The Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake is a beloved dessert. Its creamy texture and fresh strawberry topping make it a standout. If you’ve ever wished to recreate this delight at home, you’re in the right place. This guide will reveal the secrets behind this cake and walk you through the recipe step by step.

Why Is Olive Garden’s Strawberry Cream Cake So Popular

This cake is the perfect blend of flavors. The soft sponge cake pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and the sweetness of strawberries. It’s not too heavy, making it ideal for any occasion. The secret lies in its simplicity and balance of ingredients.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Cake

To achieve the same taste as Olive Garden, you’ll need specific ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Cake Base
   • All-purpose flour
   • Baking powder
   • Granulated sugar
   • Eggs
   • Vanilla extract
   • Whole milk
2. Cream Filling
   • Heavy whipping cream
   • Powdered sugar
   • Cream cheese (softened)
   • Vanilla extract
3. Strawberry Topping
   • Fresh strawberries
   • Sugar
   • Lemon juice
4. Glaze
   • Strawberry preserves
   • Water

These ingredients are simple yet effective. The quality of strawberries and cream makes all the difference.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Cake pans (9-inch round)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Saucepan for glaze

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the recipe. Follow these instructions carefully to get the best results.

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• In another bowl, beat 1 cup of sugar with 4 large eggs until fluffy.
• Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of milk to the egg mixture. Mix well.
• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Do not overmix.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack.

3. Prepare the Cream Filling

• Beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with ½ cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
• In a separate bowl, mix 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

4. Create the Strawberry Topping

• Slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries.
• In a small bowl, mix the strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
• Let this sit for 10 minutes to release the juices.

5. Make the Glaze

• In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup of strawberry preserves with 2 tablespoons of water.
• Stir until smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

6. Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread half of the cream filling evenly on top.
• Arrange half of the sliced strawberries over the cream.
• Add the second cake layer on top.
• Spread the remaining cream filling and strawberries.
• Drizzle the cooled glaze over the strawberries for a shiny finish.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh strawberries. Their sweetness and texture make a big difference.
• Chill the cream filling. This helps it hold its shape better.
• Don’t skip the glaze. It enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is best served chilled. Allow it to set in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect dessert experience.

Storing Your Cake

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture of the cream filling.

Variations to Try

While this recipe stays true to the Olive Garden original, you can experiment with these variations:

1. Chocolate Twist
   Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and cream filling for a richer flavor.
2. Berry Mix
   Use a mix of berries, such as raspberries and blueberries, for the topping.
3. Citrus Zest
   Add a hint of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a citrusy aroma.

Why Make This Cake at Home

Homemade cakes have a personal touch. They’re fresher, more flavorful, and customizable. Plus, recreating Olive Garden’s Strawberry Cream Cake is a rewarding experience. You’ll impress your family and friends with this masterpiece.

Conclusion

Now you know the secret to Olive Garden’s Strawberry Cream Cake. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers incredible flavor. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual dessert, this cake will never disappoint.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the satisfaction of making an iconic dessert at home. Happy baking!