If you’ve ever wondered how to take strawberries from snack-time to show-stopper, the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is your answer. Picture this: soft, fluffy vanilla cake layers stacked with clouds of whipped cream and juicy, sweet strawberries peeking through every slice. It’s like your favorite childhood dessert got a grown-up upgrade—but without losing that cozy, homemade charm.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a soft, fluffy vanilla cake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or any sweet occasion. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare 9-inch cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) in a bowl.
- Beat butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time and vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the batter.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Slice strawberries and layer cake with whipped cream and strawberries.
- Decorate with remaining strawberries and optional mint leaves.
Notes
- Use chilled whipped cream and fully cooled cake layers to prevent melting.
- Enjoy within 2–3 days for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8–10
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Fresh Strawberries and Toppings
Fresh strawberries are the star of the show. Choose ripe, fragrant berries for maximum sweetness and juiciness. You’ll also need heavy whipping cream and a little powdered sugar to make homemade whipped cream that’s light, airy, and slightly sweet. Some optional touches include a few mint leaves for garnish or a light dusting of powdered sugar for elegance. The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy layers is what makes this cake irresistible.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted for fluffiness |
| Baking powder | 2 ½ tsp | Helps cake rise |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | For cake batter |
| Eggs | 4 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | Adds aroma |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Keeps cake moist |
| Fresh strawberries | 4 cups | Sliced for layers and topping |
| Heavy whipping cream | 2 cups | For homemade whipped cream |
| Powdered sugar | ¼ cup | For sweetening whipped cream |
| Optional garnish | Mint leaves | For serving |
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake that’s soft, flavorful, and visually stunning.
Step-by-Step Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe
Preparing the Cake Layers
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line them with parchment paper to ensure your layers come out perfectly smooth. In a large bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Step 2: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important to prevent your whipped cream from melting when assembling the cake.
Making the Whipped Cream and Filling
Step 3: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat 2 cups of heavy whipping cream with ¼ cup of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This light and airy whipped cream will be the perfect complement to your fluffy cake layers. Slice 4 cups of fresh strawberries, reserving a few whole berries for decorating the top of the cake.
Assembling the Layer Cake
Once the cake layers are fully cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream and top with sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with whipped cream and strawberries. Finish with a decorative topping of whole strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Cake Storage and Freshness Tips
To keep your cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered loosely with a cake dome or plastic wrap. Because the cake has whipped cream, it’s best enjoyed within 2–3 days. If you need to prep ahead, bake the cake layers in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then refrigerate or freeze. You can assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and taste. Avoid storing the cake at room temperature for too long, as the whipped cream can soften and lose its structure.
Bonus Tricks for a Smooth Finish
For an elegant, even layer cake, level your cake layers using a serrated knife or cake leveler. This prevents leaning or uneven layers when stacking. When spreading whipped cream, use a spatula dipped in warm water for smoother edges. These small touches make your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake look professional while keeping it homemade and inviting.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Elegant Serving Ideas for Family or Guests
The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. For a simple, cozy presentation, serve slices on white or pastel plates and top each slice with a few extra fresh strawberries and a small dollop of whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch without complicating things. Pair your cake with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot tea, or a refreshing fruit spritzer for a classic combination. For special occasions, add edible flowers or mint leaves as a garnish to make your dessert feel celebratory.
Fun Variations to Try at Home
While the classic version is hard to beat, there are easy ways to put your own twist on this beloved dessert. Try adding a thin layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for extra sweetness. For chocolate lovers, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips into the whipped cream layers. You can also experiment with different fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a seasonal variation. Mini individual cakes or cupcakes are perfect if you want a fun, portable version for parties or picnics. Each variation keeps the comforting essence of the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake while giving you room to get creative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best freshness and texture.
How do I keep the whipped cream from melting?
Use chilled heavy cream and a chilled mixing bowl. Beat until soft peaks form and keep the whipped cream in the fridge until assembly. Spread it on cooled cake layers to maintain its shape.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh strawberries are best for taste and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy cake.
How long will the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake stay fresh?
Once assembled, store the cake in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I make a smaller or larger version of this cake?
Absolutely! Adjust baking pans and ingredients proportionally. Mini cakes or cupcakes work well for parties, while a larger cake can serve a crowd.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a perfect blend of fluffy cake, sweet whipped cream, and juicy strawberries that makes every occasion special. It’s approachable for beginners, yet elegant enough to impress family and guests. With simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and a few helpful tips, you can create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning. Whether you stick to the classic version or try fun variations, this cake brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of celebration to your table. Enjoy every slice and share the joy with loved ones!