Tropical Strawberry and Pineapple Cake

Tropical Strawberry and Pineapple Cake

Ingredients:

For the cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 ½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup milk

½ cup pineapple juice

For the filling:

1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped

2 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the frosting:

2 cups heavy whipping cream

½ cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Prepare the batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

4. Alternately add the flour mixture and the combined milk & pineapple juice, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until smooth.

5. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter between the two cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

6. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix strawberries, pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.

7. Make the frosting: Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

8. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread half of the fruit filling, and top with whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat. Cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.

9. Garnish with extra strawberries and pineapple on top. Chill for 1 hour before serving.

Enjoy your Tropical Strawberry and Pineapple Cake!