custard, and vibrant strawberries, making it a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. This recipe is a perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity, ideal for those quick weekends when you need to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice of this sweet delight. Are you ready to create a delicious dessert that’s bursting with love and sunshine? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Deliciously Balanced: The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake harmonizes light, airy cake layers with a silky custard, making it indulgent yet refreshing. Time-Saving Elegance: Perfect for busy weekends, this stunning dessert comes together effortlessly, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether at a family gathering or a picnic, this cake will impress guests of all ages. Versatile Substitutions: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs with options like almond milk or gluten-free flour. Nostalgic Comfort: It evokes memories of sun-drenched afternoons, bringing a taste of summer to any occasion, just like my delightful Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls or festive Strawberry Santas.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients
• Whip up this delicious recipe!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise; no substitutions recommended.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; use kosher salt for the best taste.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Eggs – Provide moisture and binding; egg substitutes may include flaxseed meal or applesauce.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; can be swapped with almond extract for a unique twist.
- Whole milk – Adds moisture to the batter; replace with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
For the Custard
- Sugar (for custard) – Sweetens the custard with no substitutions available.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the custard; arrowroot powder can be an alternative.
- Egg yolks – Add richness and color to the custard; aquafaba serves as a great egg substitute.
- Whole milk – Necessary for custard creaminess; consider using almond milk for dietary needs.
For Assembly
- Fresh strawberries – Bring freshness and vibrant decoration to your cake; frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.
Now you’re all set to gather your ingredients and embark on the delightful adventure of making this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and lightly flouring to prevent sticking. This extra step is essential for ensuring your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake comes out perfectly when it’s time to reveal its golden-brown beauty.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until combined. This blend is crucial for the structure of your cake. Mixing these dry ingredients helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, giving your cake a light and airy texture. Set the bowl aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step adds richness and moisture to your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake while creating tiny air pockets that will make your cake rise beautifully.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate 3 large eggs into the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and stir until everything is fully combined. The eggs will provide moisture and binding, while the vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the strawberries.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat until smooth and combined, roughly 1-2 minutes. This alternating method ensures that your batter remains light and avoids overmixing, critical for a fluffy Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cakes are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as the perfect texture is key to the overall delightful experience of this cake.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent sogginess and crumbling. Allow the layers to cool thoroughly, as warm layers can spoil the construction of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Step 8: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, heat 2 cups of whole milk over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 4 egg yolks. Gradually add the warm milk to the egg mixture while whisking continuously to avoid curdling. Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 9: Layer the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled completely, use a serrated knife to slice each layer horizontally into two equal layers. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of custard over it, and add sliced fresh strawberries. Repeat this process until all layers are assembled, with custard and strawberries nestled between each layer, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Step 10: Chill and Serve
Finally, refrigerate the assembled Strawberry Custard Delight Cake for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to set. Before serving, you can garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish. Enjoy the refreshing and decadent taste of your lovingly made cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Custard Delight Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; just cool them completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The custard can also be prepared ahead—cook it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain that delightful creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the custard and fresh strawberries between the cakes, chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld, and you’ll have a luscious dessert ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal creaminess; cold butter can lead to lumps in your batter.
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Cool Time: Be patient while the cakes cool completely. Cutting warm layers can cause them to crumble and ruin the structure of your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
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Custard Consistency: When cooking the custard, stir continuously over medium heat to prevent curdling. Proper thickening is key to a smooth custard.
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Layering Technique: Use a serrated knife to cut the cake layers evenly. This technique guarantees that each layer bakes uniformly and makes assembly easier.
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Serving Suggestion: For a show-stopping presentation, garnish the finished cake with extra strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate.
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations
Feel free to tantalize your taste buds with these delightful tweaks while making your cake uniquely yours!
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Berry Medley: Swap strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant medley bursting with flavor. Each slice will surprise you with a different berry delight, keeping the excitement alive!
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the custard for a refreshing citrus twist. It brightens the flavor profile, making each bite pop with that perfect zing of sunshine!
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Whipped Cream Layers: Instead of custard between the layers, you could use sweetened whipped cream for a lighter option. This will add a fluffy charm, creating a wonderfully airy texture throughout your cake.
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Coconut Cream: Replace part of the milk with coconut milk in the custard for a tropical flair. The fragrant coconut will transport you straight to an island paradise with every bite!
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Almond Extract: For a nutty twist, use almond extract instead of vanilla. This aromatic substitution will bring a delightful depth, making your cake absolutely irresistible and fragrant.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a rich chocolate ganache drizzle on top for an extra layer of indulgence. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries will create a luxurious dessert experience that’s hard to forget.
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Layered Spice: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake batter for a warm, cozy flavor. A hint of warmth will transform your cake into a comforting delight, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Frozen Fruit Option: If fresh strawberries are out of season, use frozen strawberries instead. Just thaw, drain, and slice them to still enjoy that fruity goodness, making this dessert possible anytime!
For other delicious inspirations, consider making a creamy Biscoff Cheesecake or even an elegant Yule Log Cake. Each recipe carries its own unique charm, perfect for various gatherings. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
As you prepare to delight your friends and family with this luscious cake, think about complementing it to create a memorable feast.
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Light Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy texture that balances the cake’s fruity freshness, perfect for a warm day.
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Fresh Berry Salad: A medley of berries drizzled with a hint of honey enhances the summery feel and adds vibrant color to your dessert table.
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Minted Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of whipped cream infused with fresh mint for a refreshing burst that elevates each bite of cake.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A glass of bubbly sparkling water with a splash of lemon offers a refreshing contrast to the rich custard layers.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate sauce drizzled on top adds an elegant touch and a decadent flavor pairing with the strawberries.
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Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: Brew some iced tea infused with berries or citrus for a refreshing drink that complements the cake’s fruity essence.
These delightful accompaniments will not only enhance your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake but also create a beautiful dining experience that your loved ones will cherish.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
- Fridge: Store the assembled cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: If you want to keep your cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. You can serve it cold or gently warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat.
- Leftovers: If you have leftover custard or strawberries after assembling, store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and layer them onto fresh cake slices as you serve!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for the cake?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and have a fresh, sweet scent. Avoid those with dark spots or excessive bruising, as they may be overripe. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well before incorporating them into the cake.
What is the best way to store the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Very! Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Just be sure to keep it well-covered to avoid drying out. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it instead.
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Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Definitely! To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and it will be just as delightful as when freshly made!
What if my custard isn’t thickening properly?
No worries! If you notice your custard isn’t thickening, make sure you’re cooking it over medium heat and continuously stirring. If it hasn’t thickened after about 5-7 minutes, you can try whisking a little more cornstarch dissolved in water and adding it back to the saucepan, cooking for an additional minute or two while stirring well until desired thickness is reached.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be adjusted for a range of dietary needs. Substitute the butter with margarine for a dairy-free option, use almond milk in place of whole milk, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan cake. Enjoy being inclusive while baking delightful treats!
How long can I store leftover custard and strawberries?
That’s a great question! If you have leftover custard or fresh strawberries after assembling the cake, store each in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. The leftover custard can be used within two days, while the strawberries will stay fresh for up to three days. Layer the custard and strawberries onto fresh cake slices to enjoy them again!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake: A Slice of Summery Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm, then whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Add warm milk gradually, stirring to avoid curdling. Cook until thickened.
- Once cooled, slice each cake horizontally into two layers, assemble with custard and strawberries in between each layer.
- Chill the assembled cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving.
