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strawberry shortcake cake recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
This strawberry shortcake cake features layers of fluffy cake, fresh cream, and strawberries. Perfect for any celebration or as a delightful treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

Fresh Cream Filling

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Strawberry Layer

  • 3 cups fresh strawberries sliced
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar and lemon juice. Set aside to macerate.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and light. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Fresh Cream Filling

  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters. Beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Assembling the Cake

  • Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat with the second cake layer.
  • Spread a final layer of whipped cream on top and decorate with whole strawberries. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.

Serving and Storage

  • Serve the cake slightly chilled to ensure the cream holds its shape. Pair with coffee or sparkling wine for a delightful experience.
  • Cover the cake loosely and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake layers separately for longer storage.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use chilled equipment for the best whipped cream texture. Ensure cake layers are completely cooled before assembling to prevent melting.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a nutty flavor. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Best served slightly chilled with a cup of coffee or glass of sparkling wine.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze unassembled layers for longer storage.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare cake layers in advance and freeze. Assemble with fresh cream and strawberries on the day of serving.
Keyword fresh strawberry cake, layered cake recipe, strawberry shortcake cake