When fresh strawberries burst into season, my mind instantly drifts to one of my favorite indulgences: Strawberry Shortcake Cake. This delightful treat is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and nostalgia, evoking memories of sunny picnics and warm family gatherings. The moment I slice into the three fluffy layers, the vibrant red strawberries peek out, tempting me with their sweet juiciness, while the whipped cream frosting beckons me for a taste.
You’ll find this cake refreshingly easy to master, even if you’re usually more comfortable with takeout than measuring cups. With just a few pantry staples and your oven, you can create a stunning centerpiece for any occasion—from birthdays to brunches, or simply to treat yourself after a long day. Trust me, the smiles it brings will make every bit of effort more than worth it. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get baking!
Why Choose Strawberry Shortcake Cake Today?
Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: Highlighting ripe strawberries creates a vibrant and flavorful treat for every occasion.
Simple Steps: This recipe features easy-to-follow directions that even novice bakers can master, making it accessible to everyone.
Celebration of Flavor: The combination of fluffy cake layers, creamy frosting, and fresh strawberries offers a delightful contrast that excites the palate.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Stacking those vibrant layers makes for a stunning centerpiece, impressing guests at any gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, this cake fits every setting! Get ready to indulge in a slice of strawberry bliss!
Strawberry Shortcake Cake Ingredients
• Everything you need for deliciousness!
For the Cake Layers
- All-purpose flour – The foundation of your cake, providing structure and fluffiness.
- Baking powder – This leavening agent ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the sweetness of the cake.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and adds moisture.
- Vegetable or canola oil – Keeps the cake tender and rich.
- Large eggs – Essential for binding ingredients and adding richness.
- Large egg whites – Help create a light and airy texture.
- Pure vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
- Almond extract (optional) – A touch of nuttiness for added depth.
- Sour cream – Provides moisture and a subtle tang.
- Milk – Helps to achieve the perfect consistency in the batter.
For the Strawberry Filling
- Fresh strawberries – The star of the show, delivering fresh flavor and juiciness.
- Strawberry jam – Enhances the strawberry taste and adds a glossy finish.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – The creamy base that brings a rich texture to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth finish.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth to balance the creaminess.
- Heavy whipping cream – Creates a light, whipped frosting that holds its shape well.
With these ingredients for your Strawberry Shortcake Cake, you’re on your way to creating a show-stopping dessert that will make everyone smile!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
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Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined. Set aside for the perfect cake structure.
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Beat sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts using a stand mixer or hand mixer until creamy. Then add sour cream and combine. Mix in half of the flour mixture, then add milk, finishing with the remaining flour. Scrape the bowl as needed.
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Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing them. Divide your smooth batter evenly among the pans, tapping to release any air bubbles.
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Bake the cakes for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely on a rack so they set nicely.
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Mix the strawberries and jam together in a bowl, letting the flavors meld, creating a delicious filling for your layers. Set aside.
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Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Gradually mix in the heavy cream, increasing speed to high, and whip until your cream holds stiff peaks.
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Layer your cake: Place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread one-third of the frosting on top, followed by 1¼ cups of the strawberry mixture. Repeat with the second layer. For the final layer, top with the remaining frosting and the rest of the strawberries in the center.
Optional: Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Shortcake Cake layers are perfect for meal prep, making your baking experience smoother, especially on busy days! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance—just bake, let them cool completely, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain moisture. The strawberry filling can be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this timing allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, whip the cream cheese frosting, assemble your layers with the filling, and top with whipped cream for a fresh presentation. Trust me, this approach will save you precious time and ensure your dessert is just as delicious!
What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance every slice of your luscious cake.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the cake’s sweetness while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the fluffy cake, creating a heavenly mouthful.
- Mint Tea: A light and aromatic tea enhances the cake’s flavor profile and provides a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, bittersweet chocolate sauce adds an indulgent twist to your dessert, creating an irresistible combination.
- Lemonade Spritz: The zesty tang of lemonade adds a vibrant touch that balances the sweetness of the cake and makes it perfect for warm days.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Elevate each slice with an extra dollop of whipped cream to delight in even more creamy goodness!
These pairings bring out the best in your Strawberry Shortcake Cake, creating a festive atmosphere ideal for any celebration.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Room Temperature: Store your unfrosted cake layers at room temperature for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Fridge: If frosted, keep the Strawberry Shortcake Cake covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps the flavors meld while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the cake, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, preserving its delicious taste.
Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and adjustments to make the Strawberry Shortcake Cake truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a cake everyone can enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese substitutes to create a luscious, creamy cake without the dairy.
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Sugar-Free: Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol to indulge without the sweetness overload.
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Additional Fruits: Incorporate raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries for a delightful mixed berry surprise in every bite.
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Zesty Twist: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with strawberries.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips to the cake batter for a delightful twist, creating a chocolate-strawberry harmony.
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Decadent Filling: Spread a layer of Nutella or chocolate ganache between the layers for a rich treat that takes the taste to another level.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the frosting for those who love a surprising touch of heat against the sweetness.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs, milk, and sour cream come to room temperature for a smooth batter that rises better.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture you want in your strawberry shortcake cake.
- Cake Pan Preparation: Line your pans with parchment paper and grease them well. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release when you remove the cakes.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool entirely before frosting. If they’re warm, the frosting may melt, making a gooey mess!
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: For the finest flavor, opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Firmer berries will hold up better in your layers without becoming mushy.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe strawberries that are firm and brightly colored. Look for berries without any dark spots or mushiness. Local strawberries in season are usually the sweetest and most flavorful.
How do I store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
Very! If you have leftovers, keep your frosted Strawberry Shortcake Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For unfrosted cake layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze my Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first, slice it into individual servings. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your delicious cake can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What should I do if my cake layers come out dense?
Absolutely! Dense cake layers could be a result of overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Mix until just combined for the best texture. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to dense results.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! If you want to make a gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake Cake, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1 teaspoon separately for proper structure.
Can pets eat strawberry shortcake?
Not recommended! While strawberries are safe for pets in moderation, the cake itself contains ingredients like sugar and cream cheese that can be unhealthy for them. It’s best to keep this sweet treat just for your enjoyment!
Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Beat sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts until creamy. Add sour cream and combine.
- Mix in half of the flour mixture, then add milk, finishing with the remaining flour.
- Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing them.
- Divide the batter evenly among the pans and tap to release air bubbles.
- Bake the cakes for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow them to cool completely on a rack.
- Mix strawberries and jam together in a bowl.
- Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl.
- Gradually mix in the heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Layer your cake; place one layer on a platter, spread frosting, add strawberry mixture, repeat for second layer.
- Top with remaining frosting and strawberries for decoration.