Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer, this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is the answer! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress your loved ones.

What makes this cake so special is its light and fluffy vanilla cake paired with succulent strawberries. Each layer is adorned with airy whipped cream that melts in your mouth. Trust me, once you serve this beauty, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll whip up this cake in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet strawberry flavor and creamy frosting.
• Perfect for any occasion: From birthdays to picnics, this cake shines at any gathering.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the layers in advance and assemble when you’re ready to serve.
• Elegant presentation: The beautiful layers of strawberries and cream make it a showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s get started on creating this delightful treat!

For the Cake

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 2 large egg whites (at room temperature)
• 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but highly recommended)
• ⅔ cup sour cream
• ¾ cup milk (preferably whole or 2%, at room temperature)

For the Strawberry Layer

• 3 cups fresh strawberries (sliced or diced, divided)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam

For the Whipped Cream Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to cool room temperature)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups heavy whipping cream (very cold, straight from the fridge)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

• Add citrus zest: Brighten up the cake by adding some lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing twist.
• Use different berries: Swap out strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley delight.
• Try flavored extracts: Experiment with different extracts like coconut or lemon to give your frosting an exciting flair.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this treat without worry.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two round cake pans ensures that your cakes release easily after baking. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix together the sugar and oil until well combined. Adding eggs one at a time keeps everything moist and fluffy!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in your vanilla extract, almond extract if using, sour cream, and milk into the sugar mixture. This combination adds moisture and richness to your cake. Gradually fold in your dry ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Bake Your Cakes

Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before removing from pans—this helps maintain their shape.

Step 4: Prepare Your Strawberries

While your cakes cool, slice up those beautiful strawberries! Toss them with strawberry jam to enhance their sweetness. This juicy layer will make every bite heavenly!

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then add in vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate very cold heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat until soft peaks form. This will give you that airy frosting that’s perfect for layering!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are completely cooled, it’s time for assembly! Place one layer on a serving platter and spread a generous amount of whipped cream frosting over it. Top with half of your macerated strawberries before adding the second layer of cake on top. Repeat with more frosting and strawberries on top!

And there you have it—your stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is ready to shine! Enjoy every delicious bite with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Creating the perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out stunningly delicious and beautifully presented:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smoother batter and a more uniform rise, resulting in a fluffy cake that’s light and airy.

• Don’t skip the macerating step: Letting the strawberries sit with sugar allows them to release their juices, intensifying their flavor and creating a delightful syrup that complements the cake perfectly.

• Whip your cream properly: For the best whipped cream frosting, ensure that your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping. This will help it hold its shape better and provide that luscious texture.

• Layer wisely: When assembling your cake, spread whipped cream between layers but leave some for the top and sides. This not only enhances the aesthetics but also ensures every bite is filled with creamy goodness.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving helps meld the flavors together, making each slice even more delicious.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Presenting your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Shaved chocolate: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings on top enhances both flavor and visual appeal, adding an elegant touch.
• Extra strawberry slices: A few whole or halved strawberries placed on top or around the cake makes for a beautiful presentation that highlights the star ingredient.

Side Dishes

• Lemonade: A cool glass of lemonade balances out the sweetness of the cake with its zesty freshness, making it a perfect warm-weather companion.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this strawberry shortcake, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits complements the cake’s flavors while keeping dessert light and refreshing.
• Herbal tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can provide a gentle finish after indulging in this rich dessert, enhancing your overall dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a beautiful centerpiece for your next gathering. Enjoy every moment of making (and sharing) this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cake in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate the cake for up to 3 days.
• If the strawberries begin to release too much juice, consider adding a layer of plastic wrap directly over the strawberries to keep them fresh.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• To thaw, transfer the cake to the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, allow the cake to come to room temperature on its own after thawing.
• If you prefer it warm, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert:

Can I make the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the cake a day in advance. Just assemble it with whipped cream and strawberries before serving for the best taste and presentation.

What is the best way to store leftover Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor!

Can I substitute ingredients in this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream and a plant-based heavy cream alternative for whipping if desired.

How do I keep my whipped cream from deflating on the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake?

Ensure your whipped cream is very cold when whipping, and consider adding a bit of cornstarch or instant pudding mix to stabilize it if you expect to store it for multiple days.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings joy and sweetness into your home. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do, whether it’s for a special occasion or just because. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or any variations you try—I love connecting over food! Happy baking!