Strawberry Filling For Wedding Cakes: A Step-By-Step Guide

A strawberry-filled wedding cake is a delightful choice for a summer wedding. This fruit filling is easy to make and can be prepared in advance – it will keep in the fridge for up to a week. The filling is made by heating strawberries, sugar, cornstarch and lemon juice until thickened. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries, but be aware that frozen fruit may take longer to cook. This recipe makes enough filling for a three-layer, six-inch cake or a two-layer, eight-inch cake. For a wedding cake, you will need to scale up the recipe accordingly.

Choosing the right strawberries

Fresh or Frozen Strawberries:

You can use either fresh or frozen strawberries for your filling. Fresh strawberries are a great choice if they are in season and you can find big, juicy, naturally sweet ones. However, frozen strawberries can be more convenient and are usually picked during peak season, so they tend to be sweeter. If you decide to use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them before using and add a little extra cornstarch to adjust for the extra liquid.

Quantity of Strawberries:

The amount of strawberries you will need depends on the size of your wedding cake and the desired intensity of the strawberry flavor. As a guide, a cup of hulled and chopped strawberries yields about 150 grams. For a strong strawberry flavor and a vibrant red color, aim for a higher proportion of strawberries relative to the other ingredients.

Strawberry Quality:

When selecting your strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, with a shiny, plump appearance. Avoid strawberries that are overly soft, have bruised or cut areas, or show signs of mold. Ripe strawberries should have a sweet aroma and be free of leaves and stems.

Taste Testing:

Before committing to a large batch, consider testing a small quantity of your chosen strawberries. This will allow you to assess their sweetness and tartness. If the strawberries are too sour, you can adjust by adding a little extra sugar to your filling. Conversely, if they are very sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in your recipe.

Preparation and Chopping:

You have the option to leave your strawberries whole or chop them into smaller pieces. Chopping the strawberries will result in a faster cooking time, but it also requires more preparation time. If you decide to chop them, aim for small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Remember, the quality of your strawberries will significantly impact the flavor and appearance of your wedding cake filling. Taking the time to select the right strawberries and prepare them properly will ensure a delicious and visually appealing result.

Preparing the strawberries

Firstly, wash and hull your strawberries, removing any leaves or green parts. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries, but if you're using frozen, make sure they are completely thawed before starting. You may also want to chop the strawberries into smaller pieces to speed up the cooking process.

Next, place your strawberries in a wide pan over medium heat. Add lemon juice and sugar, stirring well to combine. The lemon juice will add a lovely tartness to your filling, balancing out the sweetness of the strawberries and sugar. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for around 4-5 minutes, until the mixture comes to a boil.

Once the strawberries are tender, uncover the pan and use a fork or the back of a spoon to smash them roughly. You can leave the mixture chunky or puree it for a smoother filling, depending on your preference.

Now it's time to thicken your filling. In a separate bowl, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with water. Cornstarch is a thickening agent that will help your filling set and ensure it doesn't bleed into your cake layers. Slowly add the slurry to the pan, continuously stirring the mixture. You should notice the filling start to thicken within a few seconds.

At this point, you can add a little extra water if the mixture is too thick. The consistency should be thick but not runny, as it will continue to thicken as it cools. Keep stirring the filling for another minute, then remove it from the heat.

Allow your strawberry filling to cool completely before using it. It will continue to thicken as it cools, turning into a thick jam-like consistency. This filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

And that's it! You now have a delicious, thick strawberry filling that's ready to be used in your wedding cake.

Making the filling

Strawberry cake filling is a basic homemade sauce that can be used in between cake layers or as a topping. It is made using just a few simple ingredients and takes hardly any time to prepare. The ingredients are also inexpensive, and you will be left with several cups of delicious homemade fruit filling that can be used for other recipes.

To make the filling, you will need the following ingredients: strawberries (fresh or frozen), sugar (fine sugar is preferable), lemon juice (fresh lemon only), and cornstarch (also known as cornflour). You will also need water to create a cornstarch slurry.

Start by adding the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice to a saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring often, until the strawberries soften and start to break apart easily. You do not need to thaw the strawberries if using frozen ones.

Once the strawberries are softened, do a taste test to check if the sweetness and tartness are to your liking. If the mixture is too tart, add more sugar, and if it is too sweet, add more lemon juice.

After you are satisfied with the taste, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with water. Add this slurry to the saucepan and mix well to ensure there are no lumps. Continue stirring the mixture until it thickens. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes from the start.

Transfer the prepared filling to a separate container and cover it with cling wrap, ensuring the film touches the surface of the filling to prevent skin formation. Allow the mixture to cool completely before using it as a filling or topping.

You can adjust the consistency of the filling by adding a little water and reheating it if needed. For a cake filling, make sure the filling is thick so that it does not bleed through the cake layers. For toppings on cheesecakes or other desserts, you may prefer a slightly thinner, syrup-like consistency.

Adding the filling to the cake

Now that you have your strawberry filling ready, it's time to assemble your wedding cake! Here is a step-by-step guide on adding the filling to your cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Before you start filling your cake, make sure your cake layers are completely cooled. If your cake is still warm, the filling might melt, creating a messy situation. Place your cake layers on a flat surface and level them if necessary. You can use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops and ensure that your layers are even.

Step 2: Create a "Cake Dam"

To prevent the strawberry filling from leaking out of the sides of your cake, it's essential to create a "cake dam." Pipe a ring of frosting around the outer edge of each cake layer. This will act as a barrier and keep the filling in the centre of the cake. You can use buttercream, Swiss meringue, or any frosting of your choice for this step.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Filling

Now it's time to add the star of the show—your homemade strawberry filling! Spoon the filling onto the centre of each cake layer, being careful not to overfill. You don't want the filling to overflow and ruin your beautiful cake design. Spread the filling evenly, leaving about a half-inch border from the edge of the cake layer.

Step 4: Stack the Cake Layers

Once you've filled one layer, it's time to stack the next cake layer on top. Gently place the next layer on top of the filled layer, making sure to centre it properly. Repeat this process until you've added all your cake layers and filling.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

After stacking all your layers, it's time to frost the entire cake. Apply a thin coat of frosting, also known as a crumb coat, and chill the cake for about an hour before applying the final coat of frosting. This will help create a smooth finish and prevent any crumbs from showing in your final product.

Decorate your wedding cake as desired. You can keep it simple with a smooth buttercream finish or add some fresh strawberries and flowers for a rustic, elegant look.

Storage and Serving

Your strawberry-filled wedding cake should be stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It's best to allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance the flavours and create a softer texture. Enjoy your delicious creation, and congratulations on your special day!

Storing and serving the cake

Storing and serving a strawberry wedding cake is a crucial part of the process. Here are some detailed tips to ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious:

Storing the Cake:

• Refrigeration is key: Wedding cakes with strawberry filling should be stored in the fridge at all times. This helps keep the cake fresh and prevents the filling from spoiling.
• Use airtight containers: Store any leftover cake in airtight containers or well-wrapped in plastic wrap. This will help keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out.
• Optimal storage time: Aim to consume the cake within 3 to 5 days of refrigeration. While it can be stored for a more extended period, it's best to enjoy it while it's freshest.

Serving the Cake:

• Bring to room temperature: Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for optimal flavour and texture. Remove it from the fridge at least an hour before serving, depending on the size of the cake.
• Presentation matters: When serving, consider adding fresh blooms or other decorations to match the wedding's aesthetic. This will enhance the overall presentation and make it even more memorable.
• Cut with a sharp knife: To ensure clean slices, use a sharp knife and a steady hand when cutting the cake. Wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices to ensure a clean presentation.
• Accompany with refreshments: Offer coffee, tea, or other refreshing beverages to complement the cake. This will enhance the overall dining experience for your guests.
• Enjoy within a few days: While the cake can be stored for up to 5 days, it's best enjoyed within the first few days to savour its freshness and flavour.

Frequently asked questions