Imagine a delicate cloud of cake, light as air, infused with the sweet, vibrant essence of strawberries. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary journey, a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary flavors. Welcome to the world of the Strawberry Dream Cake.
Ingredients:
Strawberry Trifle with Angel Food Cake Recipe
Image Source: gritsandpinecones.com
For the Cake:
1 cup cake flour
1 1/2 cups superfine granulated sugar
12 large egg whites, room temperature
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Filling:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Process:
1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10-inch tube pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the cream of tartar and salt, beating until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites in three batches, alternating with the vanilla extract.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a wire rack.
3. Make the Strawberry Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Let the sauce cool completely.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting:
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Cake:
Once the cake is completely cooled, level the top if necessary.
Spread the strawberry filling over the cooled cake.
Top with the whipped cream frosting, spreading it evenly.
Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Serving Ideas:
Classic: Serve the cake as is, a timeless and elegant dessert.
Modern: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of edible gold leaf for a touch of luxury.
Summery: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a side of fresh berries.
Decadent: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and the frosting.
A Fusion of Flavors
This Strawberry Dream Cake is a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from classic European techniques, such as the delicate angel food cake, and infuses it with the vibrant, fresh flavors of American cuisine. The strawberry filling, a nod to the timeless summer dessert, adds a burst of sweetness and tanginess. The whipped cream frosting, a staple in both European and American pastry traditions, provides a light and airy contrast to the rich cake and filling.
This dessert is more than just a combination of ingredients; it’s a celebration of culinary artistry, a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
