Print

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Cake

This strawberry shortcake cake features light, airy vanilla sponge layers paired with stabilized whipped cream and fresh berries. It’s the perfect centerpiece for special occasions or casual gatherings, offering a harmonious balance of sweetness and fruit brightness. The detailed guide walks you through each stage—from ingredient selection to flawless decoration—ensuring professional results at home.

Ingredients

  • For the cake:
    • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
    • 1 Tbsp baking powder
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 large eggs, room temperature
    • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
    • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the filling & topping:
    • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
    • ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
• Add the softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• While the cakes cool, make the whipped cream: in a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla on high speed until stiff peaks form.
• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream over the top, then arrange half of the sliced strawberries in an even layer.
• Top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate the top with the remaining strawberries.
• Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the whipped cream set.
• Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Ingredient Temperature: Use room-temperature eggs and softened butter for proper emulsion and volume.
  • Stabilizing Cream: Gelatin or cream of tartar enhances whipped cream firmness for extended display.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: Bake and freeze layers days ahead; assemble the day before serving for convenience.
  • Decorating Tools: An offset spatula, piping tips, and turntable simplify assembly and create clean edges.
  • Substitutions: Almond or gluten-free flours, alternative sweeteners, and seasonal fruits adapt this recipe to dietary needs.
  • Troubleshooting: Avoid overmixing batter and cream to maintain optimal cake texture. Ensure pans are level for uniform layers.