Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is a crowd-pleaser, combining the lightness of sponge cake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It's a perfect dessert for summer picnics or birthday parties!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy cake complemented by fresh strawberries
- Rich creaminess from whipped topping for a luscious bite
- Easily serves a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is an ideal dessert for a variety of celebrations, from birthday parties to summer barbecues. Its light and fluffy texture pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy strawberries, making it a crowd-pleaser. The sheet cake format allows for easy serving and sharing, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.
This cake is not only visually appealing with its vibrant strawberry topping, but it also brings together classic flavors in a fun new way. The combination of whipped cream and fresh strawberries creates a luscious topping that elevates the simple cake base to something extraordinary. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake
To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake turns out perfectly, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor and sweetness. Additionally, when whipping the cream, keep your mixing bowl and beaters chilled. This helps the cream whip up faster and achieve the desired texture more easily.
Don't hesitate to get creative with the toppings! While strawberries are the classic choice, you can also experiment with other berries or even a mix of fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries can add a delightful burst of flavor and color, making your cake even more appealing.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is assembled, it's best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you're preparing it in advance, consider making the cake and whipped topping separately, then assembling it just before serving to maintain its light texture.
For an added touch, consider serving each slice with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds an indulgent twist that complements the fruity flavors beautifully. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful presentation and the extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious cake:
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to prepare these ingredients ahead of time for a smooth baking experience.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18 inch baking sheet.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, cream together the butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add in the milk.
Combine Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the Topping
While the cake is cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped cream on top and decorate with sliced strawberries.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake!
Let your cake chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving for the best flavor.
Common Questions about Strawberry Shortcake
One common question is whether you can make this cake ahead of time. Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it tightly wrapped. Just be sure to whip the cream and add the strawberries closer to serving time to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Another question often asked is about substituting ingredients. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use a sugar substitute or low-fat whipped topping. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a layer of lemon curd between the cake and whipped cream for a zesty twist. This adds a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
Another variation is to incorporate additional flavors into the whipped cream. A splash of almond extract or a hint of citrus zest can enhance the overall taste and add an exciting depth to your cake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftover cake?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the baking powder is also gluten-free.
→ What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can use whipped topping or a dairy-free whipped alternative for a lighter option.
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Created by: Ethan
Recipe Type: Pastry & Sweets Corner
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18 inch baking sheet.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add in the milk.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the cake is cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped cream on top and decorate with sliced strawberries.
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g