Why Make This Jellycat Birthday Cake
This Jellycat Birthday Cake is not just any ordinary cake; it’s a delightful and whimsical creation that’s sure to brighten up any celebration. Inspired by the charming Jellycat stuffed animals, this cake combines layers of fluffy vanilla sponge with rich strawberry jam and fresh whipped cream. The vibrant, inviting look of this cake, coupled with its sweet and fruity flavors, makes it the perfect centerpiece for birthdays or any special occasion. It’s easy to make but delivers on taste and presentation, ensuring your guests will be reaching for seconds.
How to Make Jellycat Birthday Cake
Creating this lovely Jellycat Birthday Cake is straightforward, making it a great choice for bakers at any skill level. With just a few simple steps, you will be able to whip up a cake that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful. Follow these directions carefully, and don’t hesitate to experiment a little if the mood strikes you!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 2 cups whipped cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry jam on top of one cake layer, then add a layer of whipped cream, followed by fresh strawberries.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the layering if desired. Decorate the top with remaining whipped cream and strawberries.
- Slice and serve. Enjoy your jellycat birthday cake!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 270
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
How to Serve Jellycat Birthday Cake
Slice this delightful cake into generous portions, and consider serving it with additional whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It’s perfect for a birthday party, a family gathering, or even as a sweet surprise on a quiet afternoon. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon snack that everyone will enjoy!
How to Store Jellycat Birthday Cake
To keep your Jellycat Birthday Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits!
Expert Tips for Perfect Jellycat Birthday Cake
- Butter Softness: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar for the best texture.
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs to help the batter mix together more smoothly.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter until just combined to keep the cake light and airy.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
Delicious Variations
- Different Flavors: Substitute the strawberry jam with raspberry, blueberry, or peach jam to switch things up!
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, between the layers for added crunch.
- Chocolate Version: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolate-flavored cake and complement it with chocolate whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, cake flour can make for a lighter cake, which is great for this recipe. Just substitute it in equal amounts.
How can I make it gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free too.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, thawed frozen strawberries work beautifully. Pat them dry before layering to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
This Jellycat Birthday Cake is a true showstopper that is both simple to make and utterly delightful to eat. It’s perfect for celebrating special moments or simply treating yourself and your loved ones. The combination of soft cake, luscious jam, and whipped cream is bound to create smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients and get baking! We’d love to hear how your Jellycat Birthday Cake turns out, so don’t forget to share your creations!
Jellycat Birthday Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry jam on top of one cake layer.
- Add a layer of whipped cream, followed by fresh strawberries.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the layering if desired.
- Decorate the top with remaining whipped cream and strawberries.
- Slice and serve. Enjoy your Jellycat Birthday Cake!