Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the sweet melody of summer fruits, and this Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake hits all the right notes. Picture fluffy layers of buttery cake generously piled with juicy strawberries and topped with a cloud of whipped cream. This easy-to-make strawberry shortcake is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, combining simplicity with a dash of nostalgia that’s sure to delight both seasoned bakers and new culinary adventurers alike. Not only does it bring joy with every bite, but it’s also incredibly adaptable—feel free to swap in your favorite berries or sweeteners for a personal twist. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it a fantastic option for those busy summer days. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game with this refreshing delight? Why is Strawberry Shortcake So Irresistible? Heavenly Layers: The light, buttery cake is perfectly complemented by sweet, juicy strawberries and a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Quick and Easy: This straightforward recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or a sweet craving during the week. Versatile Treat: Feel free to customize! Switch strawberries for peaches or blueberries, or try a healthier sweetener like honey for a twist. Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this strawberry shortcake is sure to impress everyone at the table! Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside a refreshing beverage like Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade for an unforgettable summer experience. Strawberry Shortcake Ingredients • Get ready to gather the essential ingredients for your irresistible strawberry shortcake! For the Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring a light, fluffy texture. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake. Butter – Adds richness and moisture for a decadent cake. Milk – Keeps the batter moist and aids in texture; can substitute with a plant-based option for a dairy-free version. For the Strawberries Strawberries – Fresh and juicy; you can substitute with other berries to keep things interesting, like blueberries or raspberries. Sugar – Sweetens the strawberries and whipped cream; feel free to use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener. For the Whipped Cream Whipping Cream – Heavy whipping cream is recommended for ideal texture; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative. Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream; adjust according to your preference. Prepare these ingredients ahead of time, and get ready to create a strawberry shortcake that’s not just easy to make but absolutely unforgettable! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries Begin by washing and hulling 2 cups of fresh strawberries, then slice them into quarters. In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar, allowing them to sit for about 30 minutes. This step releases the strawberries’ natural juices, creating a syrupy mixture that enhances the flavor and sweetness of your strawberry shortcake. Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream While the strawberries macerate, pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium speed, gradually adding 2 tablespoons of sugar. Continue mixing until soft peaks form, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once ready, chill the whipped cream in the refrigerator until it’s time to assemble your delicious strawberry shortcake. Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 3/4 cup of milk, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want your cake to be light and fluffy for the perfect strawberry shortcake. Step 4: Bake the Cake Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Step 5: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers. On the bottom layer, spread a generous amount of the macerated strawberries, allowing some of the syrup to soak into the cake. Next, dollop a generous amount of whipped cream on top of the strawberries, and then carefully place the second layer of cake on top, finishing with more strawberries and whipped cream to create a beautiful presentation. Step 6: Garnish and Serve For a lovely finishing touch, garnish your irresistible strawberry shortcake with additional strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired. Slice the cake into wedges and serve immediately, allowing your family and friends to indulge in the heavenly layers of cake, strawberries, and whipped cream that make this summer dessert truly unforgettable. What to Serve with Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake? Delight in a complete summer meal by pairing your luscious strawberry shortcake with these scrumptious side dishes and beverages. Refreshing Mint Tea: A cool herbal infusion to cleanse the palate and balance the sweetness of the cake. Serve chilled for a delightful contrast! Grilled Peaches: The warm, caramelized flavors of grilled peaches enhance the fruity notes in your dessert. Their smoky sweetness creates a lovely harmony with the strawberries. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy goodness that melts perfectly into the layers of strawberry shortcake. It’s a timeless duo that never fails to impress! Lemonade Spritzer: This effervescent drink is a zesty companion to your dessert, adding a refreshing, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Elevate your strawberry experience with these decadent treats. The rich chocolate adds depth to the overall flavor while keeping the theme consistent. Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, these savory bites offer a contrasting texture to your shortcake. Fill them with fresh veggies for a refreshing crunch before indulging in dessert. Zesty Fruit Salad: Combine seasonal fruits for a bright medley that complements the strawberry flavor. The citrus notes and crisp textures enhance the overall experience. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies are perfect for dipping into your whipped cream, creating a delightful balance between textures and flavors. Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing, no-calorie drink option, lime-infused sparkling water cleanses the palate and offers a crisp finish to your meal. Choose your favorites, and enjoy a splendid summer feast that beautifully highlights the star of the show: your irresistible strawberry shortcake! Expert Tips for Making Strawberry Shortcake Chill Your Cream: Ensure that the heavy cream is thoroughly chilled before whipping. This helps in achieving fluffy peaks that make your strawberry shortcake truly decadent. Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining ingredients, mix only until just incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture desired in strawberry shortcake. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries in season for maximum flavor. If they’re too sweet, reduce sugar; if they’re not sweet enough, adjust your whipped cream gently. Layer Smartly: When assembling the cake, pour some of the strawberry juices on the bottom half to infuse moisture, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite of strawberry shortcake. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool entirely before slicing. A warm cake can result in a messy assembly and may not hold the strawberry and cream layers as well. Make Ahead Options These Irresistible Strawberry Shortcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the strawberries by washing, hulling, and slicing them, then tossing with sugar up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The creamy whipped topping can also be made a day ahead; just whip the cream with sugar and refrigerate until ready to assemble. As for the cake, it can be baked and cooled up to 3 days prior—simply wrap it tightly and store at room temperature. When ready to serve, layer the cake, strawberries, and whipped cream for a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious, ensuring you enjoy quality time with family and friends without the last-minute stress! Strawberry Shortcake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to personalize your strawberry shortcake to match your taste buds and dietary needs, making it even more delightful! Berry Medley: Mix strawberries with blueberries and raspberries for a colorful twist that adds a burst of flavor. Brighten your shortcake with a variety of berries for extra tartness and sweetness, creating an exciting combination! Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy whipping cream for coconut cream and butter for coconut oil. This creamy substitution is perfect for those avoiding dairy while maintaining a delightful consistency and flavor. Sweetener Swap: Use honey, maple syrup, or agave in place of granulated sugar for a healthier touch. Each alternative sweetener offers its own unique taste, allowing you to craft a shortcake that suits your sweet tooth perfectly. Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. You’ll still achieve a delightful cake that everyone at the table can enjoy without compromising on flavor or texture. Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor. These extracts elevate the classic taste, making your dessert even more aromatic and irresistible. Fruit Sauce: Drizzle a homemade berry sauce over the layers to enhance both flavor and presentation. Blend any leftover berries with a bit of sugar for a simple sauce that adds both a beautiful look and a sweet tang. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or pecans into the cake batter for a delightful crunch. This twist adds a unique texture, making each bite of your shortcake even more satisfying. Zesty Kick: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrusy note. This light tang balances out the sweetness of the strawberries and cream, giving you that extra zing everyone loves. For some blissful side pairings, try serving your strawberry shortcake with a refreshing glass of Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade or accompany it with a scoop of homemade ice cream for a delightful summer treat! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Room Temperature: Keep assembled shortcake at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but it’s best to serve it fresh for optimal texture and flavor. Fridge: Place leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Store the strawberries and whipped cream separately to maintain their integrity. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reassembling with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Reheating: If desired, gently warm the cake layers in a microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. Avoid reheating whipped cream; instead, whip fresh cream as needed to complement your strawberry shortcake. Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best strawberries for my shortcake? Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or mold. It’s best to pick strawberries that are in season for optimal flavor—typically during late spring to early summer. How should I store leftover strawberry shortcake? Very! To keep your shortcake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the strawberries and whipped cream separate from the cake layers, as this helps maintain their texture and quality. Can I freeze my strawberry shortcake? The more the merrier! You can freeze the unassembled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Fresh strawberries and whipped cream can be added afterward for a delightful treat. What if my cake turns out dense or soggy? No worries! If your cake is dense, it might be due to over-mixing the batter. Remember, mix until just combined for a light cake. A soggy bottom could be due to too much juice from the strawberries soaking in; ensure they’re well-drained before assembly and layer them wisely. Are there any dietary considerations with strawberry shortcake? Very much so! If you have dietary restrictions, consider swapping heavy whipping cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Also, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener. Be cautious with allergies related to dairy or gluten if you substitute the flour or cream. How can I enhance the flavor of my strawberry shortcake? Certainly! To elevate the taste, you can add a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream. Experiment with other fruits like peaches or raspberries for a fun twist. Additionally, some homemade lemon zest in the whipped cream can add a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with strawberries! Perfect Strawberry Shortcake That Will Melt Your Heart This Perfect Strawberry Shortcake combines fluffy layers of buttery cake, juicy strawberries, and light whipped cream, creating a delightful dessert for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative.2 teaspoons Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent.1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.1/2 cup Butter Softened.3/4 cup Milk Can substitute with a dairy-free option.For the Strawberries2 cups Strawberries Fresh and juicy.1/4 cup Sugar Can use honey or maple syrup.For the Whipped Cream1 cup Whipping Cream Heavy whipping cream is recommended.2 tablespoons Sugar Adjust to taste. Equipment mixing bowlelectric mixer9-inch Round Cake Pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsWash and hull 2 cups of fresh strawberries, then slice them into quarters. Toss with 1/4 cup of sugar and let sit for about 30 minutes.In a mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Whip on medium speed, adding 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Chill until ready to use.Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. Cut in 1/2 cup of softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 3/4 cup of milk, mixing gently until just combined.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.Slice the cooled cake in half horizontally. Spread the macerated strawberries on the bottom layer, dollop whipped cream on top, then place the second cake layer on top and finish with more strawberries and whipped cream.Garnish with additional strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired. Slice into wedges and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure fresh ingredients are used for the best flavor. Chill the cream before whipping for optimal results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
