Making a French Strawberry Cake is an enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Divide Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops for an even bake.

7. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

9. Prepare the Whipped Cream: While the cakes are cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

10. Layer the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of whipped cream over the top, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.

11. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with the remaining whipped cream and strawberries.

12. Decorate: Finish by decorating the top with additional fresh strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation.

By following these steps, you will create a stunning French Strawberry Cake that is as delicious as it is beautiful.