Preheat your oven to 180 °C (160 °C if fan-assisted). Grease three 18 cm round cake tins (or a single larger one) with a bit of butter, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl (or stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color — about 3–5 minutes. Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition so the batter stays smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gently fold in the self-raising flour (or sifted flour + baking powder) in small batches, alternating with the yogurt to keep the batter smooth and moist. Be careful not to overmix — you want the batter airy, not dense.

Finally, gently fold half of the prepared strawberries into the batter, using a spatula so they don’t break too much. Divide the batter evenly into the prepared tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

Bake for 25–30 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean — if bits of batter cling, bake an extra 5 minutes). Let the cakes cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely.

For the frosting: beat the softened butter until creamy, then add the soft cheese and half the icing sugar. Continue mixing until smooth, then gradually add the rest of the icing sugar until you have a thick but spreadable frosting. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to assemble.

Assemble the cake: place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread a thin layer of jam (if using), then a generous layer of frosting, and some sliced strawberries. Add the second layer of cake, more frosting, and more strawberries. Top with remaining frosting and decorate with whole or halved strawberries. Chill for about 1–2 hours before serving for the flavors to meld.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

It’s a celebration of strawberry season — the fresh fruit gives bright, natural sweetness and a lovely aroma.

Soft, buttery sponge meets creamy frosting: the contrast of textures — moist cake, smooth frosting, juicy fruit — feels like a cozy hug in every bite.

Looks as good as it tastes: a cake topped with fresh strawberries always draws “ooohs” and “aahs.”

Great for any occasion: birthdays, family gatherings, tea time, or simply to treat yourself on a quiet afternoon.

Vegetarian-friendly and versatile: no gelatin or strange additives — just straightforward, simple ingredients.