# What You'll Need:
→ Vanilla cake
01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Strawberries
09 - 1 1/2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
10 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
→ Whipped cream
12 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
13 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and lightly flour a 9x9-inch baking pan and set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
04 - Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
05 - Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan on a rack, then cut the cake into 1-inch cubes.
06 - Combine sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Toss to coat and let sit at room temperature at least 20 minutes so the fruit releases its juices.
07 - Using an electric mixer, beat the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Avoid overwhipping; stop when the cream holds gentle peaks.
08 - In individual glasses or a large trifle dish, layer cubed cake, a portion of macerated strawberries with their juices, and a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top.
09 - Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours to meld flavors. If chilled longer, allow a few minutes at room temperature before serving for best texture.
