
This showstopping layer cake proves that skipping dairy and eggs doesn't mean skipping any of the joy. The batter gets its lift and tenderness from a clever combination of plant-based milk curdled with apple cider vinegar, vegan butter creamed until fluffy, and unsweetened applesauce standing in beautifully for eggs — no one will guess a thing. The real star of the frosting is a slow-cooked strawberry reduction that concentrates down to a thick, jewel-red purée, giving the buttercream a naturally vibrant pink color and an intensely fruity flavor you simply can't get from extract alone. Fresh sliced strawberries tucked between the layers add a juicy, bright contrast to every forkful. The whole cake comes together with straightforward techniques — creaming, alternating wet and dry, a quick crumb coat — so it's approachable even if you don't bake layer cakes often. With 12 generous slices, it's perfectly sized for a birthday, a celebration, or honestly any occasion that deserves something beautiful on the table.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Stir together the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl or measuring cup and set aside for 5 minutes until slightly curdled.
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