Looking for a sweet and easy dessert recipe? You’re in the right place! This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is simple to make and full of fresh flavors. In just a few steps, you can create a moist cake topped with creamy whipped cream and juicy strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress friends and family. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet strawberries paired with the light, fluffy cake and rich whipped cream create a perfect balance of flavors that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This sheet cake is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or family gathering, this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is sure to impress your guests and brighten any celebration.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of fresh strawberries and mint leaves make this cake not only delicious but also a beautiful centerpiece on any dessert table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Toppings
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
To make a great Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, you need simple ingredients. First, gather the dry ingredients. These include flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Each plays a key role in making the cake rise and taste sweet.
Next, prepare the wet ingredients. The butter gives richness, while milk keeps the cake moist. Eggs help bind everything together. Finally, vanilla adds a lovely flavor.
Now for the toppings! Fresh strawberries are a must. They add sweetness and texture. The whipped cream, made from heavy cream and powdered sugar, is light and airy. Mint leaves give a fresh touch to the cake.
With these ingredients ready, you can create a delightful strawberry shortcake that everyone will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13x18 inch sheet pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
This mix should be lump-free.
3. Add ¾ cup softened unsalted butter to the dry mix. Use a mixer to beat on medium until it looks like coarse crumbs. Some butter pieces should stay small.
4. In another bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Mix until it’s smooth. Gradually add this to the dry mix. Stir on low until just combined. Don’t overmix; this keeps the cake soft.
Baking the Cake
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake
7. Once the cake is cool, slice it in half horizontally with a serrated knife.
8. Spread half of the whipped cream on the bottom half of the cake. Layer 2 cups of sliced strawberries on top.
9. Place the top half of the cake back on. Use the remaining whipped cream to cover the entire cake. Smooth it out for a nice finish.
10. Decorate the top with more sliced strawberries and fresh mint leaves. This brightens up the cake. Enjoy your creation!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure a Moist Cake
To make a moist cake, start with all your ingredients at room temperature. This helps them mix well. It also makes the batter smooth and light. You should also avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients blend together. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Decorating Tips
For a beautiful presentation, use fresh strawberries and mint leaves. You can slice strawberries and arrange them on top. Place a sprig of mint next to each slice for a pop of color. Choose decorative plates for serving. This adds charm to your dessert table. Cut the cake into squares to serve. Each slice looks lovely when garnished. Enjoy the bright colors and fresh flavors!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to maintain a light and airy texture in your cake.
- Chill the Whipped Cream: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Fresh Strawberries are Key: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness in your shortcake.
Variations
Flavored Whipped Cream Options
You can make your whipped cream even more special. Adding a few drops of extracts can change the taste. Try almond for a nutty twist or citrus for a fresh zing. You can also use flavored creamers. A splash of vanilla or hazelnut creamer can enhance the cream's flavor. This small change can make a big difference in your cake.
Alternative Fresh Fruits
While strawberries are classic, feel free to mix it up. Other berries work great, too. Raspberries and blueberries add a nice touch. You can also use stone fruits like peaches or cherries. These fruits bring different flavors and colors to your cake. They make each bite exciting and fresh.
Different Cake Bases
If you need a different option, you can change the cake base. Gluten-free flour works well for those with allergies. Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also try chocolate cake for a rich flavor. A light sponge cake is great for a fluffier texture. These changes let you create your perfect version of strawberry shortcake.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake fresh, store it in the fridge. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. This keeps the cake moist and prevents it from drying out. If you leave it uncovered, it may get hard and lose flavor.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this cake for later enjoyment. To freeze individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. For the whole cake, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps avoid freezer burn.
When you want to eat a slice, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. For best texture, don’t rush the thawing. Enjoy your cake when it is fully thawed!
FAQs
How do I make sure my cake rises properly?
To help your cake rise, follow these tips:
- Use fresh ingredients. Old baking powder or baking soda can cause flat cakes.
- Measure accurately. Use proper measuring cups for flour and sugar. Too much flour makes the cake dense.
- Preheat the oven. Always bake in a preheated oven at 350°F.
- Don’t open the oven door. This lets heat escape. Wait until halfway through baking to check.
By doing these steps, your cake will rise beautifully.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, they will change the cake's taste and texture. Frozen strawberries release more water when thawed. This can make the cake soggy. To avoid this, let them thaw and drain extra liquid. Fresh strawberries give a brighter flavor and a better look.
How long does the cake last in the fridge?
Your cake lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Look for signs of spoilage, like a change in smell or mold. If you see any, throw it away. Enjoy your cake while it's fresh for the best taste!
In this post, we covered how to make a delicious strawberry shortcake. First, I outlined the key ingredients, both dry and wet, along with tasty toppings. Then, I provided step-by-step instructions for preparing the batter, baking the cake, and assembling the final treat. Plus, I included tips for keeping your cake moist and ideas for decoration.
A good shortcake is all about balance. Use fresh ingredients and don't skip the tips. Enjoy baking, and share your results with others!
