Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering, you’re in the right place! This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience! Each bite combines fluffy vanilla cake with sweet, juicy strawberries and light, airy cream that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family barbecue, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, this cake will surely impress your friends and family.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or prepare it ahead of time for those festive occasions. Trust me; once you serve this beauty, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet strawberries and creamy frosting—it’s the perfect cake for everyone!
• Make-ahead option: You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just frost it before serving for fresh flavor.
• Beautiful presentation: Layered cakes are always showstoppers and make any occasion feel extra special.
• Deliciously refreshing: The combination of strawberries and whipped cream makes this cake a light and satisfying dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients should be half the fun! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Here’s what you need to create this delicious 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 Strawberry Filling

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add citrus zest: Brighten up your cake by adding lemon or orange zest to the batter for a zesty twist.
• Use mixed berries: Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries—or use a mix of all three for an exciting berry medley.
• Try different extracts: If you love coconut, consider using coconut extract instead of almond for a tropical flair.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for an equally delicious dessert.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing two 9-inch round cake pans will ensure your cakes come out easily after baking. Also, gather all your ingredients so everything is within reach. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial because it helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, sour cream, and milk. Beat these together until smooth and well incorporated. The oil adds moisture while the eggs provide structure—this combination creates that perfect moist texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense cakes rather than light ones.

Step 5: Bake

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Strawberries

While your cakes cool down, take those fresh strawberries! Toss two cups of sliced strawberries with strawberry jam in a bowl and let them macerate. This enhances their sweetness and creates delicious juices.

Step 7: Make Frosting

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined—this will give your frosting that light texture!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once everything is cool, place one layer of cake on your serving platter. Spread half of the macerated strawberries on top followed by a generous layer of whipped cream frosting. Add the second layer of cake on top and repeat with remaining strawberries and frosting.

Step 9: Garnish

For an extra touch of beauty, feel free to garnish with whole strawberries on top!

And there you have it—a stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting that’s sure to delight everyone around your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Creating a perfect strawberry shortcake cake is all about the little details, and with these tips, you’re sure to impress your guests!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature will help create a smooth batter that traps air efficiently, making your cake light and fluffy.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined prevents developing too much gluten in the flour, which can lead to a dense cake. A gentle hand will keep it tender!

• Let Strawberries Macerate: Allowing your sliced strawberries to sit with sugar for at least 30 minutes enhances their natural sweetness and creates a delicious syrup that seeps into the cake layers.

• Chill Your Mixing Bowl: For the whipped cream frosting, chilling your mixing bowl and beaters will help achieve stiff peaks more quickly, resulting in a fluffier and more stable frosting.

• Layer Wisely: When assembling the cake, spread some strawberry jam between layers to add extra flavor and moisture. It’s an easy trick that elevates your dessert!

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Serving this stunning dessert can be just as delightful as making it! With its vibrant colors and inviting flavors, it’s perfect for any gathering or celebration.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Chocolate Shavings: Lightly sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream for an elegant touch and a delightful contrast in flavor.
• Extra Strawberries: Place whole strawberries on top or around the sides of the cake for a visually appealing presentation that celebrates the fruit’s freshness.

Side Dishes

• Lemon Sorbet: This light and refreshing sorbet is perfect for cleansing the palate between bites of rich cake. Its citrusy notes enhance the strawberry flavor beautifully.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances out the fruity tartness of the strawberries while complementing the cake’s sweetness.
• Fruit Salad: A simple mix of seasonal fruits not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to each slice of cake. Consider using berries, melons, and citrus segments for variety.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Serve alongside refreshing beverages like sweet iced tea or homemade lemonade. Their zesty flavors make great companions to this delightful dessert.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll have everything you need to present a stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting that’s sure to wow your friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delectable dessert without the last-minute rush. With a few simple steps, you can make this cake ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, the cake can also be refrigerated to extend its shelf life to about 5 days.
• Ensure that the whipped cream frosting is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For best quality, consume frozen cake within 1-2 months.
• Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• If desired, you can slightly warm pieces of cake in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Be careful not to overheat, as it may affect the texture of the whipped cream frosting.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert.

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

Yes! You can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess liquid in your cake.

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

To prevent sogginess, make sure your strawberries are well-drained after macerating. Additionally, avoid applying frosting too far in advance of serving.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fun twist on this classic dessert.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for the frosting?

For a lighter option, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream alternative that’s suitable for your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting! Its light and airy texture combined with fresh strawberries makes it a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a sweet moment at home, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!