Introduction
Welcome to a slice of heaven—Japanese Strawberry Shortcake! This delightful dessert is a beautiful celebration of light and fluffy sponge cake, topped with luscious whipped cream and juicy, ripe strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a sunny picnic, or just a sweet treat after dinner, this cake will impress your family and friends. Let’s create a dessert that not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning on your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, ensuring they are ready for our delightful batter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Add in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the batter.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll see a lovely golden brown color to the cakes.
- Remove the cakes from the oven, letting them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the whipped cream. In a large bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a rich and creamy topping.
- Once cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by a delightful layer of sliced strawberries.
- Carefully place the second layer of cake on top and cover the entire cake with more whipped cream. Don’t forget to decorate with additional strawberries on top for that picture-perfect finish!
- Slice and serve your beautiful Japanese Strawberry Shortcake, and enjoy the delightful combination of fluffy cake, rich cream, and sweet strawberries.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of strawberry syrup over the layers or infusing the whipped cream with a touch of lemon zest. This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a day if necessary. Just be sure to cover it to keep that luscious whipped cream intact!
Cooking Techniques
The success of this cake relies on a few key techniques. First, be sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and airy, which will help create that lovely fluffy texture. When mixing in the flour, fold gently to avoid deflating the batter, ensuring that your cake remains light. Finally, letting the cake cool completely before frosting is crucial for maintaining the whipped cream’s integrity.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
Conclusion
This Japanese Strawberry Shortcake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that embodies the essence of springtime with every bite. The fluffy layers, sweet strawberries, and luscious whipped cream come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re celebrating a big occasion or simply enjoying a slice at home, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!