The first warm days of summer always fill me with excitement for fresh strawberries, and this year, I decided to elevate my love for the classic shortcake. That’s how I found myself crafting a stunning layered strawberry shortcake cake with a light, fluffy vanilla sponge soaked in luscious strawberry syrup. The moment the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special.
This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer itself. Each slice reveals delicate layers of whipped cream, juicy strawberries, and that airy sponge, turning a simple gathering into an unforgettable occasion. Perfect for birthdays, barbecues, or just because, this crowd-pleaser is guaranteed to impress without the fuss.
Whether you opt for a two-layer or three-layer cake, you’ll find that the combination of flavors and textures creates an explosion of berry bliss with every bite. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring the spirit of summer to your table!
Why is Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake a Must-Try?
Light, Fluffy Texture: The vanilla sponge, soaked in strawberry syrup, provides an airy bite that will have your taste buds dancing.
Elevated Classic: This cake reimagines a beloved favorite, taking the traditional shortcake to new heights with layers of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for summer gatherings, it’s a showstopper that will impress friends and family alike.
Endless Variations: Feel free to mix and match; try different berries or flavor extracts to make it your own.
Effortlessly Elegant: With minimal fuss, you can create a dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes—ideal for any occasion!
Enjoy a slice of summer with each serving, and if you’re up for it, check out my tips on how to master the perfect strawberry simple syrup for even more flavor!
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake; for a lighter texture, substitute with cake flour.
- Baking powder – This leavening agent ensures the cake rises perfectly.
- Kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Large eggs (separated) – Egg whites contribute to a light, fluffy texture while yolks add richness.
- Lemon juice or white vinegar – Helps stabilize the egg whites for easier whipping.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in volume when whipped with eggs.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted butter or coconut oil can be used as substitutions.
- Warm water – Provides needed moisture for the batter.
- Vanilla paste or extract – Infuses the cake with delicious flavor; consider almond extract for a unique twist.
For the Strawberry Simple Syrup
- Sliced strawberries – The key flavor component that infuses syrup with berry goodness.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the syrup and helps draw out the juices from the strawberries.
- Water – Blends the flavors together seamlessly.
For the Whipped Frosting
- Heavy whipping cream – Base for the whipped frosting; ensure it’s cold for best results.
- Cream cheese – Stabilizes the whipped cream for a perfect texture; omit for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps maintain the whipped cream’s structure.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of your whipped frosting.
For Finishing Touches
- Cornstarch – Can thicken strawberry puree for decoration, if desired.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
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Prep Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is an important first step to ensure a flawless bake!
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Make Cake Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whip the egg whites with lemon juice until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar until fluffy, then mix in the oil, warm water, and vanilla. Gently fold in the flour mixture followed by the egg whites until smooth.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool before removing it from the pan.
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Create Strawberry Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine your sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Heat until dissolved, then allow to cool. This syrup will infuse your cake with sweet strawberry goodness!
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Prepare Whipped Cream: In a bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth. Gradually add cold heavy cream and whip until you reach stiff peaks. This rich frosting is key for layering!
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Assemble the Cake: Carefully cut your cooled cake into three layers. Layer each with strawberry syrup, a generous spread of whipped cream, and sliced strawberries. Repeat for each layer to build that beautiful tower!
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Final Frosting: Once assembled, use the remaining whipped cream to frost the top and sides of your cake. Decorate it with strawberry puree and extra strawberry slices for a show-stopping finish.
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Chill: Refrigerate your masterpiece for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and set before serving. This chilling time is essential for a perfectly sliced cake!
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert; your unique twists will make it even more special!
- Berry Blend: Swap fresh strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry sensation.
- Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped pistachios or almonds between layers for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate a bit of orange zest into the sponge cake batter for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens every bite.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips into your batter before baking for a hint of decadent chocolate in each slice.
- Spiced Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sponge for warmer notes that complement the strawberries beautifully.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy milk and coconut oil for a delicious plant-based option.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the cake layers for a sweet contrast that will have everyone swooning with delight.
- Creamy Alternatives: Substitute cream cheese frosting with a whipped coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free frosting option.
Whichever variation you choose, watch how it transforms the experience of this already magical cake!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
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Whip Wisely: Ensure egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks for an airy cake. Avoid over-whipping, which can lead to dryness.
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Folding Technique: Be gentle while folding in the egg whites; use a “J” motion to maintain volume without deflating the batter.
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Slicing Cake Layers: Chill your serrated knife before slicing the cake layers. This helps achieve cleaner cuts without tearing the sponge.
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Stabilizing Whipped Cream: To prevent your whipped frosting from wilting, add a small amount of unflavored gelatin after reaching soft peaks.
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Cool Cakes Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before assembly. This ensures the layers don’t become soggy when adding the strawberry syrup.
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Explore Variations: Feel free to experiment with different berries or flavor extracts to customize your strawberry shortcake layer cake to your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake creations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can make the sponge cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to keep it fresh. The strawberry simple syrup can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cake with whipped cream and strawberries, then chill for an additional 4-6 hours before garnishing and serving. This not only streamlines your preparation but ensures that your cake remains just as delicious and beautiful as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake?
Every slice of this vibrant cake deserves a thoughtful companion to enhance its luscious flavors and textures.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries, blueberries, and extra strawberries offers a fresh burst of flavor, making every bite sing of summer.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, coolness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fluffy cake, creating a delightful mouthfeel. It melts into the layers, adding richness with each spoonful.
- Lemonade: Pair your cake with a tall glass of refreshing homemade lemonade to balance the sweetness with its zesty brightness, perfect for warm days.
- Mint Tea: Chilled mint tea adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the berry flavors, keeping the palate clean and invigorated.
- Chocolate Ganache: For those who enjoy contrast, drizzling a rich chocolate ganache over a slice creates a decadent balance to the light sponge and strawberries.
- Meringue Cookies: Crisp meringue cookies add a delightful crunch, providing a contrast to the soft texture of the cake while enhancing the dessert experience.
Embrace these pairings to elevate an already stunning dessert, turning any occasion into a joyous celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 1 day if consuming quickly. Be sure to avoid moisture buildup.
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap exposed cake portions with plastic wrap or place inside an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cake (without frosting) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. You can also serve it chilled straight from the fridge, as the flavors meld beautifully!
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for firm berries with vibrant red color and a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may be overripe. If you’re feeling adventurous, a mix of berries can enhance flavor complexity!
How long can I store the leftover cake?
Very! You can keep your strawberry shortcake layer cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap any exposed portions in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and moist.
Can I freeze this cake? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze your strawberry shortcake layer cake, start by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat!
What should I do if my whipped cream isn’t thickening?
If your whipped cream isn’t thickening as expected, there are a few steps to troubleshoot. First, ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold; it whips up better that way. If it still doesn’t reach stiff peaks, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or a bit of unflavored gelatin (dissolved in warm water) for stabilization. Gently fold in the gelatin after you’ve started to see soft peaks form, and it should hold its shape nicely!
Are there any dietary considerations or alternatives for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about dairy, you can omit the cream cheese in the frosting for a lighter version. Alternatively, use a dairy-free whipped cream substitute. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and many have successfully swapped sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier touch!
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sponge cake a day or two in advance and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature. Just remember to layer it with the strawberry syrup and whipped cream closer to serving time to maintain its freshness and texture. The flavors meld beautifully after chilling for 4-6 hours, so it’s a win-win!
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake: A Summer Dream Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whip the egg whites with lemon juice until soft peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar until fluffy, then mix in the oil, warm water, and vanilla. Gently fold in the flour mixture followed by the egg whites until smooth.
- Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool before removing it from the pan.
- In a saucepan, combine your sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Heat until dissolved, then allow to cool.
- In a bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth. Gradually add cold heavy cream and whip until you reach stiff peaks.
- Carefully cut your cooled cake into three layers. Layer each with strawberry syrup, a generous spread of whipped cream, and sliced strawberries.
- Once assembled, use the remaining whipped cream to frost the top and sides of your cake.
- Refrigerate your masterpiece for 4-6 hours.
