Strawberries and cream sponge cake is one of those delightful desserts that brings a smile to my face. The combination of fluffy sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and rich cream creates a treat that feels special. I remember the first time I made this cake, it was for a summer picnic. Everyone loved it, and I felt so proud. Now, I want to share my favorite strawberries and cream sponge cake recipe with you.
Ingredients for Strawberries and Cream Sponge Cake
To make this delicious cake, you will need the following ingredients.
Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Sponge Cake
Making the sponge cake is the first step. It’s surprisingly simple and requires just a few steps.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the egg mixture. Gently fold it in using a spatula.
- Add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Baking the Cake
Now that the batter is ready, it’s time to bake.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Filling
While the cakes cool, I like to prepare the cream filling. This part is so easy and adds a lovely richness to the cake.
- In a mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Refrigerate the whipped cream until you are ready to assemble the cake.
Preparing the Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are a must for this dessert. Their sweetness complements the cream and sponge perfectly.
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the green tops.
- Slice the strawberries into thin pieces. You can sprinkle a little sugar on them if you want to enhance their sweetness.
Assembling
Now comes the fun part: assembling the cake! This is where you can get creative.
- Place one layer of sponge cake on a serving plate.
- Spread half of the whipped cream over the first layer.
- Add half of the sliced strawberries on top of the cream.
- Place the second layer of sponge cake on top.
- Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top layer.
- Top with the remaining strawberries.
Decorating the Cake
A little decoration goes a long way in making the cake look beautiful.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.
- You can also add whole strawberries around the edges for a more polished look.
Serving the Strawberries and Cream Sponge Cake
When it’s time to serve, I recommend slicing the cake with a sharp knife.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storing Leftover Cake
If you have any leftovers, you might want to store them properly.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips that have helped me make the best strawberries and cream sponge cake.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the sponge light and airy.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better results.
- Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness.
Variations on Strawberries and Cream Sponge Cake
If you want to mix things up, there are several variations you can try.
- Add lemon zest to the cream for a refreshing twist.
- Use different berries like blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent touch.
Enjoying Your Strawberries and Cream Sponge Cake
Making strawberries and cream sponge cake is a delightful experience. It’s a perfect dessert for gatherings, celebrations, or simply to enjoy at home. The combination of fluffy sponge, rich cream, and fresh strawberries creates a dessert that is sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do.