Why Make This Recipe
Summer is the perfect time for a light and refreshing dessert, and nothing says summer more than the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake. This recipe combines soft, fluffy cake layers with creamy whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Not only is it delicious, but it is also visually stunning, making it an excellent choice for celebrations, brunches, or even a family gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is easy enough for anyone to make.
How to Make Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Additional strawberries for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with whipped cream and sliced strawberries, then top with the second cake layer.
- Frost the top with more whipped cream and garnish with additional strawberries.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious summer dessert!
How to Serve Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Slice the cake into wedges and serve it chilled. You can place additional sliced strawberries on each plate for an extra touch. This cake is perfect for warm days and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or lemonade.
How to Store Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy within three days for optimal freshness.
Tips to Make Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, and consider macerating them with a little sugar to enhance their sweetness before layering.
- If you want even more whipped cream flavor, you can add a touch of vanilla extract or powdered sugar to the whipped cream while mixing.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can add other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry shortcake. You could also try using a different extract, like almond, in the cake batter for a new flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but for best results, thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.
2. How long does this cake last?
The cake can last in the fridge for up to three days if stored properly.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the same amount. Make sure to check that other ingredients you use (like baking powder) are also gluten-free.
Best Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with whipped cream and sliced strawberries, then top with the second cake layer.
- Frost the top with more whipped cream and garnish with additional strawberries.
- Slice the cake into wedges and serve it chilled. You can place additional sliced strawberries on each plate for an extra touch.
