Name: Delightful Strawberry Custard Cake for Your Next Gathering
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Leavening agent for airy texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors.); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Add moisture and richness.); 1 cups Granulated Sugar (Essential for creaming with butter.); 3 large Eggs (Provide structure and moisture.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure extract for best results.); 1 cups Whole Milk (Substitute with almond or oat milk for non-dairy.); 0.5 cups Sugar (Essential for flavor.); 0.25 cups Cornstarch (Key for achieving the right consistency.); 4 egg yolks Egg Yolks (Enrich custard and give silky texture.); 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (Replace with other fresh or thawed berries as desired.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of strawberries danced through the air, transporting me to warm summer days spent indulging in luscious desserts. Today, I’m excited to share my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake—a show-stopper that offers both visual appeal and a delightful eating experience. This vegetarian dessert is not only a breeze to whip up, but it also invites creativity with flexible ingredient swaps, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Imagine layers of fluffy cake interspersed with creamy custard and fresh strawberries, creating a perfect finale for any gathering. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, ensuring you can impress your guests without the last-minute stress. Curious about how to craft this light and luxurious treat? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is this cake so delightful?

Indulgent Layers: The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake masterfully combines fluffy cake layers with rich, velvety custard, creating a dreamy dessert that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Endless Variations: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping strawberries for seasonal berries or even trying a chocolate custard for a twist, allowing your creativity to shine.

Quick & Easy: Perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers, this cake is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion without hours spent in the kitchen.

Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the cake layers and custard in advance—just assemble before serving and enjoy less stress and more fun with your guests.

Show-Stopping Presentation: Guests will be wowed not only by the taste but also the visual appeal, as this layered dessert is sure to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. For more delightful desserts, check out my recipes for Coconut Cake Cheese and Carrot Cake Cheesecake.

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent for airy texture; essential for rising.
Salt – Enhances flavors; balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with plant-based butter for dairy-free.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and texture; essential for creaming with butter.
Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; essential for custard consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor depth; use pure extract for best results.
Whole Milk – Contributes to a creamy texture; substitute with almond or oat milk for non-dairy.

For the Custard

Sugar – Sweetens custard; essential for flavor.
Cornstarch – Thickens custard; key for achieving the right consistency.
Egg Yolks – Enrich custard and give it a silky texture; can replace with egg replacers if needed.

For the Topping

Fresh Strawberries – Adds freshness and flavor; replace with other fresh or thawed berries as desired.

This Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity! Enjoy customizing it for your taste and occasion.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter. Dust the pans with flour to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy release for your delicate Strawberry Custard Delight Cake once baked. This step is essential for achieving a flawless presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until combined. This dry mixture acts as the base for your cake layers, providing structure and ensuring the light, airy texture. Set this mixture aside while you cream the butter and sugar.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, leading to a tender cake. Add in 3 large eggs one at a time, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk until everything is well combined and smooth. This gentle folding technique ensures no lumps remain, creating a beautifully consistent batter for the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. The color will lighten, and the texture should be velvety.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter equally between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, the layers should spring back when lightly touched, signaling they’re ready to come out.

Step 6: Cool and Slice Cake Layers
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, take a serrated knife and carefully slice each cake layer in half horizontally. This step creates four layers that will help showcase the luscious custard and strawberries.

Step 7: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, heat 2 cups of whole milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and 4 egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the hot milk, cooking on low heat while continually stirring until the custard thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Begin assembling your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake by placing one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of custard on top, followed by a layer of fresh sliced strawberries. Repeat this process for the next two layers, finishing with a final layer of custard on top and garnishing with additional strawberries to create a beautiful presentation.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Cover the assembled Strawberry Custard Delight Cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that each slice holds together nicely when served. As you wait, the anticipation will surely build for this delightful dessert.

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dessert by making delightful swaps and twists that suit your tastes!

Berry Swap: Replace fresh strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a vibrant seasonal twist. Each berry brings its unique flavor, creating a colorful canvas of taste.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the custard or cake batter for a refreshing citrus burst. This brightens up the flavors, making each bite even more invigorating.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and crunch. This delightful surprise can change the whole dynamic of the cake, offering that beloved contrast.
Chocolate Indulgence: Use chocolate custard instead of vanilla for a richer, decadent dessert. What a delightful pairing it creates with the strawberries!
Savory Twist: Experiment with a savory custard by adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme. This gourmet twist offers a surprising depth that could impress your dinner guests.
Plant-Based Option: Substitute dairy ingredients like milk and butter with almond or oat milk and vegan butter for a delightful dairy-free experience that maintains all the delicious flavors.
Sugar Alternatives: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural touch. This brings in a unique sweetness and a hint of flavor that could add another layer of richness.
Layer with Compotes: Swirl in berry compotes or fruit preserves between the layers for added moisture, flavor, and a fun surprise when cutting into the cake.

These ideas offer a plethora of ways to enjoy your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in fresh and exciting forms. For those interested in other delectable desserts, check out my tasty recipes for Tres Leches Cake and Coffee Caramel Cake.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Perfect Creaming: Ensure that the butter and sugar are thoroughly creamed until light and fluffy to create an airy cake. This is essential for the texture of your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.
Cool Before Slicing: Always allow the cake layers to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain their structure and ensures clean cuts, making your layers beautiful and presentable.
Thicken Custard Correctly: If your custard is too thin, don’t panic! Simply return it to the heat and stir continuously until it thickens to the desired consistency, providing a luscious filling that complements the cake perfectly.
Layering Tips: Use the freshest strawberries possible for the best flavor. When layering, alternate between custard and strawberries for even distribution to ensure every bite is deliciously balanced.
Chill for Best Flavor: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving enhances the flavor and allows the custard to set beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Custard Delight Cake components are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings! You can prepare the cake layers and custard up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and cool the layers (store them wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container) and make the custard (which can be refrigerated in a sealed container). When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake layers, assemble with the custard and fresh strawberries, and chill for 1-2 hours to enhance flavor melding. This way, you’ll save time and stress, ensuring your dessert is just as delicious and visually appealing as if freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover slices at room temperature for up to 1 day, but keep them covered to prevent drying out.
Fridge: Place the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly to maintain its moist texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, freezing for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best taste and texture.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

A delightful dessert deserves memorable companions that enhance its beauty and flavor!

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy texture, balancing the rich custard perfectly and creating a dreamy mouthfeel.
Mint Garnish: Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing touch to each slice; their vibrant color and aromatic essence elevate the cake’s presentation.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the cake introduces a luxurious flavor contrast that complements the sweetness of the strawberries delightfully.
Berry Medley Salad: A light, mixed berry salad provides a fresh, tangy counterpoint, enhancing the fruity notes of the cake while maintaining a vibrant color palette.
Vanilla Ice Cream: An indulgent scoop of vanilla ice cream against the chilled cake creates a heavenly combination, providing a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or herbal, makes a lovely pairing, providing a light, cooling contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a cleansing sip, sparkling water with a hint of lemon offers bubbly refreshment that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s richness.
Almond Biscotti: The crunch of almond biscotti gives a delightful textural contrast, making for a lovely snack alongside your dessert or as a charming appetizer.

Indulge in these pairings to create an unforgettable dining experience that complements the stunning Strawberry Custard Delight Cake!

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! Choose fresh strawberries that are ripe and firm, with a bright red color and no dark spots. This will ensure they are sweet and flavorful in your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. If you can’t find fresh strawberries, frozen ones can be used, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

How should I store the leftover cake?
You can store the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain its moisture. If you prefer, you can also keep it at room temperature for up to 1 day, just be sure it’s wrapped securely.

Can I freeze this cake? How?
Certainly! To freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. This will help to protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, simply move the slices to the fridge to thaw overnight, or for a quicker option, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my custard turned out too thin?
No need to worry! If your custard isn’t as thick as you’d like, return it to the heat over medium-low, stirring continuously until it thickens, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If you want to avoid this in the future, ensure your cornstarch is fully incorporated when adding to the milk, and that the milk is sufficiently heated to activate the thickening properties.

Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
It can be customized for different dietary needs! The Strawberry Custard Delight Cake can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy allergies, simply replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. Always double-check for any specific allergens in the ingredients used!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare both the cake layers and custard a day in advance. Just store the layers and custard in the refrigerator separately. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake with layers and chill for at least 1-2 hours. Making it ahead not only adds convenience but also enhances the flavor as it melds together beautifully!