Olive Garden’s Strawberry Cream Cake is a luscious dessert featuring layers of soft sponge cake, rich cream cheese frosting, and a vibrant strawberry topping. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat at home, this cake is both elegant and delicious.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Light and fluffy: The sponge cake is airy and perfectly balanced with the creamy frosting.
Rich flavors: Combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberries.
Simple ingredients: Easy to make with pantry staples and fresh fruit.
Show-stopping dessert: Perfect for celebrations or impressing guests.
Customizable: Easily adaptable for different flavors and toppings.

What Is Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake?

Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake is a layered dessert with a moist sponge cake base, creamy frosting, and a sweet strawberry topping. It’s known for its light texture and refreshing flavors.

Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake Ingredients

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour: 2 cups
Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter: ½ cup (softened)
Granulated sugar: 1½ cups
Eggs: 3 large
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Milk: 1 cup

For the Cream Filling:

Cream cheese: 8 oz (softened)
Powdered sugar: ¾ cup
Heavy cream: 1½ cups (cold)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

For the Strawberry Topping:

Strawberries: 1½ cups (sliced)
Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Make the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Filling

Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.

Make the Strawberry Topping

In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes to macerate.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cream filling evenly over the top.
Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining cream filling on top and around the sides of the cake.
Arrange the macerated strawberries on top of the cake for a beautiful finish.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Slice and enjoy!

What to Serve with Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Fresh berries: Serve with additional fresh strawberries or a mix of berries.
Whipped cream: Add a dollop for extra creaminess.
Vanilla ice cream: Pair with a scoop for a decadent treat.
Coffee or tea: A perfect beverage companion for this dessert.

Expert Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Use room-temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth and even batter.
Don’t overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the cake fluffy.
Chill the cream filling: Keep the filling cold for easier spreading and assembly.
Slice strawberries thinly: Thin slices ensure an even topping layer.
Refrigerate before serving: Chilling the cake helps the flavors blend and makes slicing easier.

Variations of Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Add chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a richer flavor.
Use other fruits: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Make it lemony: Add lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrus twist.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Cupcake version: Make individual strawberry cream cupcakes for easier serving.

How to Store Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 28g

FAQs

How do I make the cream filling for Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake fluffier?

To make the cream filling fluffier, ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping it. Whip until stiff peaks form, and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the airy texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mixing them with sugar and lemon juice to avoid making the topping too watery.

How do I keep the cake moist?

To keep the cake moist, avoid overbaking and let it cool completely before adding the filling. You can also brush the cake layers with a light syrup made from sugar and water for extra moisture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the filling?

Mascarpone cheese is an excellent substitute for cream cheese. It has a slightly milder flavor and creamy texture that works well in the filling.

Final Words

Olive Garden Strawberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. Its layers of fluffy cake, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry topping make it a standout treat for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess!