As I rummaged through my kitchen, looking for something to brighten the day, inspiration struck like a lightning bolt—what better way to lift spirits than with a slice of Strawberry Custard Delight Cake? This delightful dessert is a creamy, fruity combination of fluffy cake and rich custard, guaranteed to turn ordinary moments into sweet celebrations. Plus, it’s remarkably easy to whip up, making it perfect for both casual get-togethers and those special occasions when you want to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll love how this vegetarian treat brings smiles around the table. Ready to dive into this luscious dessert? Let’s get baking!
Why is Strawberry Custard Delight Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Taste: Each bite delivers a sweet explosion of fluffy cake and velvety custard paired with fresh strawberries.
Easy to Prepare: Perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs, this recipe requires minimal effort but yields impressive results.
Versatile Option: Serve it at birthday parties or casual picnics; it’s a hit for every gathering!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store for up to three days—ideal for busy schedules.
Dazzling Presentation: With vibrant layers of pink and cream, it’s sure to wow your guests, reminiscent of my Cranberry Custard Pie or Moist Classic Carrot Cake.
Experience the magic of this dessert that combines simplicity and deliciousness!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cake; consider gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Serves as the leavening agent to ensure the cake rises perfectly.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; use kosher salt for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness to the cake; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Gives the cake sweetness; coconut sugar can substitute for a lower glycemic index.
- Eggs – Contributes to the cake’s structure and moisture support; flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic depth for the cake; no substitutions are recommended.
- Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess; almond milk can be used for a lactose-free version.
For the Custard
- Whole Milk – Essential for the richness of the custard; coconut milk can replace for a dairy-free alternative.
- Sugar (for Custard) – Sweetens the custard; can be adjusted to taste.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for custard; no substitutes needed.
- Egg Yolks – Imparts richness to the custard; silken tofu is a good vegan substitute.
For the Fruit Layer
- Fresh Strawberries – Provide freshness and flavor; if necessary, frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained.
Immerse yourself in the delightful experience of creating this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them generously with unsalted butter or cooking spray, then dust them lightly with flour to prevent any sticky situations when removing the baked cake.
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 will help add structure to your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. Set this bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients; the next steps will bring everything together beautifully!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The fluffy texture is essential for a tender cake. Once done, you’ll know you’re on the right track to creating a delightful dessert!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will incorporate the moisture needed while building the airiness of your batter, creating a foundation for the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake’s flavor.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined after each addition. The batter should be smooth and homogeneous, with no visible flour patches remaining—this is key for achieving an even texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, then place them into the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden on top and spring back when gently pressed.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. After they have cooled slightly, carefully remove them from the pans and allow them to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent breakage when slicing the layers.
Step 8: Prepare the Custard
To make the luxurious custard, heat 2 cups of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and 4 egg yolks until smooth. Gradually mix this into the warm milk, continuing to whisk until it thickens—about 5–7 minutes of gentle cooking.
Step 9: Slice the Cakes
Once the cakes have fully cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each cake horizontally into two even layers. This will create layers for the custard and strawberries, allowing each bite of your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake to be a perfectly balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving platter and spread a layer of custard over the top. Add a layer of diced strawberries on the custard, then repeat with the next cake layer. Continue until all layers are used, finishing with the final cake layer on top. Spread any remaining custard on top and arrange halved strawberries for an eye-catching finish.
Step 11: Chill Before Serving
Cover the assembled Strawberry Custard Delight Cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld while setting the custard for easy slicing when served—your cake will be perfectly refreshing, creamy, and delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Custard Delight Cakes are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking and cooling them completely, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The custard can also be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge, simply cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake layers, assemble with the custard and strawberries, and chill for at least 1–2 hours before serving. You’ll enjoy a refreshing, delicious dessert with minimal effort when the occasion arises!
What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
A slice of Strawberry Custard Delight Cake calls for delightful companions to round out your meal and satisfy your guests’ cravings.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing and vibrant contrast, enhancing the cake’s fruity notes.
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Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream not only heightens the richness of the custard but also adds a delightful lightness to each bite.
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Mint-Infused Iced Tea: The cool, refreshing flavor of mint iced tea is a perfect beverage choice that complements the dessert’s sweetness while cleansing the palate.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a warm chocolate ganache creates a rich, decadent twist on your dessert, elevating the overall flavor of the cake.
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Almond Biscotti: These crunchy, nutty cookies provide a lovely texture difference and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with strawberry and custard.
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Lemon Sorbet: Serving a scoop of tangy lemon sorbet next to the cake offers a bright and palate-cleansing element, making for an exquisite balance.
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Chilled Rose Wine: A glass of chilled rose wine enhances the cake experience, bringing out the fruity flavors and adding a touch of elegance.
Explore these pairings to create a delightful meal that transforms your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake into the star of a charming gathering!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
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Room Temperature: The cake is best stored in a cool, dry place for up to 1 day. If you leave it out, cover loosely with foil to keep it fresh.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the freshness of the strawberries and custard intact.
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Freezer: If you need to freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: When enjoying a chilled slice, no reheating is necessary. For a warm vibe, you can slightly microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
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Creaming Method: Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy; this step is crucial for a tender cake texture in your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
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Cooling Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans to prevent them from breaking apart when you transfer them. Patience here pays off!
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Whisking Custard: Constantly whisk the custard as it heats to avoid lumps. Keep a close eye on it as it thickens to achieve a smooth custard.
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Layering Technique: When assembling, ensure you evenly distribute strawberries and custard between layers for harmonious bites throughout the cake.
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Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling the cake after assembly! This important step helps set the custard and meld the flavors beautifully, making each slice irresistible.
Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert—customizing it can make each bite even more enjoyable!
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Berry Swap: Replace fresh strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a tart twist. It’s a fun way to change the flavor profile while still celebrating the fruitiness.
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Whipped Cream Layer: Adding a layer of whipped cream between the cake layers creates a luscious richness. Pairing the airy cream with the custard elevates the entire cake experience.
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Zesty Infusion: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the custard for a refreshing tang. The citrus flavor cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-balanced dessert.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts between the layers for added texture. The crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creamy custard and soft cake.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate ganache drizzle over the assembled cake can really elevate the presentation and flavor. It’s a decadent addition that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk and dairy-free margarine to create a completely dairy-free version. Everyone deserves to indulge in this sweet treat!
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a mix of flax eggs and silken tofu in the custard for a satisfying vegan experience. This adaptation ensures everyone can enjoy a slice of bliss.
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Frozen Fruit: If fresh strawberries are out of season, use frozen ones. Just ensure they are properly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your cake layers.
With these variations, your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake can be transformed for any occasion, just like my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake or Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake. Enjoy the journey of baking!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for those that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. They should be firm but slightly soft to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or are too mushy, as they are likely overripe.
What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the freshness of the strawberries and custard. For optimal texture, enjoy within the first couple of days!
Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my custard is lumpy?
If your custard starts to develop lumps, don’t panic! Simply whisk it vigorously while it’s still warm on the stove; this helps break up the lumps. If it remains lumpy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve and then return it to low heat to thicken further, stirring constantly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
It’s great to ask! This recipe is vegetarian. However, if you’re catering to vegan preferences or allergies, you can replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Always check individuals’ allergies, especially with fresh strawberries and any dairy alternatives.
Can I prepare the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s a great idea to make it a day ahead. Just cover it well with plastic wrap in the refrigerator after assembling. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your cake even more delicious for serving!
Strawberry Custard Delight Cake: A Slice of Pure Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients and milk alternately until just combined.
- Divide batter between cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow cakes to cool for about 10 minutes in the pans, then cool completely.
- In a saucepan, heat milk and whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth; mix with warm milk until thickened.
- Slice each cake horizontally into two layers.
- Assemble the cake with custard and strawberries between layers.
- Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.
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