Description
This fluffy 6-inch Vanilla Bean Layer Cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers! Infused with rich vanilla bean paste and layered with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion. Made with simple pantry staples, this elegant yet easy-to-make cake will impress with every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 egg whites, large
- 3 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream, full-fat
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 6-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla bean paste.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk + sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
- Fold in strawberry puree until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble & Frost the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer over the frosting and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature before mixing.
- Stronger Vanilla Flavor: Substitute vanilla extract if you don’t have vanilla bean paste.
- Strawberry Frosting Variation: If frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time.
- Storage: Store the cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling & Assembly Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American