Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is one of my all-time favorites. It’s light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon picnic or a cozy family gathering, this cake brings smiles all around. Plus, who can resist that dreamy whipped cream frosting?

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a baking pro to impress your loved ones with this delightful treat. It’s perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this cake again and again.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves strawberries and cream! This dessert appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with its beautiful layered presentation. It’s an eye-catching centerpiece!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cake in advance and assemble it just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Deliciously Refreshing: The combination of fluffy cake and juicy strawberries makes this dessert incredibly refreshing, especially on warm days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome foods that you probably already have in your kitchen.

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)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Citrus Zest: Brighten up the flavor by adding some lemon or orange zest into the batter.
• Use Different Berries: Swap out strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry delight!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten.
• Try Flavored Whipped Cream: Mix in some cocoa powder or instant coffee to the whipped cream for an exciting twist.

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by macerating your fresh strawberries. Slice them up and mix them with strawberry jam in a bowl. Let them sit while you prepare the cake batter; this step allows their natural juices to release, creating a sweet syrup that will soak into your cake layers.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans so that your cakes slide out easily when they’re done baking. This ensures no delicious crumbs are left behind!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial—it helps evenly distribute the baking powder throughout your flour so that your cake rises perfectly!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar and oil until well blended. Add eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth; it should look creamy and inviting!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture. We want it light and fluffy!

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake!

Step 7: Cool Your Cakes

Once baked, let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Cooling is essential—it helps maintain moisture while preventing sogginess when you layer everything together.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined. Then slowly pour in very cold heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat until soft peaks form—this creates that luscious whipped texture we adore!

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer of cake on your serving platter. Top it generously with macerated strawberries followed by a layer of whipped cream frosting. Place the second layer on top and repeat! Finish off by covering the entire cake with more whipped cream frosting.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

For an extra touch of charm, decorate with additional whole strawberries on top of your finished creation. Cut into slices and serve immediately—enjoy every bite of this delightful Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting!

Pro Tips for Making Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Creating the perfect strawberry shortcake cake is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs, milk, and sour cream to room temperature helps them blend more easily into the batter, creating a smoother texture and ensuring even baking.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined preserves the cake’s lightness. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so be gentle!

• Let the strawberries macerate: Allowing your sliced strawberries to sit with sugar for at least 30 minutes intensifies their sweetness and creates a delightful syrup that adds moisture to your cake layers.

• Chill your mixing bowl and beaters: For the best whipped cream frosting, chill your bowl and beaters in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before whipping. This helps achieve stiff peaks more quickly and ensures a light, airy frosting.

• Assemble just before serving: To keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess, assemble your cake layers with whipped cream and strawberries right before serving. This way, you’ll have that perfect texture every time!

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Presenting your moist strawberry shortcake cake can be as delightful as eating it! Here’s how you can elevate its presentation for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

• Chocolate shavings: Adding dark or white chocolate shavings on top offers an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside your cake brings an extra layer of indulgence that complements the strawberries beautifully.

• Berry salad: A mix of fresh berries tossed with a little honey or lemon juice adds brightness and freshness, making it a perfect side that balances the richness of the cake.

• Lemon sorbet: This refreshing frozen treat cleanses the palate between bites of the rich cake and whipped cream, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather gatherings.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every delectable bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting is not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily prepare elements of this cake in advance to save time on the day of your celebration, ensuring a stress-free baking experience.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover strawberries or whipped cream, keep them in separate containers to maintain their freshness.
• For best taste and texture, consume the cake within a couple of days.

Freezing

• You can freeze the layers of the cake before frosting. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Frozen cake layers can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before use.
• Whipped cream frosting should not be frozen as it may change texture. It’s best made fresh.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, you can gently heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid overheating, as this can make the cake dry—just enough to take off the chill!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dessert.

Can I use frozen strawberries for Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; however, they may release more moisture when thawed. To prevent sogginess, drain any excess liquid before using them.

How do I achieve the best results with the whipped cream frosting for my Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

Ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping. Use a chilled bowl and beaters to create a light and airy frosting that holds its shape beautifully.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How long does it take to make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting?

The total time is around 50 minutes, including preparation and baking time. It’s quick enough for a weekday treat or special occasion!

Final Thoughts

This moist strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream frosting is truly a labor of love that’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Its vibrant flavors and charming presentation make it perfect for any gathering or simply as a sweet treat at home. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits or toppings; there’s always room for creativity in baking. Happy baking!