Unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Cake in 5 Simple Steps

Hey there, fellow baking enthusiasts! Ready to whip up something that’s not just a cake but a full-on experience? If you’re craving the kind of dessert that makes everyone swoon and grabs the attention of your Facebook feed, you’ve landed in the right spot. Today, we’re diving into the world of Strawberry Shortcake Cake—a classic that’s both timeless and utterly delicious.

I’ve been making this strawberry shortcake for years, and let me tell you, it never disappoints. Whether it’s a birthday, a sunny picnic, or just because you feel like celebrating life, this cake is your answer. So, grab your apron! We’re going to craft this delicious masterpiece in five simple steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, you need to know what’s going into this glorious creation. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk works best!)
• 3.5 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust based on your taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to double-check your pantry before heading to the store. Nobody enjoys an unexpected midnight run for sugar, right? 😂

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how to bake the magic:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and toasty in there.
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step is crucial unless you want your cake making a not-so-great escape from the pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is like giving your cake a little spa day—trust me; it makes a difference!
4. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla. Mix until everything’s combined.
5. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl, then add it gradually to your wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Remember, overmixing is the enemy here.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and pop them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool for around 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Oh, the sweet smell of victory (and vanilla), am I right? 😉

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While you’re waiting for your cakes to cool, let’s focus on that luscious filling! Here’s the lowdown:

1. In a medium bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice.
2. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step allows the strawberries to release their juices and soften up. Trust me, magic happens during this time.

When you’re done, you’ll have beautifully sweet and juicy strawberries ready to elevate your shortcake to legendary status.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream

Okay, we’re almost there! Now, onto the pièce de résistance: the whipped cream.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or you’ll end up with butter. And nobody wants a butter cake unless we plan on making that a thing.
3. Once whipped to perfection, set it aside.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

This is the part where your cake transforms from a simple dessert into a showstopper. Here’s how:

1. Take your first cake layer and place it on a serving platter.
2. Spread a layer of the strawberry filling on top, making sure to leave some strawberry goodness for the next layer.
3. Top that with a generous dollop of whipped cream. We love our whipped cream!
4. Carefully place the second cake layer on top. It’s like a beautiful cake love story unfolding right in your kitchen.
5. Now, repeat the process on top: add more strawberries and whipped cream.
6. For the final touch, feel free to pile on some extra strawberries and a sprinkle of mint leaves for that fancy farmer’s market vibe.

And voila! You’ve just created a cake so stunning, people are going to think you hired a professional to whip it up. Can I get a round of applause? 👏

Tips for Making Your Cake Unforgettable

1. Use Fresh Strawberries

- The fresher, the better! Stale strawberries are like sad faces in a cake. Don’t be that person.

2. Chill Your Tools

- For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters. It’ll help the cream whip up faster (and create some serious fluffiness!).

3. Don’t Stress About Perfection

- If your cake isn’t Instagram-perfect, who cares? It’s all about the flavor, my friend. 🍰

4. Experiment with Flavors

- Ever thought about adding a bit of orange zest or a splash of almond extract? Get creative! 

Conclusion

And there you have it: your Unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Cake in 5 Simple Steps. You’ve turned a bunch of humble ingredients into something absolutely delicious and worthy of any celebration. If someone tells you they don’t like cake after you serve this, just tell them they need to broaden their horizons. 😉

So go ahead! Treat your friends (or just yourself—I won’t judge). And if you’ve made this cake and it didn’t turn out just right, remember: the best part of baking is the fun you have along the way. Go grab those strawberries, roll up your sleeves, and get baking!

Happy baking, and may your cake be forever moist! 🍓🎉