Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe: A Showstopper Dessert

Have you ever tasted a dessert so delightful that it left you speechless? The Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake recipe is one such treat. This cake combines layers of moist sponge, luscious cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a heavenly dessert. If you’re looking to surprise your friends and family with a show-stopping dessert, this is it.

Baking this cake may seem daunting, but it’s quite manageable with the right steps. Plus, the payoff is more than worth it. Imagine slicing into this beauty and savoring the perfect blend of creamy and fruity flavors. If you love strawberries, you’ll fall head over heels for this cake.

For those interested in making a versatile strawberry sauce, check out our strawberry sauce recipe. It pairs wonderfully with many desserts, including this cake. Also, if you aim for a professional finish, consider our Swiss Meringue Buttercream recipe. This buttercream can elevate any homemade cake to bakery-quality status.

Ready to get started? Grab your apron, and let’s dive into the delicious world of baking. This Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake recipe is waiting to stun everyone at your next gathering.

Who Can Make This Recipe, Difficulty Level, What You Need

Are you contemplating making strawberry cream cake from scratch? Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, this recipe is perfect for you. It’s designed to be approachable yet rewarding, offering a delightful baking experience.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

While this recipe falls under the intermediate category, don’t let that intimidate you. The process involves multiple components, including the cake, strawberry filling, and whipped cream frosting. However, with step-by-step guidance, you can master it with ease.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, ensure you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cake pans: Three 9-inch round cake pans will do the trick.
• Mixing bowls: Multiple bowls for different ingredients.
• Electric mixer: Essential for smooth batter and whipped cream.
• Wire rack: Perfect for cooling your cakes evenly.

Having these items on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re looking for more Olive Garden cake recipes, you might find this resource helpful.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and equipment, and dive into perfecting dessert recipes that will impress your friends and family. The joy of creating a beautiful and delicious cake is truly unmatched. If you need more tips on making strawberry cream cake from scratch, don’t hesitate to explore additional resources and guides.

The Ingredients Needed to Make Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Now that we’ve discussed the minimal equipment required, let’s dive into the ingredients for strawberry cream cake. Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect, mouth-watering outcome. Using fresh and high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in your strawberry cream cake ingredients list.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you start, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This ensures they mix evenly, giving you a smoother batter and better texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

If you’re wondering where to find ingredients for Olive Garden desserts, most of them are easily accessible at your local grocery store. If you need substitutions, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Ensure they are thawed and properly drained. If you are out of unsalted butter, salted butter can be used, but skip adding the extra salt in the cake batter.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a delightful homemade version of Olive Garden’s Strawberry Cream Cake. Ready to get started?

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to transition to the fun part: making the cake! Follow these step-by-step strawberry cream cake instructions to create a delicious, Olive Garden-inspired cake recipe that will impress your family and friends.

Preparing the Cake Batter and Baking the Layers

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes don’t stick.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 3: In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Add the dry ingredients to the butter and mix until just combined.

Step 4: Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Strawberry Filling and Tips for Thickening

Step 7: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

Step 8: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries release their juice. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Whipping the Cream to Perfect Consistency

Step 9: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Now that you’ve prepared all the components, you are ready to assemble your strawberry cream cake! Follow the assembly instructions to achieve a beautiful and delicious dessert.

Serving and Storing Ideas and Tips

Congratulations, you’ve mastered the step-by-step guide to making this delightful Strawberry Cream Cake! Now, let’s dive into the specifics of serving and storing this dessert to keep it fresh and delicious.

Serving the Strawberry Cream Cake

When serving your Strawberry Cream Cake, you want to make sure each slice showcases the layers of fluffy cake, luscious strawberry filling, and creamy whipped topping. For the best presentation, use a sharp knife and clean it between slices. This ensures each piece looks as good as it tastes!

Do you have a special occasion coming up? This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or even just a weekend treat. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress your guests. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert, especially during the warmer months.

If you’re looking to elevate your serving experience, pair your cake slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream. The combination of creamy textures and sweet strawberries is simply irresistible.

Storing Cake Tips

To keep your Strawberry Cream Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the moisture of the cake and the freshness of the cream and strawberries. If you don’t have a container large enough, you can cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Planning to make the cake ahead of time? No problem! You can prepare the cake layers and strawberry filling a day in advance. Store the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature, and refrigerate the strawberry filling.

When you’re ready to assemble the cake, whip the cream fresh for the best texture. If you have any leftovers (which we doubt!), they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Remember, the key to a great strawberry cream cake dessert review is enjoying it at its best!

With these serving strawberry cream cake and storing cake tips, you’ll keep your dessert tasting as delightful as the day it was made. Enjoy every bite!

FAQ – Ingredient Replacement Options, Money-Saving Tips, and Relevant Tips

Curious about making adjustments to your Strawberry Cream Cake to fit dietary needs or save a bit of money? You’re in the right place! Below are some popular questions and detailed answers to help you get the most out of your dessert-making experience.

Ingredient Replacement Tips

Q: What can I use as a dairy-free substitute for the heavy cream in the whipped cream?

A: You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative. Chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solidified cream on top. Whip it just like you would with heavy cream. It offers a rich, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.

Q: Can I replace the eggs in the cake recipe?

A: Yes, you can use flaxseed meal as an egg substitute. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This mixture works well as a binder and keeps the cake moist.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch for the strawberry filling?

A: Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are great substitutes for cornstarch. Use them in the same quantity as the recipe calls for cornstarch to achieve the same thickening effect.

Money-Saving Options for Desserts

Q: How can I save money when buying ingredients for the cake?

A: Buying ingredients in bulk can help you save a lot. Look for deals at local grocery stores or wholesale clubs. Also, consider using seasonal strawberries, which are often cheaper and fresher.

Q: Are there any budget-friendly alternatives for some ingredients?

A: Yes, you can use store-brand ingredients instead of name brands. They are often just as good but at a fraction of the price. For example, store-brand butter and sugar can be significantly cheaper without compromising on quality.

Customizing Strawberry Cream Cake

Q: How can I make the cake more personalized to my taste?

A: You can customize the cake by adding different fruits to the filling. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries can add a unique twist. Additionally, you can add a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, to the whipped cream for an adult version of the dessert.

Q: Can I make the cake ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and prepare the strawberry filling a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste. This trick also saves you time on the day of your event.

For more tips and expert advice on making delicious desserts at home, check out Julia’s Plate. Happy baking!