Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 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); 3 cups sliced or diced fresh strawberries (divided); 2 tablespoons strawberry jam; additional whole strawberries (for garnish, optional); 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)

Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cake

When it comes to homemade desserts, few can rival the charm and delight of a strawberry shortcake cake. This classic dessert combines the lightness of fluffy cake with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and airy whipped cream, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Each bite captures the essence of summer, making it a beloved choice for celebrations, picnics, or simply to satisfy a craving.

Why is Strawberry Shortcake Cake a favorite among homemade desserts?

One reason this cake remains a favorite is its versatility. You can customize it to suit any occasion, whether you're serving a casual gathering or an elegant dinner party. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, while the flavors are familiar yet refreshing. Plus, it’s a delightful way to showcase seasonal strawberries at their peak (check out this guide on selecting strawberries).

Another aspect of the strawberry shortcake cake that endears it to many is its simple preparation. Even novice bakers can whip it up with ease, making it a go-to dessert for those looking to impress without the fuss. With just a few essential ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dessert that’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

When crafting a delightful strawberry shortcake cake, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s a simple breakdown to guide you through the essentials!

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To create the perfect base for your strawberry shortcake cake, you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: 2½ cups
Baking powder: 3 teaspoons to make it rise
Salt: Just a pinch (½ teaspoon) to enhance flavors
Granulated sugar: 1¾ cups for sweetness
Vegetable or canola oil: ½ cup for moisture
Eggs: 2 large, plus 2 egg whites, both at room temperature
Extracts: Vanilla (2½ teaspoons) is a must, and almond (½ teaspoon) adds a nice twist!
Sour cream: ⅔ cup for creaminess
Milk: ¾ cup, preferably whole or 2%, also at room temperature

The Kitchn provides more on flour types if you're interested in touching up those baking skills!

What You Need for the Filling

For the luscious filling that complements your cake, gather:

Fresh strawberries: 3 cups, sliced or diced
Strawberry jam: 2 tablespoons to bind the fruit together

This delightful combination will elevate your flavors and make each bite refreshing!

Key Items for the Frosting

The frosting is where you can get creative! Here’s what you need:

Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
Powdered sugar: 1 cup for sweetness
Vanilla extract: ¾ teaspoon for added flavor
Heavy whipping cream: 2¼ cups, super cold for a luscious texture

Need tips on whipping cream? Check out Serious Eats for expert advice!

By gathering these ingredients, you'll be well on your way to making a luscious strawberry shortcake cake that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Crafting a delicious strawberry shortcake cake from scratch is an enjoyable experience that ends with a delightful treat. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll impress your friends and family with your baking prowess!

Preheat the oven and prepare your cake pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is crucial for even baking! While your oven heats up, grab three 8-inch round cake pans. Line them with parchment paper and grease the sides. This step ensures that your cake layers will slide out of the pans effortlessly once they’re baked. Taking this time upfront saves frustration later, trust me!

Combine dry ingredients for the cake batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2½ cups of flour, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until they’re well combined. This mixture forms the base of your cake, providing that essential structure. Setting this aside now means we can focus on our wet ingredients next.

Mix wet ingredients and combine with dry ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), mix 1¾ cups of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 eggs, 2 egg whites, and your extracts (both vanilla and optional almond) until thoroughly combined. Next, add ⅔ cup of sour cream to the mix, followed by half of your prepared dry ingredients. Gradually mix in ¾ cup of milk to help create a smooth batter, finishing with the remaining flour mixture. Be sure not to overmix—stop when everything is just combined!

Bake the cake layers to perfection

Evenly distribute your batter among the three prepared cake pans. Gently tap the pans on the counter to release any air bubbles (this is key for a light texture). Bake them for about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Rotating the pans halfway through can help promote even browning. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before moving on to the filling.

Prepare the strawberry filling

Now comes the fun part—prepping the strawberries! Combine 3 cups of sliced or diced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam. This delightful mixture adds sweetness and extra moisture, making every bite of your strawberry shortcake cake unforgettable.

Whip up the cream cheese frosting

For the frosting, place 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ¾ teaspoon of vanilla extract into a large bowl. Beat this until smooth. Then, while mixing on medium speed, slowly add 2¼ cups of very cold heavy whipping cream. Increase the speed to high until stiff peaks form—this will create a delightful, luscious frosting!

Assemble your cake masterpiece

It’s assembly time! Start with one layer of the cake on your platter. Spread a third of the whipped frosting on top, followed by about 1¼ cups of your strawberry filling. Repeat this process with the second layer. For the top layer, finish with the remaining frosting and sprinkle the rest of your strawberries in the center. Feeling fancy? Add whole strawberries around the edges for a stunning presentation!

And voilà! You’ve created an exquisite strawberry shortcake cake that’s sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. Share your creation with family and friends, and watch the smiles bloom! For more strawberry inspiration, check out this delicious strawberry jam recipe.

Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Alternate cake flavors for a twist

While the classic strawberry shortcake cake is beloved, experimenting with different cake flavors can elevate your dessert game! Consider using chocolate or lemon cake for a fun twist. A chocolate strawberry shortcake cake combines rich chocolate layers with fresh strawberries for a delightful contrast. Alternatively, a lemon cake brings bright, zesty flavors that pair beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries. Don’t hesitate to get creative—try adding some matcha or spices like cinnamon to your batter for a unique flavor profile.

Seasonal fruit variations to try

To keep your strawberry shortcake cake fresh and exciting, think about incorporating seasonal fruits. In spring and summer, peaches or blueberries make excellent additions, while fall brings an opportunity to use apples and pears. You can simply replace strawberries with your fruit of choice in both the filling and topping. Imagine a luscious peach shortcake cake or a vibrant blueberry-strawberry combination that dazzles on your dessert table! Seasonal fruits not only add flavor but make for a stunning visual presentation. For more fruity ideas, check out this guide to seasonal fruits here.

Baking Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Tips for Achieving the Best Cake Texture

To create a perfectly moist and fluffy strawberry shortcake cake, always use room temperature ingredients such as eggs and milk. This helps emulsify the batter better. Be cautious when mixing—only mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake. And don't forget to tap your pans on the counter before baking to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Baking

One common pitfall is overbaking; keep a close eye on those cake layers and conduct the toothpick test a minute or two before the suggested bake time. Additionally, don’t skip lining and greasing the cake pans, as this will ensure your cakes come out without sticking. Lastly, allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting—this helps the layers hold up and prevents melting.

For more expert baking tips, check out this resource from King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Ideal Accompaniments to Enhance Your Dessert

When you're ready to enjoy your strawberry shortcake cake, consider serving it with:

Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint adds a refreshing touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream or Sorbet: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the flavors and offer a comforting creaminess.
Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest on top can bring a zesty kick that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Pairing your cake with sparkling water or a homemade lemonade can further round out the experience. Not only does it cleanse the palate, but it also enhances the sweetness of your cake.

Creative Presentation Tips for Your Cake

Presentation can make a simple strawberry shortcake cake feel glamorous. Here are a few ideas to wow your guests:

Layered Display: Use a cake stand to showcase the layers. Each slice will reveal the beautiful filling.
Garnish: Adorn the top with additional whole strawberries, fresh mint, or even edible flowers for an atypical twist.
Plate Design: Drizzle a bit of strawberry sauce or a vanilla glaze around the plate for an artisan look.

These methods not only enhance the visual appeal but also create an inviting atmosphere for your dessert. Don't shy away from experimenting! For more creative ideas, check out this guide on cake plating.

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Preparation Time

Get ready to whip up this delightful strawberry shortcake cake in just about 30 minutes! This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing the batter.

Baking Time

Don’t forget to preheat your oven! Baking takes around 18-22 minutes, depending on your oven's quirks.

Total Time

From start to finish, plan for approximately 1 hour for a deliciously sweet dessert that will impress friends and family alike. Want to save time? You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and just assemble them when you’re ready to serve!

For additional tips on perfecting your strawberry shortcake cake, check out Celebrate Sweets for more inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Understanding the nutritional profile of your favorite desserts can enhance your baking experience. Here’s a glimpse into the lively world of strawberry shortcake cake nutrition.

Calories

One slice of this delightful strawberry shortcake cake contains approximately 585 calories. While it’s a treat, savoring in moderation can keep indulgence in check.

Sugar Content

With a sweetness that dances on the palate, this cake has about 37 grams of sugar per slice. Opt for fresh strawberries to balance out the sweet richness and add natural flavor.

Protein

Each serving offers around 7 grams of protein, thanks to the eggs and dairy. This keeps it from feeling like just empty calories!

For more information on balanced dessert options, check out the USDA's guidelines on sugar intake and protein sources to complement your meal planning.

FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your strawberry shortcake cake layers in advance. Bake and cool the cake layers a day before serving, then wrap them in wax paper and plastic wrap. Just remember to hold off on assembling the cake until you're ready to enjoy it. This way, you can ensure that the cake stays fresh and delicious!

What’s the best way to store leftover cake?

To keep your leftover cake fresh, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chilling helps maintain the cream frosting's texture. Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature for the best flavor experience.

How can I customize the frosting for my cake?

Get creative with your frosting! You can try substituting cream cheese with mascarpone for a different flavor profile, or use vanilla buttercream frosting for a classic twist. For a lighter option, freshly whipped cream works, but remember to assemble it just before serving. Whichever way you choose, customize it to your taste, and enjoy!

Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Cake

In summary, the strawberry shortcake cake is a delightful treat that balances sweet, fresh strawberries with a creamy, rich frosting and tender, fluffy layers. This cake is not just a dessert but a centerpiece for gatherings and special occasions. Try it for your next celebration; you won't regret it!