Strawberry Dream Cake II

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/4 cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 9 inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. 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, milk and almond extract. Beat in the flour mixture until just blended.
3. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
4. Let the cakes cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes before attempting to remove them. Place the cooled cakes on a plate or cake stand and spread the strawberry jam between the layers. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the whipping cream, vanilla and remaining strawberries until the frosting is desired consistency.
5. Spread the frosting over the cake and garnish with remaining strawberries.

Interesting Facts

• Strawberry Dream Cake II was created by a chef in the United States in the 1940s.
• This cake is a popular dessert in the United States and is served at many celebrations.
• Strawberries are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet.