Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer, then this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is just what you need! This cake is not only beautiful to look at, but it’s also incredibly tasty, combining fluffy vanilla cake with juicy strawberries and light, airy cream. It’s a recipe that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and sunny picnics. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a beloved staple in your home!

Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. The layers of moist cake and fresh strawberries create a charming presentation that makes every slice feel like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake comes together quickly with simple steps. Even beginners can create something impressive!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this moist strawberry shortcake cake. It’s a hit at any gathering!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to serve.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and whipped cream gives a refreshing taste that brightens any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious dessert. You’ll find everything you need for the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting right here!

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 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Different Fruits: Swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
• Change the Extracts: Experiment with different flavors by using lemon or coconut extract instead of vanilla or almond.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
• Try a Layered Version: Create individual mini cakes by layering smaller rounds of cake with strawberries and cream in jars for beautiful presentations.

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). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), sour cream, and milk until well combined. Gradually add in the dry ingredients until just mixed; be careful not to overmix!

Step 2: Bake the Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries

While your cakes are cooling, slice up about two cups of fresh strawberries and mix them in a bowl with strawberry jam. This mixture will provide that delicious fruity layer between your cake’s slices! Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes so they can macerate—this helps release their natural juices.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

In another mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then add in vanilla extract. Gradually pour in very cold heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This frosting will be light and fluffy—perfect for our strawberry shortcake!

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once everything has cooled down, it’s time to assemble! Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread half of the macerated strawberries over it. Add about one-third of your whipped cream frosting on top of the strawberries. Place the second layer of cake on top and repeat with remaining strawberries and frosting. Feel free to use extra whole strawberries as garnish if you’d like!

Enjoy every bite of your beautiful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting!

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

Making this cake is a joy, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, milk, and sour cream to room temperature helps them mix more thoroughly, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake.

• Don’t skip the macerating step: Allowing the strawberries to sit with sugar for a bit releases their juices, creating a delicious syrup that enhances the flavor throughout the cake.

• Whip your cream properly: Make sure your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping. This ensures it will hold its shape better when frosted onto the cake.

• Level your cake layers: After baking, use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops off the cakes. This creates even layers that stack beautifully and makes for easier slicing.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Presenting your strawberry shortcake can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine on any table.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing note that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Drizzle of strawberry sauce: Use some of the macerated strawberry juices or puree for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal on each slice.
• Zest of lemon: A light dusting of lemon zest over the top not only brightens the appearance but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a rich contrast to the lightness of the cake. It’s perfect for those who enjoy classic pairings.
• Fruit Salad: A mixture of seasonal fruits can add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the cake. Think berries, melons, and citrus for variety!
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade or iced tea pair wonderfully with this dessert, making it feel like a warm-weather treat.
• Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers. The slight saltiness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the shortcake.

Enjoy presenting your beautiful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting—it’s sure to impress everyone at your gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready for any occasion without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the frosting separate if possible to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating the entire cake, as this may affect the texture of the frosting.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may help you as you prepare this delightful dessert!

How can I ensure my Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting stays fluffy?

To keep your cake fluffy, be sure not to overmix your batter once you’ve added the flour. Also, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before using them.

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

While fresh strawberries are recommended for their taste and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if they are thawed and drained well. This will help maintain the integrity of your cake.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut cream or a whipped topping alternative that suits your dietary preferences.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How do I prevent my whipped cream from deflating?

To keep your whipped cream stable, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping. Additionally, adding a touch of cornstarch or powdered sugar while whipping can help maintain its structure.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting! It’s not only a recipe; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and memories waiting to be made. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just because it’s sunny outside, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones!