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Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Zac M., smiling male baking coach in a bright kitchen wearing a denim shirt and apron, arms crossedZac M.
A delightful Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake with fresh strawberries and creamy layers, perfect for any celebration.
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 salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup milk

Strawberry Filling

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Strawberry Filling

  • In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their juices and form a syrup.

Whipped Cream

  • In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assembling the Cake

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of strawberry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process. Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top and decorate with whole strawberries.

Serving and Storage

  • Slice the cake with a serrated knife for clean cuts. Serve as a dessert for any occasion.
  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Chill the cake layers before assembling for easier handling.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a glass of prosecco or fresh lemonade.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the cake layers a day ahead and assemble the cake just before serving.
Keyword Easy Strawberry Layer Cake, fresh strawberry cake, Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake