Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not just any cake; it’s a celebration of summer in every bite. Imagine layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet macerated strawberries, and dreamy whipped cream frosting coming together to create a delightful treat. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or even just a lovely evening at home when you want to indulge a little.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by. Plus, who doesn’t love the combination of juicy strawberries and airy cream? It’s refreshing and oh-so-delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves strawberry shortcake! It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare components in advance, so you’re ready for any occasion without stress.
• Deliciously fresh flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and light whipped cream makes each bite feel like summer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting, you will need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find at your local grocery store!

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 Strawberries

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious variations:

• Add different fruits: Try substituting strawberries with raspberries or peaches for a refreshing twist.
• Experiment with flavors: Swap out vanilla extract for lemon or orange zest for a citrusy kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
• Layer with chocolate: Drizzle some melted chocolate between the layers for an indulgent chocolate-strawberry experience.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the cake. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar and oil until combined. Then add the eggs and egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporating air into your batter at this stage helps create that fluffy texture we love.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the pure vanilla extract and optional almond extract to your egg mixture. Stir in the sour cream and milk until everything is smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake. Now gradually fold in your dry ingredients until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 3: Bake Your Cakes

Divide your batter evenly into prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Macerate Strawberries

While your cakes are cooling, take those beautiful strawberries and mix them with strawberry jam in a bowl. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process draws out their natural juices and enhances their sweetness—perfect for layering!

Step 5: Make Whipped Cream Frosting

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract then gradually pour in heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat until soft peaks form. This will create that luscious whipped cream frosting that pairs perfectly with our moist cake!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once everything has cooled down completely, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer of cake on your serving platter and spread half of the macerated strawberries over it. Top with whipped cream frosting before adding the second layer of cake on top. Repeat with remaining strawberries and frosting on top while adding whole strawberries as garnish if desired!

And there you have it—a stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting ready for any occasion! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

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

Making the perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake is all about the details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose ripe strawberries: Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures maximum flavor and sweetness in your cake. Look for berries that are bright red and firm for the best results.
• Room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, milk, and sour cream to room temperature helps create a better emulsion in the batter, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.
• Don’t over-mix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ones, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a moist and airy one.
• Cool completely before frosting: Letting the cake layers cool completely prevents the whipped cream frosting from melting. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful layers!
• Prepare ahead of time: You can macerate your strawberries and make the whipped cream frosting ahead of time. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to develop beautifully.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dessert! Whether it’s a family gathering or a celebration with friends, here are some simple yet elegant ideas.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Chocolate shavings: For a touch of decadence, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top of your whipped cream frosting. It adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast to the lightness of the cake, providing a rich and comforting addition.
• Lemon sorbet: The citrusy zing of lemon sorbet refreshes your palate and balances out the sweetness of the strawberry shortcake. It’s an excellent choice for warm days.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made from seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi offers a fresh and colorful complement to your dessert.
• Cup of tea or coffee: Pairing this cake with a warm beverage enhances its flavors. A cup of chamomile tea or freshly brewed coffee makes for an inviting experience.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting will be not just delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If the frosting is already applied, it’s best to keep it in the fridge to maintain its freshness.
• For best texture, keep the layers separate until ready to serve if possible.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake slightly warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place slices on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid overheating as this can dry out the cake.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert:

Can I use frozen strawberries for the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

Yes! While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make my whipped cream frosting fluffy?

To achieve a fluffy whipped cream frosting, ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping. Start at a low speed and gradually increase to medium-high until soft peaks form.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! While strawberries are traditional, you can substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist on this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake.

How long does it take to make the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

The total time needed is approximately 50 minutes including prep and cooking. It’s quick enough for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting truly captures the essence of summer celebrations. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! The combination of fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy frosting creates a dessert that’s not only beautiful but incredibly satisfying. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations; I’d love to hear how yours turns out!