Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is just the thing! It’s one of those recipes that brings back sweet memories of summer days spent picking strawberries and sharing laughter with friends and family. This cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even special celebrations. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious cake ready in no time. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves strawberries! This cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike at any gathering.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare components in advance, making it a stress-free option for parties or potlucks.
• Deliciously Fresh: The combination of juicy strawberries and airy whipped cream makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients for this recipe is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create your own delightful 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 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)

For Garnish

• Additional whole strawberries for garnish (optional)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you might consider trying:

• Add Citrus Zest: Brighten things up by adding some lemon or orange zest to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
• Mix in Other Berries: Swap out some of the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a delightful berry medley.
• Use Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, substitute part of the whipped cream with whipped coconut cream.
• Try Different Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like lemon or coconut to give your cake a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that all leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout your cake.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and oil until well blended. Then add in your eggs and egg whites one at a time. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Gradually mix your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Alternate adding sour cream and milk until everything is well combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy—this is what gives our cake that moist texture!

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to dryness.

Step 5: Prepare Strawberries

While your cakes cool down, slice up those fresh strawberries! Toss them with strawberry jam to create a beautifully sweet filling that enhances every layer of our shortcake.

Step 6: Make Whipped Cream Frosting

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing continuously. Finally, fold in whipped cream gently until just combined. This frosting will be light, airy, and oh-so-delicious!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, slice each cake layer horizontally if desired. Layer cake with macerated strawberries between each layer and top generously with whipped cream frosting. Don’t forget to add some whole strawberries on top for that beautiful finishing touch!

And there you have it—your very own Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting! Enjoy each slice filled with love and sweetness as you share it with those around you!

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

Creating the perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like eggs, milk, and sour cream blend better at room temperature, which helps create a fluffy texture in the cake.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid packing it down. This prevents a dense cake that lacks the desired moisture and fluffiness.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cake, which is not what we want for our delightful shortcake.

• Let the Cake Cool Completely: Allow your layers to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and ensures that your layers stay beautifully stacked.

• Chill Your Tools: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and whisk before whipping the cream. Cold tools help achieve stiff peaks more quickly and maintain the structure of your frosting.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Serving this lovely cake is as important as baking it! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.

• Shaved Chocolate: A light sprinkle of chocolate shavings can add a touch of elegance and complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake, providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

• Herbed Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cake while adding a burst of freshness.

• Fruit Salad: A bowl of assorted fresh fruits complements your dessert theme while offering additional textures and flavors.

These serving suggestions will elevate your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting into an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making your celebrations even more enjoyable. Here’s how you can store and preserve this delightful dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
• If stored properly, the cake will last for up to 3 days.
• Keep any extra whipped cream frosting in a separate container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze the layers separately before frosting them.

Reheating

• Allow frozen cake layers to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• If you want to serve the cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Always add fresh whipped cream right before serving for optimal texture.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help.

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

Yes! Frozen strawberries can work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in your cake.

How do I achieve fluffy whipped cream frosting for my Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake?

Start with very cold heavy whipping cream and beat it on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

Can I make this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, and follow the recipe as directed.

What type of milk is best for this recipe?

Whole milk or 2% milk is recommended as they provide a richer flavor and moisture. However, any dairy or non-dairy milk can be used if preferred.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to celebrate special moments or simply treat yourself on a sunny day. The combination of fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and light whipped cream makes it truly irresistible. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or variations; I’d love to hear how yours turned out!