Introduction
There’s something magical about a classic strawberry shortcake that brings back sweet memories of warm summer days. This Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a delightful twist on the traditional favorite, combining fluffy layers of vanilla cake with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Each bite is a burst of sunshine and sweetness, perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to casual family gatherings. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe and create a dessert that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
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 9-inch round cake pans to ensure a smooth release.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add in the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the whipped cream. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, take one layer and place it on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top and add half of the sliced strawberries.
- Gently place the second cake layer on top of the strawberries and whipped cream, creating a delightful sandwich of flavors.
- Top the second layer with the remaining whipped cream and pile on the remaining strawberries.
- If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Notes or Tips
For an extra flavor boost, consider macerating the strawberries with a sprinkle of sugar for about 30 minutes before layering them in the cake. This will enhance their sweetness and create a delicious syrup that soaks into the cake. Also, if you have leftover whipped cream, it makes a wonderful topping for coffee or even fruit salad!
Cooking Techniques
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Strawberry Shortcake Cake! Try adding a layer of lemon curd between the cake and strawberries for a refreshing zest, or swap out strawberries for other berries such as blueberries or raspberries. The method of layering the cake is simple but can be modified based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just add the whipped cream and strawberries right before serving for the freshest taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered loosely to keep the whipped cream from getting soggy. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste.
Can I freeze this cake?
While the cake layers can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them without the toppings. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw and assemble with fresh whipped cream and strawberries.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Shortcake Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and a nod to the joys of home baking. With its soft cake layers, sweet strawberries, and airy whipped cream, it’s a treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you serve it at a summer picnic or an intimate dinner, this cake promises to be a showstopper. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bake something beautiful!