Easy Dreamy Strawberry Cream Cake

• 2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tablespoons kirsch
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 (9 inch) round layers prepared white cake
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup confectioner's powdered sugar, sifted to remove any lumps
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (or one vanilla bean, seeded and scraped)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, well chilled
• fresh mint sprig, optional to garnish
• strawberry ice cream, to serve

1. In a medium bowl, combine strawberries with the sugar and kirsch; set aside for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Reserve several of the most attractive strawberry slices for decorating the top of the cake.
2. To make frosting/ filling:
3. On medium-high speed of mixer, whip the cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
4. Reduce to medium speed and beat in the cream until starting to thicken, then increase speed to high and beat until soft peaks form, about 2 to 2 1/2 minutes. Do not over mix.
5. Assemble the cake:
6. Fill one cake layer with half of the strawberries, arranged in an attractive pattern. Carefully spread 1/2 of the frosting over the strawberries, to within 1/2 inch of sides.
7. Place second cake layer on top of first layer and press gently. Repeat with strawberries and frosting; decorate top of cake with the reserved strawberries.
8. Decorate top with a fresh mint sprig, as desired.
9. Slice into wedges and serve with a scoop of strawberry ice cream.
10. Refrigerate any leftovers. Cake is best served the same day.

fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, layers, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, heavy cream, mint sprig, strawberry ice cream

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/easy-dreamy-strawberry-cream-cake-452397 (may not work)