Vanilla Layer Cake with Strawberries

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

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, combine 2 3/4 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk, mixing just until incorporated. Gently fold in the strawberries.
4. Spread the batter into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. In a medium bowl, mix together the jam and 1 tablespoon of flour until smooth. Spread over the top of the cooled cake.

Interesting Facts

• The vanilla layer cake with strawberries is a classic American dessert. It's perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to dinner parties.
• Adding the flour to the jam helps to evenly spread it over the cake and gives the cake a nice, even finish.
• The strawberries in the cake give it a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the vanilla.