Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups (180g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the white chocolate buttercream:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the strawberry topping:
– 1 cup (120g) sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the cheesecake layer:
– 12 ounces (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Make the cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
3. Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Make the white chocolate buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Beat in the melted white chocolate and vanilla extract.
5. Make the strawberry topping: In a small bowl, mix together sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
6. Make the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Beat in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
7. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cheesecake mixture on top. Top with a layer of white chocolate buttercream, followed by a layer of strawberry topping. Repeat the process two more times, ending with a layer of white chocolate buttercream on top.
8. Decorate the cake: Decorate the cake with additional sliced strawberries and white chocolate shavings, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
– Use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor.
– Add a sprinkle of salt to the cheesecake layer to balance the sweetness.
– Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
– Experiment with different flavors, such as adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the cake batter.