Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake

There’s something truly delightful about a Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake that brings joy to every occasion. Picture layers of fluffy cake, bursting with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, all topped with rich whipped cream. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a picnic in the park, or simply a cozy weekend dessert, this cake has a way of brightening up any gathering. The vibrant red of the strawberries against the soft, golden cake creates an eye-catching dessert sure to impress your family and friends.

The experience of digging into this delightful creation is sensational. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of softness, sweetness, and creaminess that dances on your palate. In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about making this luscious dessert—from selecting your ingredients to step-by-step instructions that ensure success every time. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey that will elevate your baking game!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses fresh strawberries for a juicy, sweet flavor.
2. Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make this cake approachable for all skill levels.
3. Nutrition: Enjoy a dessert made with wholesome ingredients, making it a better choice.
4. Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to everyday treats.
5. Presentation: The vibrant colors and layers make for a stunning centerpiece.

With all these wonderful benefits, you’ll want to share this recipe with friends and family!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious cake, start by selecting 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¾ cup of unsalted butter (room temperature), 1¾ cups of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs (room temperature), 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 cup of whole milk (room temperature), 1 tablespoon of optional lemon zest, 1½ pounds of fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced), ¼ to ⅓ cup of granulated sugar (to taste), 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for the cream, and 2 cups of chilled heavy whipping cream with ½ cup of powdered sugar (to taste) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For extra stability, consider adding 8 oz of softened mascarpone or cream cheese.

Flour

Flour provides the structure for the cake.

• Preparation: Measure with a spoon to keep it light.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use gluten-free flour or almond flour.
• Tips: Ensure flour is fresh for the best results.

Baking Powder

This ingredient helps the cake rise and become fluffy.

• Preparation: Measure carefully.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use baking soda with an acid, like yogurt or lemon juice.
• Tips: Check the expiration date for effectiveness.

Salt

Salt enhances the flavors in your cake.

• Preparation: Just a small pinch works wonders.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, omit for a sweeter taste.
• Tips: Use fine salt for better mixing.

Butter

Butter adds richness and moisture.

• Preparation: Make sure it’s at room temperature to beat easily.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use margarine or coconut oil.
• Tips: Avoid melting the butter for the best texture.

Sugar

Sweetens the cake and balances flavors.

• Preparation: Granulated sugar should be packed when measuring.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, consider coconut sugar or honey.
• Tips: Adjust the amount to your taste preference.

Eggs

Eggs provide moisture and richness to the cake.

• Preparation: Use large eggs and bring to room temperature.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan option.
• Tips: Fresh eggs whip better for aeration.

Vanilla Extract

This adds a warm, sweet flavor to your cake.

• Preparation: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, almond extract can work in a pinch.
• Tips: Store in a cool, dark place for longevity.

Milk

Milk contributes moisture and richness.

• Preparation: Ensure it’s at room temperature for best mixing.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use almond milk, soy milk, or any other preferred milk.
• Tips: Avoid sour milk to keep flavors fresh.

Strawberries

Fresh strawberries bring sweetness and color.

• Preparation: Hull and slice them before adding to the cake.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, try raspberries or blueberries.
• Tips: Use ripe berries for maximum sweetness.

Whipped Cream

Cream adds a light and fluffy topping.

• Preparation: Chill the cream for better whipping.
• Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, use non-dairy whipped topping.
• Tips: Avoid over-whipping to prevent buttering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s enjoy the process of making this one-pan cake, which is easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract and alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is a crucial step that affects the cake’s texture.

Step 4: Prepare The Strawberries

While the cake is cooling, combine the sliced strawberries with ¼ to ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and a tablespoon of lemon juice in a bowl. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release their juices—this makes the strawberries even juicier and more flavorful!

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form, being careful not to over-whip.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, slice it in half horizontally. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the bottom half, then add a generous amount of strawberries. Place the top half of the cake on, and repeat with whipped cream and strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cake for about 30 minutes to set. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. Once ready, slice and serve!

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Decorate with additional strawberry slices on top for a pop of color.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with extra whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
3. Portions: Cut into generous slices for a satisfying treat.
4. Beverage Pairing: Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

This cake is sure to bring joy, so enjoy sharing it!

Additional Tips

• Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of orange juice for a lovely citrus tone to the strawberries.
• Customization: Try different fruits like peaches or blueberries for new flavors.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve slices with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra decadence.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Strawberry Cake: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist.
2. Lemon Strawberry Shortcake: Incorporate lemon zest into the cake and fill with lemon curd alongside strawberries.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment

1. 9-inch round cake pan
2. Mixing bowls
3. Electric mixer
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Spatula
6. Whisk

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, but they may release more liquid. Thaw and drain before using.

2. Is this a healthy dessert?
   While it has sugar, using fresh strawberries adds nutrients, making it a better choice than some processed desserts.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, bake the cake a day in advance and assemble the day you’re serving for freshness.

4. Can I customize the flavors?
   Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate almond or lemon flavors for variety.

5. What if I don’t have a mixer?
   You can mix everything by hand, but it may take longer to achieve a fluffy texture.

Conclusion

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience filled with flavor and joy. The freshness of strawberries combined with light whipped cream and a soft cake creates a dessert that’s perfect for lively gatherings or quiet moments at home. Don’t hesitate to whip up this stunning cake to celebrate life’s sweet moments ahead!

Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Enjoy layers of fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and rich whipped cream in this delightful strawberry shortcake that brightens up any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Fresh flour for best results.
• 2.5 teaspoons baking powder Check expiration date.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt Use fine salt for better mixing.
• 0.75 cups unsalted butter (room temperature) Avoid melting for best texture.
• 1.75 cups granulated sugar Adjust to taste preference.
• 4 large eggs (room temperature) Fresh eggs whip better.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Use pure extract for best flavor.
• 1 cup whole milk (room temperature) Avoid sour milk.
• 1 tablespoon optional lemon zest For added flavor.
• 1.5 pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced) Use ripe strawberries for sweetness.
• 0.25 cups granulated sugar (to taste) Combine with strawberries.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Enhances strawberry flavor.

For the Whipped Cream

• 2 cups chilled heavy whipping cream Chill for better whipping.
• 0.5 cups powdered sugar (to taste) Adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For flavor.
• 8 oz softened mascarpone or cream cheese For extra stability (optional).

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
• Add the eggs, one by one, mixing well after each addition.
• Incorporate the vanilla extract and alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk until just combined.

Baking the Cake

• Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Preparing the Strawberries

• Combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice in a bowl.
• Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release their juices.

Making the Whipped Cream

• In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Whip until soft peaks form, being careful not to over-whip.

Assembling the Cake

• Once the cake has cooled, slice it in half horizontally.
• Spread a layer of whipped cream over the bottom half and add a generous amount of strawberries.
• Place the top half of the cake on, and repeat with whipped cream and strawberries on top.

Chilling and Serving

• Refrigerate the assembled cake for about 30 minutes to set.
• Slice and serve once ready!

Notes

Decorate with additional strawberry slices on top for a pop of color. Serve with extra whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Keyword Baking, Celebration Cake, Dessert Recipes, Fresh Strawberries, Strawberry Shortcake