Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake is a gorgeous, multi-layered dessert that combines fluffy vanilla cake with fresh strawberry flavors in a mesmerizing ombre effect. This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any special occasion where you want a showstopping treat that tastes as good as it looks.
With its gradual color transition, creamy frosting, and moist texture, this Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake is both elegant and delicious. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a stunning masterpiece right in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake
✅ Beautiful Ombre Layers – A stunning color gradient in every slice.
✅ Delicious Flavor Combination – Vanilla and fresh strawberry blend perfectly.
✅ Moist & Fluffy Texture – The perfect soft and tender cake.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple step-by-step instructions for success.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for birthdays, weddings, and celebrations.
Ingredients for Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake
For the Cake Layers:
✔️ 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for a soft, fluffy cake.
✔️ 2 ½ tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
✔️ ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
✔️ 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
✔️ 2 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and creates a light texture.
✔️ 5 large eggs – Provides structure and moisture.
✔️ 1 tbsp vanilla extract – Enhances the vanilla flavor.
✔️ 1 cup whole milk – Ensures a tender crumb.
✔️ ½ cup fresh strawberry puree – Adds natural strawberry flavor.
✔️ Pink and red food coloring – For the ombre effect.
For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:
✔️ 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened – The base for creamy frosting.
✔️ 5 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and creates a smooth texture.
✔️ ½ cup fresh strawberry puree – Infuses real fruit flavor.
✔️ 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste.
✔️ ¼ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
2️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3️⃣ In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4️⃣ Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5️⃣ Mix in vanilla extract and milk, alternating with dry ingredients, until fully combined.
Step 2: Create the Ombre Layers
1️⃣ Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
2️⃣ Leave one portion plain (vanilla layer).
3️⃣ Add a small amount of strawberry puree and pink food coloring to the second portion.
4️⃣ Mix more strawberry puree and red food coloring into the third portion for the darkest layer.
5️⃣ Pour each batter into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
1️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2️⃣ Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make Strawberry Buttercream Frosting
Step 1: Prepare the Buttercream
1️⃣ In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy and smooth.
2️⃣ Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.
3️⃣ Pour in strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt, then beat until fluffy.
Step 2: Assemble & Decorate the Cake
1️⃣ Place the darkest strawberry cake layer on a serving plate.
2️⃣ Spread a thin layer of strawberry buttercream frosting over the top.
3️⃣ Add the medium pink cake layer and repeat the process.
4️⃣ Top with the vanilla layer and coat the entire cake with a thin crumb coat.
5️⃣ Refrigerate for 20 minutes, then apply the final smooth layer of frosting.
6️⃣ Use an offset spatula to blend the ombre effect by adding darker pink frosting towards the bottom and fading to lighter pink at the top.
Serving Suggestions for Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake
🍓 With Fresh Strawberries – Adds a juicy and vibrant touch.
🍦 With Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy contrast to the soft cake.
☕ With a Cup of Tea or Coffee – A perfect pairing for a sweet treat.
🍫 With a Drizzle of White Chocolate – For extra indulgence.
For more stunning cake recipes, check out Baptist Pound Cake with Caramel Icing or Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake.
For external baking tips, visit The Ultimate Cake Baking Guide
More Recipes
Looking for more delicious homemade recipes? Try these:
🍰 Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce – A savory, satisfying meal.
🧁 Homemade Mozzarella Cheese – Perfect for cheese lovers.
🍯 High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken – A flavorful protein-packed dish.
🥗 Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry – A nutritious and flavorful meal.
🍞 Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels – A cheesy, baked delight.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake
✔️ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter.
✔️ Don’t Overmix – Prevents a dense texture.
✔️ Chill Before Frosting – Helps layers stay firm.
✔️ Use High-Quality Vanilla & Strawberries – Enhances flavor.
✔️ Smooth the Ombre Frosting with an Offset Spatula – Creates a seamless look.
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Strawberry Ombre Cake is a stunning, flavorful, and easy-to-make dessert that will impress your guests. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a special celebration, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper!
🔥 Would you try this recipe? Drop a 🍰🍓✨ in the comments!
📌 Save & share this recipe with fellow cake lovers!
🚀 #VanillaStrawberryOmbreCake #LayeredCake #BakingLovers #HomemadeDesserts