Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cake
What is Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
If you're searching for a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer, look no further than strawberry shortcake cake. This delicious treat features moist vanilla cake layers infused with the sweet essence of fresh strawberries and light whipped cream frosting. It beautifully blends simplicity and elegance, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion—from brunch with friends to festive family gatherings.
Traditionally, strawberry shortcake has been a beloved dish, often served alongside a cup of tea or during picnics. The cake variant elevates this classic treat by introducing layers for a beautiful presentation and a variety of textures. Imagine biting into a slice where the soft cake meets the creaminess of frosting paired with juicy strawberries; it’s a sensational experience!
For more inspiration on creating the perfect dessert spread, consider checking out sources like Bon Appétit or Food Network. These platforms offer heaps of additional ideas that can spice up your culinary adventures. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned chef, crafting your very own strawberry shortcake cake will surely impress your guests and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delightful strawberry shortcake cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this classic dessert:
For the Vanilla Cake
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake.
- 3 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness for that perfect balance.
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist.
- 2 large eggs and 2 egg whites: Provide structure and richness.
- 2½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses lovely flavor.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract: A secret ingredient for depth (don’t skip it!).
- ⅔ cup sour cream: Ensures a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup milk: Use whole or 2% for the best texture.
For the Filling and Frosting
- 3 cups strawberries: Feel free to use a mix of sliced and diced for texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: Creates a luscious, creamy frosting.
- 2¼ cups heavy whipping cream: The key to a stable, fluffy frosting.
Got everything you need? Time to start baking and layering those delightful flavors! For more tips on selecting the best strawberries, check out this resource for great advice.
Preparing Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delightful strawberry shortcake cake combines the bliss of fluffy vanilla layers with the refreshing taste of strawberries and creamy frosting. Let's dive into this easy step-by-step process, ensuring your cake turns out just as luscious as you envision!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start baking, it's crucial to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cake: Flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla (plus almond extract for that extra flavor kick).
- Filling: Sliced strawberries and strawberry jam.
- Frosting: Cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and very cold heavy whipping cream.
Making a trip to your local market? Look for the freshest strawberries; they’ll elevate your cake significantly! Check out this guide on selecting ripe strawberries from Fine Cooking.
Prepare the Cake Batter
Once your ingredients are gathered, it's time to make the batter. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the sugar, oil, eggs, and extracts until well combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and sour cream, ensuring not to overmix. Pro tip: Scraping the bowl helps incorporate everything smoothly, making for a uniform batter!
Bake the Cake Layers
Now, evenly distribute the batter between three greased and parchment-lined 8-inch cake pans. This cake’s thickness allows for delicious filling between the layers. Bake for about 18-22 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely be mouth-watering!
Prepare the Strawberry Filling
While the cake layers cool, combine sliced strawberries with strawberry jam. This mixture will add both sweetness and a beautiful texture to your cake. Allowing the strawberries to macerate for a short time will enhance their flavor, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy frosting.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and some vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the very cold heavy cream while mixing to get that light and fluffy texture. Stop when you see stiff peaks form — this ensures your frosting holds up beautifully when spreading on the cake.
Assemble the Cake
Time to create your masterpiece! Start with one layer of cake on your serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting, top with the strawberry filling, and repeat with the second layer. Finish with the third cake layer, covering the top and sides with the remaining frosting. For an extra touch, garnish with whole strawberries around the edges.
Voilà! You’ve just crafted an exquisite strawberry shortcake cake. Can't wait to dig in? Share the joy with friends and family; this cake is perfect for any occasion. For more tips on baking and delicious dessert ideas, check out Serious Eats. Enjoy your baking journey!
Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake Cake
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative to the classic strawberry shortcake cake, you're in luck! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to maintain a moist texture without compromising flavor. You can also enhance the cake's richness by incorporating almond flour. Always remember to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they fit within your gluten-free diet. This version pairs perfectly with the same creamy filling and fresh strawberries you know and love.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Cake
For a decadent twist, try a chocolate strawberry shortcake cake. Simply replace half of the all-purpose flour in the recipe with unsweetened cocoa powder. This chocolaty layer adds depth and richness, perfectly complementing the freshness of the strawberries. Choose dark chocolate or a rich cocoa for a more intense flavor. As you assemble the cake, drizzle some chocolate ganache on top for an extra indulgence. This is a phenomenal way to please both chocolate lovers and traditionalists alike!
Curious about other flavor combinations? Explore more in our chocolate desserts section!
Baking Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Baking a strawberry shortcake cake is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some friendly tips to ensure your cake shines:
-
Layering is Key: Use three 8-inch pans for thinner layers, which makes assembly easier with the whipped cream and strawberries. If you only have two pans, don’t worry, just increase the baking time slightly.
-
Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. A quick trick? Soak the eggs in warm water for five minutes!
-
Stabilize Your Frosting: For a creamier whipped cream, consider adding cream cheese. It helps maintain stability while enhancing flavor. If you prefer a lighter, less tangy taste, mascarpone cheese works wonders, too.
-
Timing is Everything: This cake is best served fresh, so assemble it shortly before you’re ready to enjoy. If making ahead, prep until just before assembly for the best texture.
For more great baking tips and tricks, visit The Kitchn to enhance your culinary skills!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Elevate your strawberry shortcake cake experience with delightful serving suggestions that impress and satisfy! Here are a few ideas:
-
Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a medley of fresh berries like blueberries and raspberries for a colorful and flavorful boost.
-
Drizzle with Berry Sauce: A homemade berry sauce adds an extra layer of lusciousness. Simply blend some strawberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
-
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream or even a tangy strawberry sorbet enhances the creamy texture and coldness, making each bite blissful.
-
Dress it Up: Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers for a visually stunning appeal that’s perfect for celebrations.
-
Coffee Companion: Complement your cake with a rich cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea, striking a perfect balance between sweetness and bitterness.
These suggestions not only enhance the strawberry shortcake cake but also offer flavors that your guests will love. Looking for more fruity desserts? Check out this fruit tart recipe for another delicious option!
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a stunning strawberry shortcake cake can be simple with these helpful tips:
-
Choose Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Consider visiting local farmers' markets to find the freshest options.
-
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Be gentle when mixing ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
-
Chilled Tools Matter: For fluffy whipped cream frosting, use cold mixing bowls and beaters. This ensures a stable whip, making assembly easier.
-
Assembly Technique: Work in layers, building flavor and stability. Alternating cake and filling creates a beautifully presented cake.
For more in-depth tips, check out Celebrating Sweets for additional wisdom!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delicious strawberry shortcake cake is a joyful process! Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need to bring this delightful dessert to life:
Preparation Time
You'll spend about 30 minutes prepping the ingredients and assembling the cake layers—so get your favorite music ready for a fun baking session!
Baking Time
The cake layers will bake in just 20 minutes. While you wait, use that time to clean up or get your toppings ready!
Total Time
In only 50 minutes, you’ll have a stunning and delicious strawberry shortcake cake that serves up to 12. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat just for you!
For tips on sourcing fresh strawberries, check out this guide!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
When indulging in a slice of strawberry shortcake cake, it's helpful to know the nutritional breakdown. Here’s a quick overview:
Calories
With approximately 585 calories per slice, this cake is a delightful treat that provides a satisfying dessert experience.
Sugar Content
You'll find about 37 grams of sugar in each serving, contributing to that sweet, rich flavor we love in strawberry shortcake cakes.
Protein
Each slice contains around 7 grams of protein, making it a balanced option when you're craving something sweet.
For more detailed nutritional insights, consider checking resources like USDA Dietary Guidelines. Enjoy your baking adventure!
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead. Just bake and cool them, then wrap them tightly in wax paper and plastic wrap before storing them in the fridge. Make sure to whip up the frosting the day of serving to keep it fresh. If you want to learn more about advance baking, check out sites like Serious Eats.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your strawberry shortcake cake fresh, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy them within a few days for the best flavor and texture. If you find the frosting getting too soft, it's best to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I substitute the strawberries for other fruit?
Definitely! While strawberries are a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just keep in mind that different fruits will alter the cake’s flavor profile, so adjust the sweetness if needed. Get creative and find your favorite combinations!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Cake
In summary, the strawberry shortcake cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that celebrates summer. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert at home, this cake is not only visually appealing but also easy to make. Try it for yourself, and watch it disappear! For more delicious ideas, check out our guide on baking tips and seasonal fruit recipes.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Equipment
- stand mixer
- 8-inch cake pans
- Mixing Bowls
- whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
Cake
- 2.5 cups all purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 large egg whites room temperature
- 2.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract optional, but highly recommended
- 0.67 cup sour cream
- 0.75 cup milk preferably whole or 2%, room temperature
Filling
- 3 cups sliced or diced fresh strawberries divided
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
- additional whole strawberries for garnish, optional
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to cool room temp
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 0.75 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2.25 cups heavy whipping cream really cold, straight from the fridge
Instructions
Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set aside.
- Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (preferred) or a hand mixer, beat sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts until combined.
- Add the sour cream and beat until combined. Add half of the flour mixture, beating until just combined.
- While still beating, slowly add milk, then the remaining flour mixture. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Be careful not to overmix it.
- Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and grease the pans. Evenly divide the batter between the three pans.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Place the pans on a rack to cool completely.
Filling
- Combine the strawberries and jam and set aside.
Frosting
- Place the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
- While the mixer is still whipping, slowly pour the heavy cream down the side of the bowl. Stop and scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl periodically.
- Increase the speed to high and continue whipping until the cream can hold a stiff peak.
Assembly
- Place one layer of cake on a platter. Top with one-third of the frosting and about 1¼ cups of strawberries.
- Add another layer of cake on top and repeat. For the top layer, top with remaining whipped cream frosting, then place the remaining strawberries in the center.
- Decorate the outside with whole strawberries, if desired.
Leave a Reply