Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is the ultimate dessert for warm-weather gatherings. With its light and fluffy vanilla cake layered with juicy macerated strawberries and topped with airy whipped cream, it’s a treat that delights the senses. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, this cake captures the essence of a classic shortcake while adding a modern twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla cake and fresh strawberries creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful cake.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a birthday party, this cake suits any event perfectly.
• Beautiful Presentation: The layered look not only tastes great but also makes for an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust sweetness or add different fruits based on your preference!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients without deflating the batter.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful dessert, 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)
• 3 cups fresh strawberries (sliced or diced, divided)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
• Additional whole strawberries for garnish (optional)

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: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and oil until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by egg whites. Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract if using.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Alternate with sour cream and milk until everything is just combined.

Step 5: Prepare Strawberries

In a separate bowl, combine sliced strawberries with strawberry jam. Allow them to macerate for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Make Whipped Cream Frosting

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

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread some of the macerated strawberries over it followed by a layer of whipped cream frosting. Place the second layer on top and repeat. Finish with extra whipped cream on top and garnish with whole strawberries if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, and serving it right can elevate its appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice served on a plate showcases the beautiful layers of cake, strawberries, and whipped cream.

Individual Portions

• Use small dessert cups to create individual servings. Layer cake and strawberries for a charming presentation.

With Fresh Mint

• Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness that complements the strawberries.

Drizzled Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent twist that pairs well with the strawberries.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Serve a slice alongside vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra creamy texture and flavor contrast.

With a Berry Compote

• Spoon warm berry compote over the top to enhance the fruity flavors and add a bit of warmth to each bite.

How to Perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Achieving the perfect Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs, milk, and sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a fluffy one.
• Fresh Strawberries Are Key: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. They should be juicy and sweet to complement the cake perfectly.
• Chill Your Mixing Bowl: For whipped cream frosting, chill your mixing bowl before whipping. This helps achieve better volume and stability in your frosting.
• Level Your Cake Layers: After baking, ensure each cake layer is level by trimming off any domed tops. This allows for even stacking and presentation.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow your assembled cake to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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 enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness; consider using oranges, blueberries, or kiwi alongside strawberries.
2. Light Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a light yet satisfying side that complements the richness of the cake.
3. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of sweet cake.
4. Herbed Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat cheese paired with herbs offer savory notes that balance out dessert sweetness nicely.
5. Grilled Peaches: Slightly caramelized grilled peaches bring out natural sugars while adding depth to your meal’s flavor profile.
6. Crispy Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly enhances freshness without overpowering the main dessert attraction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and there are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making a Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure that eggs and milk are at room temperature before using them.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dense. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Skipping the maceration step: Macerating strawberries enhances their flavor. Always let them sit with sugar for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Not chilling the cream: Whipping cream works best when it’s very cold. Keep your heavy whipping cream in the fridge until you’re ready to whip it.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

• Wrap slices of cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing 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 to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm the cake gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This dessert combines fluffy vanilla layers with juicy strawberries and creamy frosting, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures perfect for any occasion.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your cake.

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

You can add different fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even incorporate lemon zest into the batter for added flavor.

How do I prevent my whipped cream from deflating?

Make sure your bowl and beaters are cold before whipping the cream, and avoid overwhipping it to maintain its airy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for celebrations or just as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or flavors!