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Easy Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake - featured image

Layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream come together in this stunning and delicious dessert, perfect for parties and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (600g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, to macerate strawberries)
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans or line them with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  6. Toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar (if using) and let them sit for 15 minutes. This helps release their natural juices.
  7. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
  8. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top, then arrange half of the strawberries over the cream. Add the second cake layer on top and repeat with whipped cream and strawberries.
  9. Garnish the cake with whole strawberries or a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving to help the layers set nicely.

Notes

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise. Chill the cake before serving for easier slicing and better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake, Layer Cake, Party Dessert, Summer Cake, Easy Baking