Name: Japanese Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (Let them come to room temperature for better volume.); 60 g Whole Milk (Ensure it’s at room temperature.); 45 ml Vegetable Oil (Use light vegetable oil for moisture.); 90 g Granulated Sugar (Sift for smoother blending.); 55 g All-Purpose Flour (Spoon into the measuring cup for accuracy.); 55 g Cornstarch (Mix with flour to avoid clumping.); 600 ml Heavy Cream (Chill bowl and beaters for faster whipping.); 100 g Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 370 g Fresh Strawberries (Ripe and sliced for decoration.)

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Japanese Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends fluffy sponge cake with sweet strawberries and rich whipped cream. This iconic treat features a beautiful presentation, making it a showstopper for any occasion, from birthdays to anniversaries or simply a weekend family dessert. Its light and airy texture, complemented by the juicy strawberries, creates a flavor experience that’s refreshingly sweet and satisfying.

As you dive into this article, you’ll discover the joy of making this delightful cake, along with tips and detailed steps to ensure your success. You’ll learn how to utilize fresh ingredients effectively and how to present your shortcake beautifully. With an approachable recipe and straightforward instructions, you’re on the path to impressing friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Featuring ripe strawberries, this cake bursts with natural sweetness and freshness.
Ease of Preparation: The straightforward steps make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to create.
Nutrition: With fresh fruit and whipped cream, it’s a lighter dessert option.
Versatility: Enjoy it for any celebration, or even as a treat just because!
Presentation: Its vibrant layers are visually stunning, adding elegance to your table.

This strawberry shortcake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the Japanese Strawberry Shortcake, begin by selecting quality ingredients.

Eggs

You typically use large eggs for their ideal texture and moisture.
Let them come to room temperature for better volume when beaten.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, applesauce can replace eggs in certain baked goods but will alter the texture.
Tip: Always check for freshness by placing eggs in water; if they sink, they’re good.

Milk

Whole milk adds creaminess to the cake, enhancing its richness.
Measure out 60 g (¼ cup) for the perfect moisture.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, almond milk or coconut milk can be used.
Tip: Ensure it’s at room temperature to blend better.

Vegetable Oil

Use light vegetable oil for added moisture without flavor interference.
Mix in 45 ml (3 tablespoons) to the batter.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, melted butter is a great option but may enrich the flavor.
Tip: Don’t skip oil for best moisture!

Sugar

Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and stabilizes the whipped cream.
Use 90 g (about ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons) for the cake and 65 g (⅓ cup) for the cream.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, coconut sugar or honey can work, though they may adjust the flavor profile.
Tip: Make sure to sift sugar when needed for smoother blending.

Flour

All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for your cake.
Prepare 55 g (about ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons) for the batter.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, cake flour can yield a softer cake.
Tip: Always spoon flour into the measuring cup for accuracy.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch helps create a tender texture.
Use 55 g (about ⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons) in conjunction with flour.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, tapioca starch is an option.
Tip: Mix cornstarch with flour to avoid clumping.

Whipped Cream

Fresh whipped cream adds a luxurious finish to the cake.
Beat 600 ml (2½ cups) with 100 g granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, store-bought whipped topping can be used.
Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters for faster whipping.

Strawberries

Ripe strawberries bring sweetness and color to your cake.
Use about 370 g (13 ounces), washed and sliced for decoration.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, feel free to use any berry mixture like blueberries or raspberries.
Tip: Choose brightly colored, firm strawberries for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Japanese Strawberry Shortcake is easy with just one pan!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). This ensures an even bake and a lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Whisk the eggs and sugar in a bowl until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This can take about 5-7 minutes. The volume will increase significantly.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour and cornstarch. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until no flour streaks remain, but be gentle to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Incorporate vegetable oil, milk, and water into the batter. Mix just until combined for a light texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream
While the cake cools, beat the chilled heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, slice it in half horizontally. Layer one half with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, then place the other half on top. Finish with more whipped cream and strawberries on top.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve on a decorative plate, garnished with mint leaves for color.
Accompaniments: Pair with extra whipped cream and sliced strawberries on the side.
Portions: Cut into generous slices, allowing for a satisfying dessert experience.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of green tea or a light sparkling drink.

Your guests will love digging into this classic dessert!

Additional Tips

Enhance the flavor with a dash of lemon zest in the whipped cream.
Customize the fruits used, adding blueberries or bananas based on preference.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added twist.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
Matcha Version: Incorporate matcha powder into half of the batter for a green tea flavored cake.
Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the whipped cream for a bright, citrus flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

9-inch round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack for cooling

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Frozen strawberries can be used but they may be mushy once thawed. Fresh is best for texture.

2. Is this cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.

4. What if I want to customize the flavors?
Feel free to switch the fruits or add flavoring extracts to the whipped cream for your unique twist.

5. Any other cooking methods available?
You can also cook the batter in muffin tins for individual portions, reducing the baking time to 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Making Japanese Strawberry Shortcake is a fulfilling culinary adventure that combines fresh, seasonal flavors with visual elegance. It’s a perfect choice for any celebration, whether it’s a festive gathering or simply to treat yourself. With its light sponge cake, luscious whipped cream, and sweet strawberries, you can be confident that everyone will enjoy every bite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring this delightful dessert to your table!