Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Oh, the joy of making my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake brings back the sweetest memories of summer picnics with my family! I can still hear my mom's laughter as she sliced into that fluffy, creamy cake, letting the vibrant strawberries tumble out like a burst of sunshine. It was our go-to dessert for every gathering, and let me tell you, it never lasted long on the table. This cake isn't just a treat; it's a delightful way to celebrate warm weather, birthdays, or simply a wonderful Tuesday. Each bite is a reminder of those sun-soaked days filled with love, laughter, and, of course, delicious food!

As the seasons change and fresh strawberries start popping up at the market, I can't help but get excited about baking this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake. It's a perfect dessert for spring and summer, bringing together the lightness of the cake with the creamy custard and the fresh, fruity tang of strawberries. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or looking for a special treat for your family, this cake is sure to impress and create new memories that will last a lifetime. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll understand why it's such a cherished recipe in my home!

Why You'll Love "Strawberry Custard Delight Cake"

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days!
• Minimal ingredients make it family-friendly and budget-conscious.
• Light and fluffy texture pairs beautifully with creamy custard and fresh strawberries.
• Great for gatherings, impressing guests with its stunning presentation.
• Can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a refreshing dessert.
• Versatile enough to adapt with different fruits or flavors throughout the seasons.

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Cake:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (always use high-quality butter for the best flavor)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for rich flavor)
• For the Custard Filling:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for custard filling)
• For the Topping:
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced (plus whole strawberries for garnish)
  • Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for getting that perfect rise!
2. While the oven is heating up, grab your baking pan (a 9x13 inch works wonders) and grease it with a little butter or non-stick spray, then dust with flour. This helps the cake come out easily later on.

Make the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a quick whisk to blend everything together.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy. This could take about 3-5 minutes; it's worth it for that delicious texture!
3. Next, add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients from the first bowl to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture (flour, milk, flour, milk, flour). Mix until just combined; don't overdo it!

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the beautiful batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it's still gooey, give it a few more minutes.
3. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience, my friend; it'll be worth it!

Prepare the Custard Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk it together until smooth.
2. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Keep an eye on it; you want it to thicken up nicely without burning. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once thickened, remove it from the heat. Now, whisk in the egg yolks, unsalted butter, and that lovely vanilla extract until everything is beautifully blended together and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

1. Now that your cake is cool, slice it in half horizontally. A serrated knife works best for this! Go slowly to keep those layers nice and even.
2. Spread half of the custard filling on the bottom layer of the cake, making sure it's even and luscious.
3. Next, sprinkle your diced strawberries on top of the custard. Feel free to be generous; they add such a fresh pop of flavor!
4. Carefully place the top layer of the cake back on. Press down gently so everything sticks together nicely.

Decorate and Serve

1. It's time to get fancy! Decorate the top with dollops of whipped cream. You can use store-bought or whip your own; both are delicious!
2. Finish it off with whole strawberries for a beautiful presentation. It's like adding a cherry on top but way better!
3. For the best taste, serve the cake chilled. It makes every bite feel like a sweet summer day, no matter the season!

Variations

• Try adding a layer of lemon curd for a citrus twist!
• Substitute the strawberries with fresh blueberries or peaches for a seasonal change.
• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of custard filling.
• Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk in both the cake and custard.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Slice the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake into generous pieces and serve chilled for the best flavor. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of tea for a delightful treat. Garnish with extra strawberries for a pop of color and freshness!

Storage

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for up to a month. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving!

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, use organic eggs and high-quality vanilla extract.
• You can substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Add a splash of almond extract to the cake batter for a lovely twist!
• Consider using dairy-free butter and almond milk for a fully dairy-free version.
• Feel free to fold in some mini chocolate chips to the custard for a decadent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake! Once it's fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy it, just transfer it to the fridge for a few hours or overnight to thaw.

What can I use as a substitute for eggs?

If you need an egg substitute, there are a few great options! You can use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg, or try ¼ cup of mashed banana for a slight flavor twist. For a more neutral option, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Can I use different fruits for topping?

Absolutely! While strawberries are the star of this cake, you can switch things up with other fresh fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches would all be fantastic alternatives. Just make sure whichever fruit you use is ripe and fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you're as excited to make this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake as I am! It's a recipe that brings joy not just in the making but in sharing with loved ones. Each slice is a little piece of happiness and a reminder that food has the power to create wonderful memories. Whether it's a family gathering or just a cozy night at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. So grab those fresh strawberries, preheat your oven, and dive into this delightful baking adventure. I can't wait to hear how it turns out for you!