Your favourite jellycat birthday cake in edible cake form! This delightful dessert features fluffy vanilla cake layers filled with luscious strawberry jam, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this cake will impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its charming appearance and delicious flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Fluffy: The vanilla cake layers create a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries elevates the flavor and adds a vibrant touch to every slice.
- Versatile Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or casual get-togethers, this cake fits any celebration.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this treat without fuss.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the fruit toppings or add your favorite flavors to make it uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
To make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start baking. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Cake pans (two 8-inch)
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. Using different sizes helps in organizing your prep work.
- Electric mixer: Makes whipping cream and mixing batter effortless. It saves time and ensures even consistency.
- Cake pans: Proper-sized pans are key for even baking. They help achieve the perfect shape for layer cakes.
Ingredients
Your favourite jellycat birthday cake in edible cake form! Vanilla cake layers with strawberry jam, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries.
For the Cake Layers
- 225 g all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 225 g granulated sugar
- 85 g unsalted butter
- 190 g milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 300 g whipping cream or heavy cream (cold)
- 30 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Assembly
- 1-2 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 4 tablespoons strawberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
- 2-3 fresh strawberries (halved)
- 1 birthday candle (with white and red stripes if possible)
- 20 g dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
How to Make Jellycat Birthday Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Grease two 8-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then stir in:
– Vanilla extract
Mix until fully combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while alternating with milk:
1. Start with half of the dry mix
2. Add half of the milk
3. Repeat until all is combined
Make sure not to overmix; stop when just combined.
Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers
Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Whip Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 10: Assemble Your Jellycat Birthday Cake
Place one cooled layer on a serving plate. Spread strawberry jam on top, followed by whipped cream. Place second layer on top, then repeat with remaining whipped cream and halved strawberries as decoration.
Step 11: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle cocoa powder on top if desired, add chocolate chunks, and place your birthday candle on top before serving.
Enjoy your delightful jellycat birthday cake!
How to Serve Jellycat Birthday Cake
Serving your Jellycat Birthday Cake can be just as fun as making it! This delightful cake is perfect for celebrations and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and visual appeal.
Classic Slice
- A simple slice of the cake is always a winner. Serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness.
Strawberry Garnish
- Add halved fresh strawberries on the side. Their natural sweetness complements the cake and adds a pop of color.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over each slice. This creates an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Birthday Candle Presentation
- Don’t forget to add a festive birthday candle on top when serving at parties! It brings joy and excitement, especially for kids.
Mini Cake Portions
- Cut smaller portions or mini cakes for individual servings. This makes it easier for guests to grab and enjoy at gatherings.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
How to Perfect Jellycat Birthday Cake
To ensure your Jellycat Birthday Cake turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
Sift flour and baking powder: Sifting these dry ingredients prevents lumps in your batter, resulting in a lighter cake.
Do not overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture, which we want to avoid!
Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool fully before adding whipped cream or frosting. This prevents melting and sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Jellycat Birthday Cake
Pairing your Jellycat Birthday Cake with the right side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the moistness of the cake, creating a delightful combination.
Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast, making for an indulgent treat alongside the cake.
Panna Cotta: This light Italian dessert pairs well with fruity flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory balance to the sweetness of the jellycat birthday cake. Consider including mild cheeses like brie or gouda.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea is perfect for those who enjoy sipping while indulging in dessert!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Jellycat Birthday Cake can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Neglecting ingredient temperatures: Always use room temperature eggs and milk. This helps your cake rise properly and ensures a uniform texture.
- Skipping the baking powder: Baking powder is essential for a fluffy cake. Double-check your measurements before mixing to ensure you added enough.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and airy one.
- Not chilling the whipped cream: For perfect whipped cream, make sure it’s cold before whipping. This will help achieve the right consistency.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. An unheated oven can cause uneven baking and affect the final product.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Jellycat Birthday Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Jellycat Birthday Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices in 15-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Jellycat Birthday Cake.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes! You can use any fruit you like, such as blueberries or raspberries, to customize your Jellycat Birthday Cake.
How do I make the cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. This will keep your Jellycat Birthday Cake delicious!
What type of oil should I use?
Light oils like vegetable or canola oil work best, but you could also use melted coconut oil for added flavor in your Jellycat Birthday Cake.
Can I prepare the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and assemble them when ready for serving. This makes your Jellycat Birthday Cake even more convenient.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring freshness for each bite of your Jellycat Birthday Cake!
Final Thoughts
This Jellycat Birthday Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. With its delicious vanilla layers filled with strawberry jam and whipped cream, it’s perfect for any celebration. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or flavors to suit your taste buds!
Jellycat Birthday Cake
Indulge in the delightful taste of Jellycat Birthday Cake, a charming dessert that transforms your favorite childhood treat into an edible masterpiece. This cake features fluffy vanilla layers filled with luscious strawberry jam and topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, creating a refreshing flavor profile perfect for any celebration. Whether it’s for birthdays, picnics, or casual get-togethers, this easy-to-make cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its light texture, vibrant colors, and simple assembly make it a go-to choice for those special moments. Get ready to enchant everyone with this joyful treat that brings smiles to any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 225 g all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 225 g granulated sugar
- 85 g unsalted butter
- 190 g milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 300 g whipping cream or heavy cream (cold)
- 30 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons strawberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
- 2-3 fresh strawberries (halved)
- 1 birthday candle (with white and red stripes if possible)
- 20 g dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while alternating with milk until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with strawberry jam and whipped cream.
- Spread strawberry jam on top of the first layer, followed by whipped cream. Repeat with the second layer and decorate with halved strawberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
