Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Tender buttery vanilla cake layers filled and topped with fresh strawberries and clouds of vanilla whipped cream make this Strawberry Shortcake Cake an irresistible delight. Perfect for summer celebrations, this cake is a must-have at BBQs and family gatherings. Easy to prepare in just one bowl, it promises flavor and simplicity that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream atop buttery vanilla cake creates a delightful balance of sweetness.
• Easy to Prepare: With a straightforward one-bowl method, this recipe minimizes mess and effort, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for summer picnics, birthdays, or any celebration, this cake fits perfectly into various settings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal strawberries elevates the taste and adds a vibrant touch to your dessert table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With generous servings, this cake can satisfy a hungry group, making it perfect for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Shortcake Cake successfully, having the right tools at hand is essential. Gather these kitchen essentials before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch round deep cake pan or springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Large serrated knife
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: These tools make mixing the batter effortless and ensure each ingredient is thoroughly combined for a smooth texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing the cake batter and fillings.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 ¾ cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp (8g) cornstarch
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tsp (10ml) pure vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling

• 1 ⅓ cups (200g) chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tbsp (12g) granulated sugar

For the Cream Filling and Topping

• 2 cups (500ml) cold heavy 35% whipping cream
• 2 tbsp (12g) skim milk powder
• 1-2 tbsp (12-25g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced in half

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare an 8-inch round deep cake pan or springform pan by lining its bottom with parchment paper and lightly greasing the sides.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

• Sift together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder into a mixing bowl.
• Add granulated sugar and salt; whisk to combine.
• Incorporate softened butter, beaten eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, milk, and vanilla extract.
• Beat on medium-low speed until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan evenly.
• Bake for 35–45 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a skewer inserted in the center.
• Allow cooling in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Filling

• In a bowl, mix chopped strawberries with granulated sugar.
• Let sit for 10–20 minutes until juices are released; strain strawberries but reserve juice.

Step 5: Make the Cream Filling and Topping

• In a large bowl, combine whipping cream with skim milk powder; whisk until peaks form.
• Add sugar and vanilla extract; continue beating until semi-firm peaks form. Avoid over-whipping.

Step 6: Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake

• Use a serrated knife to slice the cooled cake horizontally in half.
• Place bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with half of the cream leaving a border.
• Top with drained chopped strawberries; place top layer on gently.
• Spoon remaining cream over top layer; add sliced strawberries.
• Drizzle reserved strawberry juices just before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Cake immediately or chill for an hour to set slightly. Keep it refrigerated if not served right away as it contains fresh cream.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Its light, fluffy texture and fresh strawberry flavor make it a favorite among friends and family. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own for a simple yet satisfying dessert experience.

Individual Servings

• Cut the cake into smaller squares and serve them on individual plates. This makes it easy for guests to grab their own portion.

Parfait Style

• Layer slices of cake with whipped cream and strawberries in clear cups for an attractive parfait presentation. This also adds a fun twist to the serving style!

Ice Cream Pairing

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess and flavor contrast. It’s an indulgent treat that everyone will love.

Drizzled with Strawberry Sauce

• Use the reserved strawberry juices as a sauce by drizzling it over the cake slices before serving. This enhances the fruity flavor!

Afternoon Tea Treat

• Serve small pieces of Strawberry Shortcake Cake alongside tea for an elegant afternoon snack. The combination of flavors pairs beautifully with various teas.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Achieving the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cake requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cake due to excess flour.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender.
• Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before frosting or assembling. This ensures that the whipped cream doesn’t melt.
• Choose Ripe Strawberries: Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness in both filling and topping.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, as this cake contains whipped cream.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

To complement your Strawberry Shortcake Cake, consider serving some refreshing side dishes that enhance the overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits like melon, kiwi, and berries adds brightness and balances sweetness.

2. Minted Cucumber Salad
   Crisp cucumbers dressed in a light vinaigrette bring freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich cake.

3. Lemonade or Iced Tea
   Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea provide a cooling sip that pairs beautifully with dessert.

4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   These are delightful treats that echo the flavors of your cake while adding a touch of elegance.

5. Pasta Salad with Vegetables
   A cold pasta salad filled with colorful vegetables complements the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses offers savory bites that balance out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

7. Roasted Vegetable Medley
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add warmth and earthiness, creating an inviting spread alongside your dessert.

8. Herbed Quinoa Salad
   Light yet filling, quinoa mixed with herbs provides protein while keeping things fresh and zesty on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Strawberry Shortcake Cake a true success. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring cake cooling time: Rushing to frost a warm cake can cause the cream to melt. Always allow the cake to cool completely before assembling.
• Using overripe strawberries: While fresh strawberries are vital, overripe ones can make the filling mushy. Choose firm, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the levelling step: If you don’t level your cake layers, they may not stack evenly. Use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops for a neat presentation.
• Overwhipping the cream: Whipping cream too long can turn it grainy. Stop when you reach semi-firm peaks to ensure a smooth texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise, so be sure to measure all ingredients correctly using standard methods for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it chilled since it contains whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm wrapped slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cake.

Can I make this Strawberry Shortcake Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I keep my whipped cream from deflating?

Adding skim milk powder helps stabilize the whipped cream, keeping it fluffy longer.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

While fresh strawberries provide the best texture, you can use frozen ones if thawed and drained properly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You may use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping as alternatives if you’re looking for lighter options.

Can I add other fruits to this cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in blueberries or raspberries for variety and extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion. Customize it with your favorite fruits or flavors, and enjoy every delightful bite!