Description
A whimsical and tender vanilla-based cake crowned with a naturally tinted strawberry cream cheese frosting. This simple, moist dessert captures a nostalgic charm that is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a cheerful afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Gradually mix in the egg whites one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and optional pink food coloring or strawberry reduction if desired.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth.
- Add the confectioners’ sugar one cup at a time on low speed, then beat in the strawberry jam and vanilla extract until fluffy.
Notes
To ensure a perfectly smooth frosting, sift your confectioners’ sugar before adding it to the butter and cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a more vibrant pink sponge without artificial dyes, consider reducing a half-cup of strawberry puree into a thick paste and adding it to the batter in step two.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American