What makes the perfect spring dessert? This strawberry shortcake cake is a homemade masterpiece, made easy with fresh strawberries and whipped cream on top, featuring a moist cake made with sweet strawberry puree – Save this idea for your next family gathering

strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top

Introduction

Imagine a warm summer evening, surrounded by loved ones, and indulging in a dessert that embodies the sweetness of the season. The strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top is a classic dessert that never fails to impress. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this cake is sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults. So, let’s dive into the world of strawberry shortcake and explore what makes it so special.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and moist cake creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, the ingredients are easily accessible in most supermarkets, making it a convenient option for last-minute dessert needs.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, the strawberry shortcake cake is surprisingly easy to prepare. The cake can be baked ahead of time, and the whipped cream and fresh strawberries can be prepared just before serving, making it a stress-free dessert option.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layering of the cake, whipped cream, and strawberries creates a stunning visual effect that is sure to impress your guests. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks like it was made by a professional pastry chef.

Key Ingredients

The strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top requires just a few key ingredients. For the cake, you’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. For the whipped cream, you’ll need heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. And for the topping, you’ll need fresh strawberries, sliced strawberries, and a sprinkle of granulated sugar. Practical substitutions include using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or using almond milk instead of regular milk. You can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not in season.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the cake batter by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
2. Step 2: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 8-inch round cake pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
3. Step 3: Prepare the whipped cream by beating the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Slice the cooled cake in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Place the bottom half of the cake on a serving plate and top with a layer of whipped cream. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream.
4. Step 4: Place the top half of the cake on top of the strawberries and dust with granulated sugar. Top with additional whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• To ensure that your cake is moist and fluffy, don’t overmix the batter. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined.
• Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh strawberries and real vanilla extract, to get the best flavor out of your dessert.
• Don’t overwhip the cream, as it can become too stiff and separate. Stop beating as soon as stiff peaks form.
• Consider using a cake stand or pedestal to display your strawberry shortcake cake. It will add a touch of elegance to your dessert presentation.

Heat Control

When baking the cake, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing to ensure that it’s cooked to perfection. The ideal temperature for baking the cake is 375°F (190°C), and the cooking time is 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If not, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes and check again.

Crunch Factor

The strawberry shortcake cake should be tender and moist, with a delicate crumb. To achieve this texture, make sure to not overmix the batter, and don’t overbake the cake. The whipped cream and fresh strawberries will add a creamy texture and a burst of freshness to the dessert. If you want to add some crunch to your dessert, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the whipped cream.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients accurately. This will ensure that your cake turns out light and fluffy.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as it can lead to a dense and tough cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined.
• Use a high-quality vanilla extract to give your cake a deep and rich flavor.
• Consider making the cake and whipped cream ahead of time and assembling the dessert just before serving. This will save you time and reduce stress.

Storage Tips

• Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store the whipped cream in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick whip before using to restore its texture.
• Store the fresh strawberries in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wash and slice them just before using.
• Consider freezing the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.

Gift Packaging Ideas

The strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top is a beautiful and delicious gift for any occasion. Consider packaging it in a decorative cake box or a gift basket filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. You can also add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a small bouquet of fresh flowers. If you want to make it a more substantial gift, consider pairing it with a bottle of champagne or a gourmet food item, such as artisanal cheese or charcuterie.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to give your cake a unique flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to give your cake a warm and spicy flavor.
• Use different types of fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create a unique flavor combination.
• Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce to the cake for a decadent and rich flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake is too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Try reducing the mixing time and see if that improves the texture.
• If your whipped cream is too stiff, it may be due to overwhipping. Try stopping the whipping process earlier and see if that improves the texture.
• If your strawberries are too tart, it may be due to using unripe or low-quality strawberries. Try using fresh and ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• If your cake is too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Try reducing the baking time and see if that improves the texture.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? No, the cake contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative to make it gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly.

Conclusion

The strawberry shortcake cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a great option for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal effort. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer in every bite! Don’t forget to share your creations with us and tag us in your social media posts. We’d love to see how you make this recipe your own and what variations you come up with. Happy baking!