Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve landed in the right spot! This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is truly one of my favorites. It’s not just about the beautiful layers and vibrant colors; it’s about the delightful combination of fluffy vanilla cake and juicy strawberries, all topped off with airy whipped cream. This cake has a way of bringing everyone together, whether it’s at a family gathering or just a cozy weeknight dinner.

What I love most about this cake is its refreshing taste and elegant presentation, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer picnic, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake will impress everyone. Trust me when I say that once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake, making it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake the cake in advance and assemble it just before serving for easy entertaining.
• Customizable Layers: Feel free to mix in other fruits or flavors to make it uniquely yours.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered look of this cake makes it an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen! Let’s gather everything you need to create this scrumptious Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting.

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
• Additional whole strawberries for garnish (optional)

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your liking.

• Add Other Fruits: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a colorful berry medley.
• Try Different Extracts: Experiment with lemon or orange extract for a citrusy twist.
• Use Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream: For a slightly tangy flavor while keeping it light.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything is ready when it’s time to mix. Greasing and lining your cake pans will also make removing the cakes easier later on!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and oil until well combined. Then add in the eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, sour cream, and milk. Mixing these wet ingredients creates a rich base for your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that fluffy texture in your cake!

Step 5: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in two cups of sliced strawberries into your batter. This adds delicious flavor pockets throughout your cake.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing until creamy. In another bowl, whip very cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture until combined.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer of cake on your serving plate. Spread some strawberry jam over it followed by whipped cream frosting and some fresh strawberries. Place the second layer on top and repeat! Finish by frosting the sides and top with more whipped cream and decorate with whole strawberries if desired.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting! It’s sure to bring smiles all around.

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

Creating the perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is all about the details! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: When your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature, they incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a fluffier texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher crumb.

• Macerate Your Strawberries: Allowing your strawberries to sit with sugar for about 30 minutes enhances their natural sweetness and creates a delicious syrup that adds moisture to your cake layers.

• Chill Your Cream Before Whipping: Cold heavy cream whips up better and holds its shape longer. For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters too!

• Layer Thoughtfully: Spread a layer of whipped cream between each cake layer generously. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake moist and inviting.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Serving this delightful cake is as important as making it! With its vibrant colors and luscious textures, you want to present it beautifully. Here are some ideas to make your dessert an eye-catching centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and freshness that complements the strawberries perfectly.
• Shaved Chocolate: Lightly sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving makes for a lovely finish that adds sweetness without overpowering the dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the soft cake and fresh strawberries, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cake while adding additional flavors—think blueberries, raspberries, or even kiwi!
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Serve alongside a cold glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing beverage option that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a rich contrast to the lightness of the shortcake, offering guests an extra indulgent treat on their plate.

Enjoy this beautiful dessert at your next gathering—it’s sure to be a hit!

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 whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how to store and preserve this tasty treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, place the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though it may lose some moisture.
• Keep the whipped cream frosting separate if possible, adding it just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Alternatively, you can freeze the entire cake by wrapping it securely as described above.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months; be sure to label it with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• If you’d like to warm a slice slightly, you can use a microwave in short intervals (about 10-15 seconds) until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert.

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

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it properly. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve for best results.

How do I keep my Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your strawberries are well-drained after maceration. Additionally, assembling the cake shortly before serving will help keep it fresh.

Can I substitute for heavy whipping cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping as alternatives for those avoiding heavy cream.

What types of strawberries work best for this cake?

Fresh, ripe strawberries are ideal. Look for juicy berries that are bright red and firm for maximum flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting! Its fluffy layers and fresh strawberries make it truly special for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to bring your loved ones along on this baking adventure, and enjoy every bite together. Happy baking!