Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a stand mixer (or hand mixer), combine sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and both extracts. Beat until mixed.
- Add the sour cream and mix until well-blended.
- Gradually add half of the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Slowly add the milk, then the remaining flour mixture.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl—this is crucial! Be careful not to overmix!
- Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and grease them. Lightly tap the pans to release air bubbles from the batter.
Baking
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes clean. Rotate the pans if necessary for even baking.
- Cool completely on a rack.
Filling and Frosting
- Combine the sliced strawberries and jam and set aside. Slice about 2½ cups for the filling and dice another ½ cup for topping.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream while mixing. Increase speed to high and whip until you reach stiff peaks. Keep it cold throughout for best results.
Assembly
- On a plate, place one layer of cake and top with one-third of the frosting and 1¼ cups of sliced strawberries.
- Add the second layer of cake and repeat. For the top layer, spread the remaining frosting and sprinkle with diced strawberries. Decorate with whole strawberries if you like!
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let it set.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a fluffier batter. Chill your bowl for whipping cream to achieve stiff peaks faster. Experiment with flavors like lemon zest for an extra zing.
