Welcome to a dessert dream come true: Strawberry Shortcake Banana Pudding Cake Delight! This fun recipe combines sweet strawberries and ripe bananas with rich vanilla cake and creamy pudding. I’ll guide you through each step to create a cake that’s perfect for any gathering. Don't miss out on a delightful treat that pleases every palate. Let’s dig into the ingredients and get started on this tasty journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of strawberries and bananas creates a refreshing and fruity flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: This cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Gatherings: With its beautiful layers and vibrant colors, this cake is sure to impress guests at parties and celebrations.
- Chilled Delight: Chilling the cake enhances the flavors and gives it a delightful, creamy texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Fresh Fruits
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
Cake and Pudding Base
- 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream (either store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Using fresh fruits makes this cake special. The strawberries add a sweet, juicy burst. The bananas bring a creamy texture that complements the cake. Together, they create a fun flavor mix.
The cake and pudding base is simple yet effective. The vanilla cake mix gives a light taste. The eggs, oil, and water blend into a soft batter. The instant vanilla pudding thickens easily. It adds a rich creaminess to the layers.
For toppings, whipped cream is a must. You can use store-bought for ease. Or, you can whip your own for more flavor. Fresh mint leaves brighten the look. They also add a hint of freshness to each slice.
Gather these ingredients and prepare for a delicious treat. The blend of fruit, cake, and cream makes this dessert truly delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Make the Cake Batter
- Combine cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water in a bowl.
- Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
Baking the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Prepare the Pudding
- Whisk the instant pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Assemble the Cake
- Layer the first cake with pudding, strawberries, bananas, and whipped cream.
- Place the second cake on top and repeat the layering.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour.
- Garnish with additional fruit and mint leaves before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Cake Texture Tips
To get a moist cake, use fresh ingredients. Eggs should be at room temperature. This helps the batter blend well. Make sure you measure your oil and water correctly. Too much or too little can change the texture. Also, do not over-mix the batter. Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Cooling time matters a lot. After baking, let your cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom. Cooling the cakes completely is key for easy layering.
Pudding Consistency
To avoid lumps in your pudding, whisk it well. Use a whisk and mix the instant pudding and milk for two full minutes. This ensures a smooth texture. If you prefer cooked pudding, remember to follow the package directions carefully. Cooked pudding can add a richer flavor, but it takes longer.
Instant pudding is great for a quick dessert. It thickens fast and makes layering easy. Choose the one that fits your time and taste.
Whipped Cream Suggestions
When it comes to whipped cream, you have choices. Store-bought whipped cream is quick and easy. But homemade whipped cream tastes fresher. If making your own, use cold cream for the best results.
To stabilize whipped cream, add a bit of powdered sugar. This helps it hold up better. Another option is to use gelatin or cornstarch. These will keep your whipped cream fluffy longer, especially in a layered cake.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and bananas will enhance the flavor and texture of your cake. Try to select ripe but firm fruits for the best results.
- Chill for Better Flavor: Allow the assembled cake to chill for at least one hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the pudding to set properly.
- Layer Wisely: When layering your cake, ensure that the pudding and fruit are evenly distributed. This will help maintain balance and prevent the layers from sliding apart.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves and additional fruit on top of the cake not only adds color but also enhances the visual appeal of your dessert.
Variations
Flavor Options
You can add fun flavors to your cake. Mix in flavored extracts like almond or coconut. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste. If you want something richer, try using chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla. It adds a nice twist to your cake.
Fruit Alternatives
While strawberries and bananas are great, you can switch them out. Try using peaches or blueberries for a new taste. You can also use seasonal fruits for freshness. Fresh cherries or raspberries work well, depending on what's in season.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer tasty mixes that work well. For a vegan dessert, substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal. Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk. These swaps keep the cake delicious and friendly for various diets.
Storage Info
Storing the Cake
To keep your cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out and keeps it tasty. The cake stays good in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the flavors may fade.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this cake too! For best results, freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and foil. This method helps keep the cake moist. You can also freeze the whole cake. Just make sure it is well-wrapped. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture soft and nice.
Shelf Life
The pudding and whipped cream have a shorter shelf life. The pudding lasts for about 3 days in the fridge. The whipped cream can stay fresh for 2 days. Watch for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has a strange texture, throw it away. Always check before serving to avoid any surprises!
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake a day ahead. Just prepare the cake layers and pudding. Assemble it when you are ready. Chill it in the fridge for at least one hour. This will help the flavors blend well.
What can I substitute for whipped cream?
If you need a non-dairy option, use coconut whipped cream. It has a nice texture and flavor. You can also try whipped topping made from almond or soy milk. These options work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the cakes are done baking?
Look for a few signs of doneness. The cake should spring back when pressed lightly. The edges will start to pull away from the pans. The top will be a light golden brown.
Can I use frozen strawberries or bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit. Frozen strawberries and bananas can work well in this cake. They may alter the cake's texture slightly. The flavor remains delicious, but fresh fruit gives more crunch.
What should I do if the pudding doesn’t thicken?
If your pudding is runny, try whisking it longer. It may need more time to set. Make sure you used cold milk. If it still won’t thicken, add a bit more pudding mix and whisk again.
In this post, I shared an easy recipe for a delicious layered cake. You learned how to use fresh fruits, cake and pudding base, and tasty toppings. I included tips to ensure your cake comes out moist and flavorful. Remember, you can customize it with different fruits or flavors to suit your taste. This cake is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and impressing your friends and family with your baking skills!
