Description:
This stunning Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake is a show-stopping layered cake with a gradient of pink hues, complemented by a light and fluffy vanilla sponge. Perfect for celebrations, this cake combines the delicate flavors of vanilla and fresh strawberries with a smooth, creamy frosting.
Origin:
The ombre cake trend originates from the modern baking movement, where color gradients add an artistic touch to traditional layer cakes. This recipe blends classic French and American cake-baking techniques to create a visually striking and delicious dessert.
Ingredients (Quantity)
Cake:
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) strawberry puree (for color and flavor)
- Pink food coloring (optional, for ombre effect)
Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) strawberry puree
- Pink food coloring (optional)
Ingredients (Optional)
- Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
- White chocolate shavings
- Edible gold leaf
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate Adding Ingredients: Gradually mix in dry ingredients and milk, alternating between the two.
- Create Ombre Layers: Divide the batter into three equal parts. Leave one plain (vanilla), mix strawberry puree into the second, and add food coloring to the third for a deeper pink hue.
- Bake: Pour each batter into separate pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla. Divide frosting and mix strawberry puree into one part for a pink gradient.
- Assemble & Decorate: Stack layers from lightest to darkest, spreading frosting between each layer. Use different shades of pink frosting on the outside for an ombre effect. Smooth with a spatula and decorate with fresh strawberries.
Tips for Success:
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant ombre effect.
- Make sure cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Chill the cake for 15 minutes after crumb-coating for easier final decoration.
- For extra strawberry flavor, brush layers with strawberry syrup before frosting.
Recommendations:
- Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant touch.
- Pair with a glass of champagne or strawberry lemonade for a refreshing combo.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition (Per Slice, Approximate):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Sugar: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
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