Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its fluffy vanilla cake and fresh strawberries. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or family gatherings, this cake is not only beautiful but also easy to make. The lightness of the whipped cream frosting complements the juicy strawberries, making every bite refreshing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Fruity Freshness: The use of fresh strawberries adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to your dessert.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for any celebration, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings, it impresses guests of all ages.
• Layered Elegance: The cake’s layered presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece that will wow your friends and family.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or extracts to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans (2)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that your batter is well combined and achieves the right texture for a fluffy cake.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Provides the perfect size for layering your moist strawberry shortcake cake evenly.
• Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients gently without deflating the batter, crucial for maintaining fluffiness.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting, you will 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)

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)

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure it’s fully heated before placing your cakes inside.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray or butter. You may also line them with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Vegetable oil
3. Eggs
4. Egg whites
5. Vanilla extract
6. Almond extract
7. Sour cream
8. Milk

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined.

Step 6: Divide Batter Between Pans

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Smooth out the tops with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Place both pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Strawberries

While cakes are cooling, mix sliced strawberries with strawberry jam in a bowl. Allow them to macerate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 10: Make Whipped Cream Frosting

In a large bowl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
3. Add vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture gently until combined.

Step 11: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate:
1. Spread half of the macerated strawberries over it.
2. Add a layer of whipped cream frosting on top.
3. Place the second layer on top and repeat with remaining strawberries and frosting.
4. Garnish with additional whole strawberries if desired.

Enjoy every slice of this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting!

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Serving this moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting can elevate any gathering. Whether it’s a family celebration or a picnic with friends, the presentation and taste will impress everyone.

Individual Slices

• Serve each guest a slice topped with extra whipped cream and a few fresh strawberries for a simple yet elegant touch.

Layered Presentation

• Cut the cake into layers and display it on a tiered cake stand. This way, everyone can enjoy the beautiful layers of cake and strawberries.

Mini Shortcakes

• For a fun twist, create mini shortcakes by using smaller rounds of cake. Top each with strawberries and whipped cream for individual servings.

Dessert Parfaits

• Layer pieces of cake, macerated strawberries, and whipped cream in clear cups for a delightful dessert parfait that showcases all the textures.

Picnic Style

• Pack slices in individual containers for an easy-to-carry dessert that’s perfect for outdoor events or gatherings.

How to Perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

To achieve the best results when making this moist strawberry shortcake cake, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Chill Your Whipping Cream: For the best whipped cream frosting, use very cold heavy whipping cream. This will help achieve stiff peaks more easily.
• Macérate Strawberries Ahead of Time: Letting your sliced strawberries sit with sugar before assembly enhances their flavor and creates a delicious syrup.
• Add Flavor Variations: Consider adding lemon zest or mint leaves to your whipped cream for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

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

Pairing side dishes with your moist strawberry shortcake cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness to your dessert table and complements the sweetness of the cake.
2. Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade balances the sweetness of the shortcake and is perfect for warm days.
3. Iced Tea: Serve sweetened or unsweetened iced tea as a light beverage that pairs well without overpowering flavors.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken skewers provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
5. Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad dressed lightly offers a refreshing side that balances out richer desserts like this shortcake.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add sophistication to your spread and provide savory bites alongside sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting, it’s easy to make small errors that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Ingredient Measurement: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the texture and flavor. Always measure flour by spooning it into a cup and leveling off for accuracy.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Not allowing eggs, milk, and sour cream to reach room temperature can lead to a dense cake. Take these ingredients out ahead of time for best results.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too long can create a tough cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Using Warm Strawberries: Adding warm strawberries can destabilize the whipped cream frosting. Ensure your strawberries are at room temperature or chilled before mixing them in.
• Not Cooling the Cake Completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting so special?

This dessert combines airy layers of vanilla cake with fresh strawberries and rich whipped cream, creating a delightful summer treat that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them properly before using to prevent excess moisture in your cake.

How do I customize my Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

You can add different fruits like blueberries or raspberries or experiment with flavored extracts such as coconut or lemon for a twist on this classic dessert.

How long does it take to prepare this cake?

The total time required is approximately 50 minutes, which includes preparation and baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust it by adding different fruits or flavors according to your preference. It’s perfect for celebrations or just as a delightful treat during warmer months. Try it out; you won’t be disappointed!