### Perfecting Your Banana Cream Cake with Strawberry Cream Filling Recipe
#### Introduction to the Delightful Combination
Combine the rich, creamy texture of a banana cream cake with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberry cream filling in this delightful recipe. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and can be easily adapted for various dietary needs.
#### Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (18.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
#### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Loaf pan
- Piping bag (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions for Banana Cream Cake with Strawberry Filling
#### Preparing the Base Layer: Banana Layer
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
2. **Mix Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. **Add Cake Mix:** Stir in the yellow cake mix until well combined but do not overmix.
4. **Bake Base Layer:** Pour batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
#### Assembling the Strawberry Cream Filling
1. **Whip Cream:** In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon juice until stiff peaks form.
2. **Prepare Strawberries:** Slice strawberries into thin rounds and set aside.
#### Layering Your Cake
1. **Cool Base Layer:** Once your banana cake is done baking, allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before inverting onto a cooling rack.
2. **Apply Filling:** Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over one side of the cooled cake base layer.
3. **Add Strawberries:** Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream filling.
#### Adding the Final Banana Layer
1. **Place Second Layer:** Place the second banana layer on top of the strawberry filling, ensuring it is aligned with the edges for a clean look.
2. **Smooth Top:** Use a spatula to smooth out any bumps or imperfections in the cake surface.
#### Optional Decoration & Serving
- If you prefer, use a piping bag to create decorative designs on the top layer of your cake.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
#### Tips & Tricks
- For a richer flavor, consider using fresh bananas instead of pre-mashed ones.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for optimal results.
- To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter.
### Conclusion: Elevate Your Dessert Game
This banana cream cake with strawberry filling is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Perfect your technique to impress friends and family or treat yourself to a delightful home-cooked dessert that will surely become a favorite recipe in your culinary arsenal.