Strawberry Custard Cake With Basil Infused Cream Filling

Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors with this exquisite Strawberry Custard Cake! This isn’t your average cake; it’s a delightful fusion of sweet strawberries, creamy custard, and a surprising hint of fresh basil. The basil-infused cream filling adds an unexpected herbaceous note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the custard. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a truly memorable dessert. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly approachable to make, and we’re here to guide you through every step. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this masterpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 200g (7oz) All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake, all-purpose flour provides structure and a tender crumb. Ensure it’s measured accurately for the best results. Spoon and level the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag.
• 200g (7oz) Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist texture. It also helps with browning during baking.
• 1 tsp (5g) Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, creating a light and airy texture. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal performance.
• ½ tsp (2.5g) Baking Soda: Another leavening agent, baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients (like the strawberries) to create lift.
• ¼ tsp (1.2g) Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• 115g (½ cup) Unsalted Butter, Softened: Softened butter is crucial for creating a light and fluffy cake. It needs to be at room temperature, easily yielding to gentle pressure.
• 2 Large Eggs, Room Temperature: Room temperature eggs emulsify better, creating a smoother batter and a more even texture.
• 120ml (½ cup) Whole Milk: Milk adds moisture to the cake and helps bind the ingredients together. Whole milk provides a richer flavor and texture.
• 1 tsp (5ml) Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding warmth and complexity.
• 150g (1 cup) Fresh Strawberries, Finely Diced: The star of the show! Fresh strawberries provide a burst of sweetness and a beautiful color. Dice them finely to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
• 200ml (¾ cup) Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is essential for creating a rich and luscious custard filling. It should be cold for optimal whipping.
• 200g (7oz) Halal-Certified Cream Cheese, Softened: Cream cheese adds tanginess and creaminess to the filling. Ensure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps. Using halal-certified cream cheese caters to a wider range of dietary needs.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a subtle floral note to the custard filling.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the custard and balances the sweetness.
• 5g (1 tsp) Fresh Basil Leaves, Finely Chopped: The secret ingredient! Fresh basil adds a unique herbaceous flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• 4 Fresh Strawberry Halves (for garnish): For a beautiful finishing touch.
• A Few Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and reinforces the basil flavor.
• Powdered Sugar, for dusting: A delicate finishing touch that adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Ingredient Substitutions

While we recommend using the ingredients as listed for the best results, here are a few substitutions you can make if needed:

• All-Purpose Flour: You can substitute with cake flour for an even more tender crumb, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
• Whole Milk: You can use 2% milk, but the cake may be slightly less moist.
• Fresh Strawberries: In a pinch, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
• Heavy Cream: Whipping cream can be used as a substitute, but it may not whip as stiffly.
• Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative.

Assembling Your Strawberry Custard Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Cake Layers: Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully slice it horizontally into two even layers using a long serrated knife. A gentle sawing motion works best to avoid crumbling.
2. Apply the First Layer of Filling: Spread the chilled basil-infused cream cheese filling evenly over the bottom cake layer. Ensure the filling reaches the edges, but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage when you add the top layer.
3. Combine the Layers: Gently place the top cake layer onto the filling, aligning it carefully with the bottom layer. Apply light pressure to ensure the layers adhere to each other.
4. Decorate with Fresh Strawberries: Arrange the fresh strawberry halves artfully on top of the cake. You can create a circular pattern, a cascading effect, or any design you prefer.
5. Drizzle with Custard (Optional): If you have any remaining basil-infused custard, transfer it to a small piping bag or use a spoon to drizzle it decoratively over the strawberries.
6. Garnish and Finish: Dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate finish. Place a fresh basil leaf beside the custard drizzle for a pop of color and aromatic appeal.
7. Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor and texture, chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly.

The Magic of Basil in Dessert: Why It Works

The addition of basil to this custard cake isn’t just a trendy flavor pairing; it’s a carefully considered element that elevates the entire dessert. Basil contains compounds that enhance the sweetness of strawberries, creating a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. Its slightly peppery and minty notes cut through the richness of the custard and cream cheese, preventing the cake from becoming overly sweet. This unexpected combination offers a refreshing and sophisticated twist on a classic strawberry dessert.

Tips for the Perfect Custard Consistency

Achieving the right custard consistency is crucial for this recipe. The custard should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped or spread, but still smooth and creamy. To ensure success, remember to temper the egg yolks gradually with the warm cream mixture. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Continuously stir the custard over low heat, and use the back-of-a-spoon test – when the custard coats the spoon and leaves a clear line when you run your finger through it, it’s ready. Don’t overcook, as this can result in a grainy texture.

Strawberry Selection: Choosing the Best Berries

The quality of your strawberries will significantly impact the final flavor of the cake. Opt for ripe, fragrant strawberries that are deep red in color. Local, in-season strawberries are always the best choice, as they will have the most intense flavor. If using store-bought strawberries, look for ones that are firm and dry, with fresh green caps. Avoid strawberries that are bruised or moldy.

Storing Your Strawberry Custard Cake

Leftover Strawberry Custard Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be aware that the cake may become slightly softer over time due to the moisture from the strawberries and custard. To maintain its freshness, you can wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are highly recommended, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before dicing. The flavor may not be as vibrant as with fresh berries.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, the basil-infused custard can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before blending with the cream cheese.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

While cream cheese provides a unique tang and texture, you can experiment with mascarpone cheese as a substitute. However, the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Custard Cake with Basil-Infused Cream Filling is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy custard, and fragrant basil creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board for easy access later! Save to Pinterest!

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