Name: Irresistible Strawberry Custard Delight Cake for Every Occasion
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt recommended); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with margarine); 1 cups Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for caramel flavor); 3 large Eggs (Flax eggs for vegan option); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best flavor); 1 cups Whole Milk (Almond milk is a lactose-free substitute); 0.5 cups Sugar (Reduce for less sweetness); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Arrowroot can be substituted); 4 large Egg Yolks (Use whole egg if not separating); 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (Thawed and drained frozen berries can substitute); 1 cups Whipped Cream (Optional but recommended)

With summer in full swing, there’s nothing quite like the joy of freshly picked strawberries to brighten up your dessert table. That’s where my Strawberry Custard Delight Cake comes in—it’s an easy-to-make treat that marries fluffy layers with velvety custard and vibrant strawberries. Perfect for family gatherings or simply treating yourself, this lovely dessert not only grabs attention but also wins hearts with its delightful presentation and taste. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a stress-free addition to your baking rotation. So, are you ready to dive into a slice of happiness? Let’s get baking!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Delightful Layers: Each slice of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake unveils a stunning interplay of fluffy cake layered with rich custard and fresh strawberries, creating a visual feast that is as appealing as it is delicious.

Easy to Make: The simple step-by-step process means even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen—no complicated techniques required!

Versatile Flavor: While strawberries shine in this recipe, you can easily swap them out for your favorite seasonal fruits, providing numerous flavor combinations.

Stress-Free Preparation: Make it ahead of time! The cake stores beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing you to focus on enjoying your gathering rather than worrying about dessert.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for any occasion—be it a summer picnic or a family birthday—this delightful cake will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Treat yourself or impress your guests with this irresistible dessert, and for more delightful options, explore our Strawberry Cake Sweet for more fruity indulgence!

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cake to rise evenly.
Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps achieve a light, airy texture.
Salt – Enhances the flavor; kosher salt is recommended for the best taste.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; margarine can be a substitute if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; brown sugar can give a lovely caramel flavor.
Eggs – Vital for moisture and structure; flax eggs are a great vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses delightful flavor; opt for pure vanilla for optimal taste.
Whole Milk – Contributes moisture; almond milk works as a great lactose-free substitute.

For the Custard

Sugar – Provides sweetness; you can reduce it to make the custard less sweet.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; can use arrowroot if necessary.
Egg Yolks – Ensure creamy consistency; must use a whole egg if not separating.

For the Topping

Fresh Strawberries – Offer vibrant flavor and visual appeal; use thawed and drained frozen berries as a substitute.
Whipped Cream – Garnish adds a velvety finish; it’s optional but highly recommended for presentation.

Indulge in the delightful layers of this Strawberry Custard Delight Cake that will captivate your senses and impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with a bit of unsalted butter and dusting with flour, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent sticking later. This setting is essential for baking the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This step sets the foundation for your sponge cake by creating a uniform blend of dry ingredients, which will help the cake rise beautifully when combined with wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air into the butter, giving the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake its delightful texture. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry mixture and 1 cup of whole milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mix. Blend everything until just combined into a smooth batter, being careful not to overmix. This creates a light batter that will bake up into airy layers that perfectly complement the custard.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes as they bake, and enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen, signaling that the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is nearly ready.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently invert the cakes onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is crucial; if they’re too warm when cutting, they may crumble, so be patient as you wait for these layers to become ready for assembly.

Step 7: Prepare the Custard
To make the custard, heat 2 cups of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming. In another bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 4 egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the warm milk, whisking constantly until the custard thickens, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat to cool slightly.

Step 8: Assemble the Layers
Once the cakes are completely cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers in total. Place the first layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of custard over it, followed by diced fresh strawberries for added flavor and texture. Repeat this process for the remaining layers until your beautiful Strawberry Custard Delight Cake is assembled.

Step 9: Chill the Cake
After layering, cover the entire cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully and allows the custard to set, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dessert that you and your guests will love.

Step 10: Final Touches
Before serving, garnish the top of your chilled cake with whipped cream and halved strawberries for an elegant presentation. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake but also adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the sweet strawberries and soft custard.

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this delightful cake with these ideas that elevate flavor and texture!

Seasonal Berries: Substitute fresh strawberries with a mix of blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist. This swap adds a variety of tangy flavors that beautifully complement the custard.
Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut cream instead of whipped cream to create a luscious, dairy-free dessert that everyone can enjoy!
Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent treat, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving. The rich chocolate adds an irresistible depth that pairs perfectly with the fruity layers.
Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almond or hazelnut pieces between layers for a delightful crunch. This variation will give your cake a lovely nutty texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the custard.
Citrus Zest: Add a burst of freshness by whisking in lemon or orange zest into the custard. The zesty flavor elevates the cake, bringing a refreshing brightness that complements the strawberries.
Spiced Cake: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, aromatic twist. These spices add a comforting depth, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent touch. The sweetness of caramel harmonizes with the strawberries, creating a heavenly combination.
Frozen Option: For a cool twist on this summer delight, consider freezing the assembled cake to create a cake popsicle! Just remember to let it thaw slightly before slicing for easier serving.

Explore different variations of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake and awaken your creative baking spirit. And if you’re looking to indulge in more fruity delights, check out our Strawberry Cake Sweet for a luscious journey through sweetness!

What to Serve with Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?

Dive into a delightful celebration of flavors that will transform your dessert experience into a memorable feast.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cake, adding a burst of flavor and color to your plate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the chilled cake, creating a luscious and indulgent pairing that melts in your mouth.
Minty Green Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette bring a zesty balance to the richness of the cake, making for a well-rounded meal.
Sparkling Lemonade: The bubbly citrus touch of sparkling lemonade cuts through the sweetness, refreshing your palate with every sip.
Cold Brew Coffee: A chilled coffee enhances the rich custard and strawberry elements, providing a comforting and sophisticated touch to your dessert table.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your cake’s presentation by drizzling melted chocolate on top; this adds an indulgent layer of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.

These delightful pairings will make your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake the star of any gathering, creating an unforgettable culinary experience!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

Fridge: Store uneaten cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to keep the custard creamy.

Reheating: If you prefer a slightly warmed slice, gently heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but enjoy the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake chilled for the best flavor experience.

Assembling Ahead: You can assemble the cake a day in advance; chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert option.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Custard Delight Cake

• Cool Cakes Properly: Ensure the cakes cool completely before slicing; warm layers tend to crumble, making assembly tricky.

• Stir Custard Consistently: Whisk the custard continuously while heating to prevent lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency.

• Chill for Best Flavor: Allow the assembled cake to chill for at least 1-2 hours; this step blends the flavors beautifully and enhances the overall taste of the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries and pure vanilla extract for the best flavors; quality ingredients elevate this delightful dessert.

• Layer Evenly: When assembling, spread custard and strawberries evenly between layers for a beautiful, balanced cake that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Strawberry Custard Delight Cake layers are perfect for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy homemade desserts without the last-minute rush! You can prepare both the cake and custard up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake the cakes and cool them completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The custard can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure both components are chilled properly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, layer the custard and strawberries between the cake layers, chill for 1-2 hours, and then add the whipped cream for a delightful fresh finish!

Strawberry Custard Delight Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right strawberries for this cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and firm without any dark spots or mold. The best strawberries should have a sweet fragrance, which is a good indicator of their flavor. If they have any signs of overripeness, it’s best to choose another batch for your Strawberry Custard Delight Cake.

How should I store the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
To maintain its freshness, cover any leftover cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have more cake than you can eat in that timeframe, you can also freeze it for later enjoyment!

Can I freeze the Strawberry Custard Delight Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

What if my custard turns out lumpy?
No worries! If your custard ends up lumpy, you can carefully strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lumps and return it to low heat, whisking until smooth again. For best results, make sure to whisk continuously while heating to prevent lumps from forming in the first place.

Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
If you’re catering to those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make adjustments! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Additionally, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option. Just keep in mind the allergies of your guests and adjust ingredients accordingly to create a delightful Strawberry Custard Delight Cake for everyone!

How long should I chill the assembled cake before serving?
I recommend chilling the assembled cake for at least 1-2 hours. This allows the custard to set nicely, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dessert. If possible, chilling it overnight can enhance the flavors even more. Enjoy!