Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings together fluffy vanilla cake, juicy strawberries, and light whipped cream. Perfect for any warm-weather celebration, this treat stands out with its elegant layered presentation and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or enjoying a family gathering, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this cake without stress.
• Deliciously Refreshing: The combination of strawberries and whipped cream creates a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or any summer gathering, it fits right in at any event.
• Beautiful Presentation: Layering the cake with strawberries and cream makes it visually stunning on any table.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite fruit or extract to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and help you create the perfect cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring your batter is well combined and fluffy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for organizing your ingredients and separating mixtures easily during the baking process.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure no ingredient is left behind.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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)
• 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)

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your cake.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with vegetable oil or non-stick spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
* 2½ cups all-purpose flour
* 3 teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt

This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, blend:
* 1¾ cups granulated sugar
* ½ cup vegetable oil
* 2 large eggs
* 2 large egg whites
* 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
* ½ teaspoon almond extract
* ⅔ cup sour cream
* ¾ cup milk

Beat until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Use an electric mixer on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Prepare Strawberries

In a separate bowl, toss:
* 3 cups sliced strawberries with
* 2 tablespoons strawberry jam

Let them sit for about 10 minutes. The sugar will draw out their juices, making them juicy and flavorful.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide batter equally between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Once baked, remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 9: Make Whipped Cream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
* 8 ounces softened cream cheese
* 1 cup powdered sugar
Add:
* ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract

Gradually add in:
* 2¼ cups very cold heavy whipping cream

Whip until stiff peaks form for a fluffy frosting.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Place one layer of cooled cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the macerated strawberries over it followed by one-third of whipped cream frosting. Top with second layer of cake. Repeat layering with remaining strawberries and frosting on top. Garnish with whole strawberries if desired.

Now you have created a stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting that’s ready to impress! Enjoy every slice of this delightful dessert!

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Serving your moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting can elevate any gathering. This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Individual Slices

• Serve slices on dessert plates for a classic look, allowing guests to appreciate the beautiful layers of cake and strawberries.

Parfait Style

• Layer pieces of the cake with whipped cream and strawberries in clear cups or jars. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy.

With Fresh Mint

• Garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh mint. The mint adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side. The cold ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully.

Drizzled with Strawberry Sauce

• Top individual servings with homemade strawberry sauce made from pureed strawberries and a bit of sugar for extra sweetness.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange slices on a large platter with additional whole strawberries around them. This creates an inviting display for celebrations.

How to Perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Achieving the perfect moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting requires some simple techniques. Here are tips to ensure your cake is as delightful as possible:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let eggs, milk, and sour cream sit out before mixing. This promotes better blending and texture.

• Don’t overmix: Mix your batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Use fresh strawberries: Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for maceration. Their flavor will shine through in both the filling and garnish.

• Chill your mixing bowl: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping heavy cream. It helps achieve maximum volume.

• Layer carefully: When assembling, allow the layers to cool completely before stacking them to avoid melting the frosting or ruining the structure.

• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain moisture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette can balance out the sweetness of the cake.

2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs provide a savory contrast to the sweet dessert.

3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley can complement the flavors of strawberries while adding variety to your meal.

4. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed in olive oil offer a colorful and healthy side dish.

5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses paired with crackers adds an elegant touch that contrasts nicely with dessert.

6. Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies served with hummus or dip provide a healthy crunch before indulging in dessert.

7. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side option.

8. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon brings brightness that pairs well after enjoying rich cake slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or milk can lead to an uneven batter. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined to maintain that fluffy texture.
• Skipping the maceration step: Not allowing the strawberries to sit with sugar can lead to a lack of flavor. Take the time to macerate for juicy, flavorful fruit.
• Inadequate frosting preparation: If the frosting isn’t whipped enough, it won’t hold its shape. Ensure you whip the cream to stiff peaks for perfect frosting consistency.
• Not leveling the cake layers: Uneven layers can ruin the cake’s appearance. Use a serrated knife to level each layer before stacking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separate if possible to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 15-second intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet on low heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries yield better flavor and texture. Ensure they are thawed and drained before use.

How do I make my whipped cream frosting stiffer?

To achieve a stiffer consistency, add cornstarch or powdered sugar while whipping your cream. This helps stabilize it.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total preparation time is approximately 50 minutes, including baking and cooling time.

Can I customize the flavor of this cake?

Absolutely! You can add citrus zest or different extracts like orange or lemon for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Final Thoughts

This moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting is not only delightful but also versatile. Customize it with different fruits or flavors based on your preference. Try this recipe for your next celebration and enjoy its refreshing taste!