Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Strawberry shortcake cake is a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Its layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy frosting come together to create a dessert that's both elegant and comforting. But what makes this cake a perennial favorite?
Why Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a Classic Favorite
This dessert has a timeless charm that appeals to all ages. One bite reveals the perfect balance of flavors and textures: the moist cake cradles juicy, fresh strawberries, while the airy whipped cream adds a luscious richness. The cake’s versatility also shines through—perfect for summer picnics, birthday celebrations, or anytime you want to impress without too much fuss.
The origins of strawberry shortcake date back to the 19th century in America, evolving over the years into the iconic dessert we love today. You can learn more about its historical roots here. In addition to its rich history, strawberry shortcake cake embodies the essence of seasonal fruit desserts, making it a must-try for anyone who appreciates the sweet bounty of summer.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, making your own strawberry shortcake cake is an enjoyable experience, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here's a breakdown to simplify your shopping and preparation process.
Essential Components for the Cake
For the cake itself, you’ll need:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but adds a lovely flavor)
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup milk (preferably whole or 2%)
These basic ingredients create a tender, flavorful cake that serves as the foundation for your Strawberry Shortcake Cake.
Ingredients for the Filling
For the filling, you’ll want:
- 3 cups sliced or diced fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
- Additional whole strawberries for garnish (optional)
These juicy strawberries, combined with jam, create a burst of flavor in every slice.
Ingredients for the Frosting
To top it off, gather these ingredients for the frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups heavy whipping cream (very cold)
This creamy frosting adds a luxurious touch, perfectly complementing the cake and filling.
For more tips on selecting fresh strawberries, check out resources like USDA's fruit and vegetable guide. Enjoy your baking journey!
Step-by-step Preparation of Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake can feel like an intimidating task, but don't worry! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll see how fulfilling and rewarding this baking experience can be.
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into baking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dessert:
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For the Cake:
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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3 teaspoons baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1¾ cups granulated sugar
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½ cup vegetable or canola oil
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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2 large egg whites, room temperature
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2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but highly recommended)
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⅔ cup sour cream
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¾ cup milk (preferably whole or 2%), room temperature
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For the Filling:
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3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced or diced
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2 tablespoons strawberry jam
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For the Frosting:
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
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2¼ cups heavy whipping cream, really cold
Having everything lined up and ready to go will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!
Prepare the cake batter
Now let’s make the batter! In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Meanwhile, in your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts until well combined. Add the sour cream and mix until just blended.
Gradually add half of the flour mixture, followed by the milk, and then the remaining flour. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps are completely fine!
Bake the cake layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing the sides. Carefully divide your cake batter among the pans, tapping them gently to release air bubbles.
Bake for 18-22 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Cool the layers completely on a rack before you move forward.
Prepare the filling
While the layers are cooling, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine your sliced strawberries with the strawberry jam, allowing them to soak and mix for a bit of enhanced flavor.
Make the frosting
For the frosting, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually pour in the cold heavy cream while mixing, then increase the speed. Beat until stiff peaks form; this ensures your frosting has the perfect texture.
Assemble the cake
Now for the fun part! Place one cake layer on your serving platter. Spread a third of the frosting on top, followed by about 1¼ cups of the strawberry mixture. Repeat with the second layer, and once you place the third layer on top, spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides. Garnish with whole strawberries for a stunning finish!
And there you have it—your homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cake awaits! This delightful cake is perfect for any celebration or simply to treat yourself on a cozy weekend night. Enjoy!
Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Different Fresh Fruit Fillings
Why stop at strawberries? You can make your Strawberry Shortcake Cake truly your own by experimenting with other fresh fruits. Try swapping out strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches! Each fruit brings its own unique flavor, allowing you to create a delightful twist on this classic. A mixed berry combination can also be a vibrant and tasty option. Just remember to keep the sweetness balanced with a touch of jam or sugar!
Gluten-Free Version of the Cake
For those needing a gluten-free option, you can easily adapt your Strawberry Shortcake Cake. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. This can provide the same fluffy texture without sacrificing taste. Always be sure to double-check that your other ingredients, like baking powder and vanilla extract, are gluten-free as well. With these adjustments, you can share this classic treat with everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Tips for Cake Texture
To achieve a light and fluffy texture for your Strawberry Shortcake Cake, avoid overmixing your batter. Mixing just until combined allows the cake to rise beautifully without becoming dense. Remember to always sift your dry ingredients for an airy consistency.
Best Practices for Frosting Consistency
For a perfectly whipped frosting, ensure your cream is super cold. This is essential for achieving those stiff peaks. While mixing, gradually pour the heavy cream down the side of the bowl — this helps it incorporate smoothly and avoids lumps. If you prefer a slightly sweeter frosting, consider adjusting the powdered sugar to your taste.
For more tips on perfecting your frosting, check out this guide on [whipped cream techniques](https:// www.seriouseats.com/making-whipped-cream).
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Pairing with Alternative Beverages
When serving your delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake, consider refreshing beverage options like iced tea or sparkling lemonade. These drinks complement the sweetness of the cake without overshadowing its delicate flavors. For a cozy twist, you could also serve warm chamomile tea, which brings a lovely floral note that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. A touch of mint in your iced tea can elevate the experience even further—it's an absolute must-try!
Presentation Ideas for Gatherings
Presentation amplifies the charm of your Strawberry Shortcake Cake. Consider layering elegantly on a cake stand and garnishing it with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant pop. Alternatively, serve individual slices on colorful dessert plates for a more personal touch at gatherings. Adding a small bowl of extra whipped cream or fresh strawberries on the side allows guests to customize their servings. If you want to make a statement, drape the cake with a cascade of sliced strawberries for that wow factor!
For more ideas, check out resources like The Spruce Eats for stylish presentation tips.
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
When you're craving a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake, timing is everything! Here’s a quick look at how to plan your baking adventure.
Preparation Time
Set aside 30 minutes for mixing ingredients and prepping your cake pans. This is your chance to gather everything and get into a baking groove!
Cooking Time
Allow 20 minutes for baking the cake layers. Keep an eye on them to ensure they rise beautifully and come out perfectly delicious.
Total Time
All in all, you'll need about 50 minutes to create this stunning dessert. In no time, you’ll be ready to impress with your homemade strawberry goodness!
For more baking tips and delicious recipes, check out Love and Olive Oil for some great kitchen hacks.
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
If you’re curious about the nutritional value of this delightful dessert, here’s a quick overview:
Calories
A serving of this Strawberry Shortcake Cake contains approximately 585 calories. Perfect for a special occasion!
Sugars
Each slice packs around 37 grams of sugar, predominantly from the fresh strawberries and the sweet frosting. Sweet, but not overly indulgent!
Fat
With about 36 grams of fat, primarily from the heavy whipping cream and cream cheese frosting, this cake is rich and creamy, offering decadence in every bite.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of strawberries, check out Healthline. Remember, moderation is key to enjoying this delicious cake as a treat!
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Using frozen strawberries is a great option, especially when fresh fruit isn't in season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing them with the jam to avoid excess moisture in your filling. Fresh or frozen, they both bring that delightful flavor to your strawberry shortcake experience.
How do I keep the cake fresh?
To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cake fresh, it's best to store it in the refrigerator after assembly. The whipped cream frosting can spoil if left out, so chilling it is essential for maintaining flavor and texture. If you're making the cake a day ahead, store the layers and frosting separately until you’re ready to assemble.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover cake should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out and keeps the frosting intact. Ideally, consume the leftovers within three days for the best taste and texture. If you want tips on other desserts, you can explore options on sites like Allrecipes for sweet inspiration!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Cake
In summary, the Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a delightful blend of vanilla cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries that captures summer’s essence in every slice. Perfect for gatherings or simply a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Try it out, and let us know how it turns out!
Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- mixing bowls
- 8-inch cake pans
- whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
Cake
- 2.5 cups all purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 large egg whites room temperature
- 2.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract optional, but highly recommended
- 0.67 cup sour cream
- 0.75 cup milk preferably whole or 2%, room temperature
Filling
- 3 cups sliced or diced fresh strawberries divided
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
- additional whole strawberries for garnish, optional
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to cool room temp
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 0.75 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2.25 cups heavy whipping cream really cold, straight from the fridge
Instructions
Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set aside.
- Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (preferred) or a hand mixer, beat sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts until combined. Add the sour cream and beat until combined. Add half of the flour mixture, beating until just combined. While still beating, slowly add milk, then the remaining flour mixture. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Be careful not to overmix it.
- Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and grease the pans. Evenly divide the batter between the three pans. Tap/gently drop the pans on the countertop a couple times to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If necessary, rotate the pans once during bake time to ensure even browning. Place the pans on a rack to cool completely.
Filling
- Combine the strawberries and jam and set aside (these will be used for the filling and topping).
- Slice for the filling (about 2½ cups), and dice the strawberries for the top of the cake (about ½ cup). You'll need about 3 cups total.
Frosting
- Place the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment (preferred) or hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth.
- While the mixer is still whipping, slowly pour the heavy cream down the side of the bowl. Stop and scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl periodically. Increase the speed to high and continue whipping until the cream can hold a stiff peak.
Assembly
- Place one layer of cake on a platter. Top with one-third of the frosting, then top with about 1¼ cups of strawberries. Place another layer of cake on top and repeat. For the third/top of layer of cake, top with remaining whipped cream frosting, then place the remaining strawberries in the center. Decorate the outside with whole strawberries, if desired.
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