Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss with this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake! As the months warm up and fresh strawberries begin to grace our markets, this cake makes the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Imagine three fluffy layers of vanilla cake, generously filled with sweet, macerated strawberries and velvety whipped cream frosting. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer in every bite! Let’s dive into this deliciously light treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather everything you need to create this stunning dessert:
- For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- For the Strawberry Filling:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Carefully divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, leaving you with beautifully golden-brown layers.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before gently transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the strawberry filling by combining the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a separate bowl. Stir gently and let this delicious mixture sit for about 30 minutes to macerate, intensifying the sweetness.
- To make the whipped cream frosting, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until stiff peaks form, creating a rich and airy topping.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and generously spread a layer of macerated strawberries on top.
- Add a luscious layer of whipped cream frosting over the strawberries, then carefully place the second cake layer on top. Repeat this delightful process with the remaining strawberry filling and whipped cream until all layers are stacked!
- Top the final cake layer with any remaining whipped cream frosting, making it smooth and inviting.
- For the finishing touch, decorate the top with a handful of fresh strawberries, and serve chilled to enjoy a refreshing experience!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries that are in season. You can also experiment by adding a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for an extra zing. If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought whipped cream, though homemade is always a treat!
Cooking Techniques
Timing is key when baking cakes. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time is up to prevent overbaking. To ensure even baking, rotate the cake pans halfway through the baking time. Macerating the strawberries enhances their juiciness and flavor, so don’t skip that step!
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Simply wrap them tightly and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.
How do I store leftover cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the strawberries separate until serving to maintain their freshness.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an expression of joy and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. With its stunning layers and fresh flavors, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate summer. I hope you enjoy every bite and create wonderful memories while making and sharing this cake!