Name: Unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar

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Introduction

Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert loved for its light, fluffy cake layers paired with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. This unforgettable strawberry shortcake cake takes the classic flavors and transforms them into a beautiful layered treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

A close-up photo of a slice of strawberry shortcake on a white plate with a white marbled texture beneath. The cake has three parts: the bottom layer is light golden sponge cake with a soft and fluffy texture, the middle layer holds fresh sliced strawberries and a thick spread of white whipped cream, and the top layer is another piece of golden sponge cake covered with more white whipped cream piped decoratively around the edges. On top, there is a row of whole sliced strawberries as a bright red and shiny garnish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat everything together until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: While the cakes cool, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This will be the luscious filling and topping.
Step 7: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream over the top, then arrange half of the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream.
Step 8: Add the second cake layer on top, then repeat with the remaining whipped cream and strawberries.
Step 9: Serve the cake immediately for best freshness or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, macerate the strawberries with a little sugar and lemon juice for 20 minutes before assembling.
Substitute half of the milk with buttermilk for a tangier cake texture.
Use stabilized whipped cream if you want the topping to hold up longer without weeping.
Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or chopped pistachios between layers for a delightful crunch.

Storage

Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered lightly with plastic wrap or a cake dome, for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh whipped cream and strawberries, it’s best enjoyed within this time. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for the flavors to shine. Avoid freezing as the texture of the fresh cream and berries may degrade.

How to Serve

A slice of three-layer vanilla sponge cake sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture in the background. The bottom layer is a soft, light yellow sponge, topped with a thin layer of whipped cream and a visible layer of sliced fresh strawberries with a bright red color. The middle layer is another fluffy yellow sponge, covered by a thicker layer of white whipped cream mixed with more sliced strawberries. The top layer is a generous layer of whipped cream, decorated with three whole, glossy, red strawberries on top. The texture of the cake is moist and crumbly, and the whipped cream looks light and fluffy. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the cake is fully baked. If batter sticks to the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and test again.