Imagine a sunny June afternoon. The smell of fresh strawberries fills your kitchen. You’re mixing a homemade strawberry cake, bringing back happy memories of summers and picnics.
This easy strawberry cake recipe is more than a dessert. It’s a way to share joy with your loved ones. It turns happy moments into a tasty treat.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a symbol of comfort and simplicity. The taste of moist vanilla cake, strawberries, and whipped cream is amazing.
Whether you’re having a summer party or just want a sweet treat, this guide is for you. Let’s make a strawberry-filled masterpiece together.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This easy strawberry cake recipe creates a fresh and delightful dessert.
- Ideal for summer gatherings or a sweet treat at home.
- Includes moist vanilla cake layers, fresh strawberry filling, and whipped cream frosting.
- Focuses on the simplicity and joy of homemade desserts.
- Perfectly captures the nostalgic essence of childhood summer days.
Introduction to Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a favorite summer dessert. It’s loved for its mix of flavors and textures. This cake is a treat that combines fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and soft cake.
It’s perfect for any celebration or a simple weekend. This recipe will make your taste buds happy.
Why Strawberry Shortcake Cake is Special
The best strawberry cake uses fresh strawberries and a light cake. It has 1 1/4 cups of pureed strawberries for a sweet taste. A whipped cream topping made with freeze-dried strawberries adds to its beauty.
This cake is also special because of its homemade touch. It has vanilla extract and sugar in the batter. The addition of eggs and sourdough discard makes it soft and moist.
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
This strawberry shortcake recipe is versatile. It’s great for picnics, birthdays, or family dinners. It takes 25 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake.
The frosting has vanilla extract and lemon juice for a fresh taste. This cake is not only delicious but also looks amazing.
Imagine serving this cake at your next event. It’s perfect for big groups, serving 24 people. Chill it for an hour before serving for the best look.
Making this classic dessert from scratch is a special treat. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the best strawberry cake experience, bringing joy to any occasion.
Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
To make a tasty strawberry shortcake, you need some fresh and basic ingredients. Each one helps make your cake and dessert yummy and memorable. Here’s what you need to get started.
Basic Cake Ingredients
First, you need the cake’s base. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: 180 grams (1 1/2 cups)
- Granulated sugar: 260 grams (1 1/3 cups)
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cold unsalted butter: 227 grams (1 cup)
- Buttermilk: Makes it moist
- Large eggs: 4
- Sour cream: 120 grams (1/2 cup)
- Lemon zest: 2 teaspoons (from 1 large lemon)
Fresh Strawberry Filling
The filling is the star of this cake. It’s made with fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s very juicy:
- Fresh strawberries: 908 grams (2 pounds)
- Sugar: 66 grams (1/3 cup)
- Lemon juice or Triple Sec: 30 milliliters (2 tablespoons)
- Time for strawberries to macerate: 5-10 minutes
Whipped Cream Frosting
No strawberry dessert is complete without whipped cream frosting. Here’s what you need:
- Heavy whipping cream: 480 milliliters (2 cups)
- Plain gelatin: 2 teaspoons (to stabilize the frosting)
- Cold water: 3 tablespoons (to dissolve the gelatin)
- More sugar to taste
With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake and enjoy a delicious strawberry shortcake. It will impress everyone.
| Nutrition per Serving (1/12th of the Cake) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 237 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44.1g |
| Protein | 10.4g |
| Fat | 2.6g |
| Fiber | 1.6g |
Preparing the Vanilla Cake Layers
To make a tasty homemade strawberry cake, start with great vanilla cake layers. These layers are key for the cake’s texture and taste.
Step-by-Step Cake Preparation
First, mix dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking powder. Here’s what you need:
- Flour: Use 330g (about 3 cups) of cake flour for the best texture.
- Sugar: 200g (1 cup) of fine granulated sugar and 100g (½ cup) of light brown sugar.
- Leavening agents: Incorporate 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) of double-acting baking powder.
Then, add wet ingredients for a smooth batter:
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, which add richness.
- Butter: 339g (3 sticks) of unsalted butter ensures moisture and flavor.
- Oil: Add 50g (¼ cup) of avocado or canola oil for a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Use 2 teaspoons for that classic vanilla flavor.
- Buttermilk or kefir: 240g (1 cup) for a tangy, moist cake.
Baking Tips for Perfect Layers
Baking your layers right is key for a great easy strawberry cake. Here are some tips:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Pans: Use two 9 x 13-inch baking dishes, greased and lined with parchment paper.
- Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Bake the layers at 325°F for 30-35 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to verify; it should come out clean.
- Cooling the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling your strawberry cream cake.
Follow these steps for a delicious homemade strawberry cream cake. Your cake will have moist layers ready for filling and frosting. These tips will help you bake a wonderful easy strawberry cake at home.
Making the Stabilized Whipped Cream Frosting
Stabilized whipped cream frosting is key for the best strawberry cake. It keeps the cake’s shape and texture right. This frosting goes great with the delicious strawberry cake recipe you’re making. Follow this guide for perfect results.
Ingredients for the Frosting
To make the stabilized whipped cream frosting for your strawberry shortcake recipe, you need these ingredients:
- Heavy cream: 460 g (2 cups) with 36% fat content
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water, serving as the stabilizer
- Granulated sugar: 100 g (½ cup)
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons for added flavor
Whipping Techniques
To get a perfect stabilized whipped cream frosting for your strawberry shortcake recipe, follow these steps:
- Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters for about 15 minutes.
- Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl and start to whip at medium speed until it begins to thicken.
- Add the dissolved cornstarch mixture gradually while continuing to whip the cream.
- Once the cream reaches soft peaks, add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
- Keep whipping until stiff peaks form. Make sure the frosting stays firm when you put it on the best strawberry cake.
This frosting not only looks great but also tastes amazing with your delicious strawberry cake recipe. By following these steps, you’ll know the frosting will stay perfect on your strawberry cake.
Preparing Fresh Strawberries for Filling and Topping
To make your strawberry shortcake cake unforgettable, start with fresh ingredients. Choose high-quality strawberries for a *fresh strawberry dessert*. Pick ripe strawberries that smell good and are bright red, without blemishes or mold.
For your strawberries, you’ll need about 2 lbs (20 large strawberries). First, wash them under cold water. Then, remove the leafy cap and the white core from each strawberry.
You can slice the strawberries or crush them a bit. Slicing is great for decorating the top of your *simple strawberry shortcake*. Crushing them releases their juices, which you can mix with sugar for a tasty filling.
To add more strawberry flavor to your strawberry shortcake cake, mix 1 tablespoon of strawberry jam with the strawberries. Let the strawberries sit with the sugar for at least 15 minutes. This makes a glossy, flavorful sauce for layering or topping.
Using about 1 pound of fresh strawberries for a reduction can make the flavor even better. Cook the strawberries for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re half the size. This reduction boosts the flavor of your cake layers and filling.
These steps will make your fresh strawberry dessert shine. Every bite of your strawberry shortcake cake will be a delicious treat.
Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Making a tasty homemade strawberry cake is easy. It’s great for small groups or when you just want something sweet. Follow these simple steps to layer your cake.
Layering the Cake
Start with a cake base on your plate. Add about 3 oz (84g) of strawberries on top. This makes the cake moist and flavorful.
Then, cover the strawberries with strawberry cream. This filling is key to the cake’s taste.
Keep adding layers, spreading strawberries and cream on each one. Use about 3 cups of strawberries for this. They add a fresh taste that’s perfect with the whipped cream.
Applying the Frosting
After you’ve layered the cake, frost it with whipped cream. Use a spatula to smooth it out. This makes the cake look nice and neat.
Use the same whipped cream for the frosting. This keeps the flavors and textures the same. You’ll need about 5 cups of whipped cream for everything.
Decorating with Fresh Strawberries
Decorate the cake with fresh strawberries. Use 6-8 strawberries to make it look good. You can also add sprinkles or cookie crumbs for extra fun.
Putting this cake together takes less than an hour. With these steps, you’ll have a beautiful and tasty cake ready for any event.
Tips for Best Results
To make your strawberry shortcake cake perfect, pay attention to a few important details. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best strawberry cake. Follow our strawberry shortcake recipe and enjoy delicious strawberry cake recipes every time.
Choosing the Best Strawberries
Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and look. Freshness is key for great flavor and texture. Pick strawberries that are bright red and without blemishes or spots.
Ensuring Stabilized Frosting
For perfect whipped cream frosting, stability is key. Heat heavy cream slightly in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Then, let the white chocolate sit in the warm cream for about 2 minutes before whisking.
This helps stabilize the frosting, so it doesn’t weep. Mix the frosting on low speed for 1 minute. Then, increase to medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it’s fluffy and stiff peaks form.
Maintaining Cake Moisture
To keep your cake moist, don’t over-bake the layers. Bake them for about 24-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Also, applying a simple syrup can help keep it moist.
For the best results, let your cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps keep the cake layers tender.
- Always use 1 cup of water and ½ cup of vegetable oil in the cake mix for a moist texture.
- Use ¼ teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a perfect flavor balance.
- Incorporate 5 large egg whites gradually, adding one at a time with 10-second intervals between each addition.
- If necessary, refrigerate the cake for at least 45 minutes after frosting to maintain its shape when cutting.
- If preparing cupcakes, fill the muffin cups 2/3 full and bake for about 22 minutes. Allow them to cool for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
By following these tips, your strawberry shortcake recipe will always yield a delicious strawberry cake. You’ll make the best strawberry cake every time.
Variations and Substitutions
Strawberry shortcake cake can be made in many ways. You can try different fruits, frostings, and options for special diets. This makes your strawberry cake unique and fun for all.
Alternative Fruit Fillings
Want something other than strawberries? Try peaches, blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries. They bring a fresh taste and keep your dessert lively.
Different Frosting Options
Classic whipped cream frosting is great, but you can also try cream cheese, mascarpone, or lemon glaze. These choices make your strawberry cake a hit at any event.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
Make a gluten-free strawberry shortcake with gluten-free flour. For a vegan version, use flaxseed or chia seeds instead of eggs. Choose plant-based butter and milk. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty strawberry cake.
Serving Suggestions
When serving strawberry shortcake cake, how you present it matters a lot. The right presentation can make your cake the highlight of any party. Choosing the right drink to pair with it can also bring out its flavors.
Presentation Ideas
Use a fancy cake stand to show off your strawberry shortcake cake. Add some fresh berries and mint leaves for a pretty look. You can also serve each slice on a plate with whipped cream and powdered sugar.
For a fun party dessert, put small portions in clear cups or jars. This is great for big parties because it’s easy to serve. Everyone gets a little bit of cake.
Pairing with Drinks
Pair your strawberry shortcake cake with light sparkling wines like Prosecco or Moscato. These drinks make the cake’s fruity and creamy tastes even better. If you don’t want alcohol, try floral teas like chamomile or hibiscus. They’re refreshing and nice with the cake.
Trying out these ideas will make serving strawberry shortcake a hit at any event.
Storing and Making Ahead
Storing and making strawberry shortcake ahead keeps it fresh and tasty. It’s great for big events or saving time. Knowing how to store it right keeps your cake perfect.
Proper Storage Techniques
Store strawberry cake parts separately for best results. Keep biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and tasty.
Put fresh strawberry dessert parts in the fridge to stay fresh. Whipped cream also goes in the fridge to stay stiff.
Making Components Ahead of Time
Plan ahead to make strawberry shortcake. Biscuits can be made a day before and kept at room temperature. Prepare strawberries by hulling and slicing them, then let them sit for 10 minutes.
Make whipped cream a few hours before. But whip it just before you put the cake together. This keeps it light and fluffy.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | Airtight container at room temperature | 1 day |
| Strawberries | Refrigerated | Up to 6 hours |
| Whipped Cream | Chilled | A few hours |
| Assembled Cake | Refrigerated | Up to 1 day |
| Unassembled Cake Components | At room temperature or refrigerated | Up to 2 days |
| Plain Baked Cake | Freezer | Up to 1 month |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about making the perfect easy strawberry cake? Let’s answer some common ones to help you make this dessert a hit.
Can You Make This Cake in Advance?
Yes, you can prep parts of your homemade strawberry cake ahead of time. Bake the cake layers and store them at room temperature or freeze for up to a month. But, it’s best to put the cake together just before serving to keep the strawberries fresh.
Make the whipped cream topping on the day you serve. This way, your cake will taste and look its best.
What to Do If the Cake Cracks?
Cracks in your cake can be upsetting, but they’re not a big deal. If your cake cracks, there are ways to fix it. You can use extra whipped cream frosting to hide any flaws.
Or, place the cracked parts in the middle layer. Cover them with strawberries and cream. These tips will help your cake look great, even if it’s not perfect.
| Nutritional Information (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 565 |
| Total Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 67 g |
| Sugar | 35 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Sodium | 533 mg |
| Cholesterol | 100 mg |
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe
This strawberry shortcake cake recipe is your go-to guide for creating a delightful dessert. It brings fresh flavors to your table. Follow these steps for each part: mixing and baking the layers, preparing the strawberry filling, and whipping the frosting.
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 and 2/3 cups (209g) all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Melt 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter and add it to the flour mixture.
- Stir in 2 egg whites and 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour the batter into a greased 12×17 inches jelly roll pan.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- Dice 2 cups (300–320g) fresh strawberries.
- Macerate strawberries with 6 tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to release juices.
- Whipping the Cream:
- Use 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) cold heavy cream and 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar.
- Whip on high speed for about 3 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Notes and Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for uniform mixing.
- Do not over-whip the cream as it may become grainy. Stop as soon as stiff peaks form.
- Cool the cake layers completely before assembly to prevent melting the whipped cream.
- The simple strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed within 12 hours of assembly for optimal taste and texture.
This recipe yields approximately 24 servings, each serving containing about 151 calories. The delectable result justifies the detailed preparation, contributing to the best strawberry cake experience. Enjoy your baking!
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 151 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 61 mg |
| Sodium | 50 mg |
| Potassium | 104 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Vitamin A | 470 IU |
| Vitamin C | 22 mg |
| Calcium | 37 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
Conclusion
Follow this easy strawberry cake guide to make a delicious cake. It’s great for any event, like a family gathering or dinner party. This homemade strawberry dessert will be a hit with everyone.
Use 1 pound of fresh strawberries and 3 ounces of freeze-dried strawberries for the best flavor. The cake is vegan, using 1 cup of unsalted vegan butter and 3/4 cup of aquafaba. This makes it perfect for many diets.
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of organic cane sugar and special baking ingredients. It makes 16 slices, each with about 301 calories. It’s a treat you can feel good about eating. This recipe is easy for anyone to follow, making a dessert that everyone will love.
FAQ
Can You Make This Cake in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare parts of Strawberry Shortcake Cake ahead. But, it’s best to put it together just before serving. This keeps it from getting soggy.
Keep the cake layers, strawberries, and whipped cream separate. Store them in airtight containers. Assembling it close to serving time keeps it fresh and tasty.
What to Do If the Cake Cracks?
If your cake layers crack, you can hide the cracks with extra frosting. Or, use the broken pieces as the middle layer. Cover them with strawberries and whipped cream.
This way, your cake looks great and tastes wonderful.
Can You Use Other Fruits Instead of Strawberries?
Yes! You can use peaches or mixed berries instead of strawberries. They add a new twist to your dessert. And they keep the dessert fresh and tasty.
How Do You Stabilize the Whipped Cream Frosting?
To stabilize whipped cream, mix heavy cream, sugar, and a stabilizer like cornstarch. Chill the bowl and beaters first. Whip the cream until soft, then add sugar and stabilizer while whipping more.
This makes the frosting hold its shape on the cake.
What Are Some Alternatives for Dietary Restrictions?
For special diets, use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour. Also, use vegan substitutes for dairy and eggs. This way, everyone can enjoy the Strawberry Shortcake Cake without worries.
How Do You Keep the Cake Moist?
To keep the cake moist, don’t over-bake the layers. You can also use a simple syrup before assembling. This keeps the cake tender and moist.
What Are Some Tips for Choosing the Best Strawberries?
Pick ripe and fragrant strawberries for the best taste and look. High-quality strawberries make your cake taste better and look nicer. Clean and hull them well before using.
Can You Use Different Frosting Options?
Yes, you can try different frostings like cream cheese or mascarpone cream. These frostings add unique flavors and textures. They let you get creative and please different tastes.