Introduction
Strawberry Cake with White Brigadeiro is a rich and creamy Brazilian-inspired layer cake made with a soft vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries, and a luscious white brigadeiro filling. Each layer is lightly moistened with a simple condensed milk syrup before being generously filled with creamy brigadeiro and juicy strawberries.
The combination of tender cake, sweet milk-based cream, and fresh strawberries makes this dessert perfect for birthdays, family celebrations, holidays, and special occasions. After a few hours in the refrigerator, the flavors come together beautifully and the cake becomes wonderfully moist and creamy.
Origin and Cultural Significance
White brigadeiro, or brigadeiro branco, is a variation of Brazil’s beloved brigadeiro, a traditional sweet made with condensed milk and commonly prepared for celebrations.
Unlike the classic chocolate version, white brigadeiro uses milk-based ingredients to create a creamy, pale filling. Pairing it with fresh strawberries is especially popular in Brazilian-style celebration cakes, where fruit and creamy fillings are often layered between soft sponge cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
For the White Brigadeiro
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (about 7–8 oz) carton heavy cream or table cream
- 4 tablespoons powdered milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 trays fresh strawberries, chopped
For the Syrup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
Optional Additions
- Powdered milk for dusting
- White chocolate shavings for decoration
- Whole strawberries for the top
- Fresh whipped cream for additional decoration
- A small amount of vanilla extract in the cake batter
- White chocolate curls for an elegant finish
Tips for Success
- Beat the eggs and sugar well: This helps create a lighter and softer sponge.
- Don’t overmix the flour: Mix only until the batter is smooth to avoid developing too much gluten.
- Cook the brigadeiro gently: Keep the heat low and stir continuously to prevent scorching.
- Let the brigadeiro cool: Allow the filling to cool until warm or room temperature before assembling the cake.
- Use fresh, firm strawberries: They hold their shape better between the layers.
- Don’t oversoak the cake: Apply enough syrup to make the sponge moist without making it soggy.
- Chill before serving: The 3-hour refrigeration period helps the layers set and makes the cake easier to slice.
- For cleaner slices: Refrigerate the assembled cake thoroughly before cutting with a sharp knife.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in color and slightly fluffy.
Add the vegetable oil and milk, mixing until incorporated.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix just until combined.
Finally, add the baking powder and gently incorporate it into the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan.
Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 35 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely before assembling.
Step 3: Make the White Brigadeiro
Add the sweetened condensed milk, cream, powdered milk, and butter to a saucepan.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly.
Continue cooking until the mixture becomes thick, smooth, and creamy.
Remove from the heat and allow it to cool before using it as a filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
Remove the stems and chop the strawberries into small pieces.
Set aside until ready to assemble the cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Syrup
Combine the milk and sweetened condensed milk in a small bowl.
Stir until evenly mixed.
Step 6: Cut and Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully cut it into two or three horizontal layers, depending on the height of the cake.
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
Lightly brush or spoon some of the milk syrup over the cake to moisten it.
Spread a generous layer of white brigadeiro over the surface.
Add a generous amount of chopped strawberries over the brigadeiro.
Step 7: Repeat the Layers
Place the next cake layer on top.
Moisten it with the syrup and repeat the white brigadeiro and strawberry layers.
Continue until all the cake layers have been assembled.
Finish the top with a generous layer of white brigadeiro and fresh strawberries.
Step 8: Chill
Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
This resting time allows the cake to absorb the syrup while the brigadeiro filling firms up and the strawberry flavor blends with the creamy layers.
Step 9: Serve
Remove the cake from the refrigerator shortly before serving.
Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled, making sure each slice contains soft cake, creamy white brigadeiro, and plenty of fresh strawberries.
Description
Strawberry Cake with White Brigadeiro is a decadent layered dessert combining soft vanilla cake with creamy white brigadeiro and fresh strawberries. The lightly sweetened milk syrup keeps the sponge moist, while the brigadeiro provides a rich, silky filling that perfectly complements the bright flavor of the berries.
It’s an especially beautiful cake for celebrations because the white cream and vibrant strawberries create an elegant contrast.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving and will vary depending on the exact ingredients, cake size, and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 400–450 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 7–9 g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 55–65 g
- Fat: Approximately 18–22 g
- Sugar: Approximately 35–45 g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: Approximately 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Oven Temperature: 180°C (350°F)
- Type: Layer cake
- Cuisine: Brazilian-inspired
Conclusion
Strawberry Cake with White Brigadeiro is a beautiful combination of soft cake, creamy milk-based filling, and fresh strawberries. The simple syrup gives the sponge a tender texture, while the white brigadeiro adds richness without overpowering the fresh fruit.
Whether prepared for a birthday, holiday, family gathering, or weekend dessert, this cake is sure to stand out on the table.
Recommendation
For the best texture and flavor, prepare the cake several hours before serving and let it chill thoroughly. If making it for a celebration, preparing it the day before can make assembly easier and give the flavors even more time to blend.
Decorate the top with fresh strawberries and white chocolate shavings for an elegant finishing touch.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This cake is designed as an indulgent dessert, but the generous use of fresh strawberries adds natural fruit flavor, moisture, and freshness to every layer. Strawberries also provide vitamin C and other naturally occurring nutrients.
For a lighter variation, you can increase the amount of strawberries while using a slightly thinner layer of brigadeiro, creating a dessert that still feels rich while allowing the fresh fruit to play a larger role.