Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe

If you adore the classic summer dessert with a bit of a twist, you are in for an absolute treat with this Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe. This cake combines the soft, tender crumb of a classic cake with the fresh, juicy burst of strawberries and the rich, fluffy cream that makes every bite feel like a celebration. It’s a delightful way to enjoy strawberries beyond the usual shortcake and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that balance of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that makes the dessert so memorable. From the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese to the bright freshness of strawberries, each component shines in harmony.

• 3 cups flour: Provides the perfect structure and softness to the cake layers.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become airy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter at room temperature: Adds moisture and richness to the cake crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to a tender texture.
• 4 eggs: Bind ingredients and add stability while helping the cake rise.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup oil (vegetable, canola, or light olive oil): Keeps the cake moist for days.
• 1/4 cup sour cream (full fat): Adds tang and extra softness.
• 1 cup whole milk or 2%: Provides moisture and tender crumb; avoid lower fat for best results.
• 2 pints fresh ripe strawberries: The star fruit that brings juicy freshness and vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon Sprouts Organic Balsamic Glaze (optional): Gives a subtle tangy kick that compliments the strawberries.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens and macerates the strawberries perfectly.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: For the luscious, fluffy whipped cream that crowns the cake.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (divided): Sweetens the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture smoothly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a delicate aroma and flavor to the cream.
• 4 ounces cream cheese (full fat): Gives the whipped cream a rich, silky texture and slight tang.
• 1/4 cup diced strawberries with glaze: Folded into the cream for bursts of fruity goodness.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your cake pans by greasing, flouring, and lining them with parchment paper—this ensures your layers come out perfectly every time. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; this dry mix is the backbone of a tender cake. Next, cream the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy, which traps air to help your cake rise beautifully. Adding eggs one by one here creates a luscious batter with great structure. Incorporate vanilla and oil for moisture and flavor, then blend in sour cream for extra tang and softness. Alternate adding the milk and dry ingredients so the batter stays smooth and lump-free. Divide this batter evenly into your pans and bake for 22 to 30 minutes, until the tops spring back at a gentle touch. When cool, freeze the layers briefly—this freezes them fast and makes handling easier for assembly.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

While your cake layers bake and cool, it’s time to prep those beautiful fresh strawberries. Dice them into bite-sized pieces and drizzle with the balsamic glaze if you’re using it—it adds a lovely complexity. Sprinkle with sugar and stir until the berries are coated and gleaming. Pop this bowl into the fridge to macerate and soak up those flavors while you whip up the cream.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Mixture

Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer—it’s a small trick that whips cream up in no time. Beat the heavy whipping cream until it thickens just right, then add half of the powdered sugar and the vanilla extract until the cream reaches soft peaks. In a separate bowl, smooth out the cream cheese, then blend in the remaining powdered sugar and some of the glazed strawberries. Finally, fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently but thoroughly—you want a light, creamy filling dotted with strawberry jewels.

Step 4: Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe

Here comes the fun part! Carefully layer your frozen cake rounds, spreading a generous amount of the whipped cream mixture between each layer, along with more of the macerated strawberries. Build it evenly for a beautiful presentation that’s bursting with flavor in every slice. Crown the cake with whole strawberries for a stunning finish. Serve immediately or keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to wow your guests—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh whole strawberries are classic and eye-catching on top of this cake, but you can also add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or edible flower petals for a bit of color and crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving makes it look picture perfect.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade to balance the sweetness. For a heartier option, a scoop of fresh vanilla bean ice cream complements the cream and berry flavors wonderfully. A fruity salad with mint provides a refreshing contrast as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices with mini bowls of extra strawberry cream on the side for guests to add if they want more decadence. Layer this cake in individual trifle glasses for a stunning presentation at parties. You can even stack mini cakes to create lovely individual servings for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cake keeps well in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out. It will stay fresh and flavorful for about three days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cake slices by wrapping them carefully in plastic wrap and foil—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Freezing works especially well since the cake layers themselves freeze beautifully without losing moisture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you want to warm a slice slightly, let it sit out of the fridge for 30 minutes for the cream to soften naturally rather than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe because they maintain their texture and freshness better. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid soggy cake layers.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with alternative products such as coconut cream and vegan butter, but it will alter the texture somewhat. The classic rich creaminess is best with full-fat dairy here.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

It’s best to assemble the cake no more than a day before serving to keep the whipped cream fresh and the cake layers from becoming too soggy.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a small amount of lemon juice mixed with honey adds a similar tangy sweetness to the strawberries.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend in place of regular flour, but be sure to check for rising agent compatibility and adjust if needed for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you want to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen and delight everyone around your table, this Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s approachable, crowd-pleasing, and utterly delicious, showcasing strawberries and cream in a stunning cake form. Once you try it, this recipe will become your go-to whenever you want a dessert that feels both special and comfortably familiar. Give it a whirl and prepare for some well-deserved compliments!

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