Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake (Printable)
A dreamy layered dessert featuring vanilla sponge, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Cake Components
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
09 - ¾ cup buttermilk
→ Strawberry Filling
10 - 1½ pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
11 - ½ cup granulated sugar
12 - 2 teaspoons lemon juice
→ Whipped Cream
13 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
14 - ¼ cup powdered sugar
15 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.
03 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
04 - Beat in eggs one at a time, incorporating fully after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
05 - Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
06 - Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto wire racks to cool completely.
07 - Combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let stand for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to release natural juices and create a syrupy consistency.
08 - In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, approximately 3-4 minutes.
09 - Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Distribute half the macerated strawberries and their juices over the surface. Spread half the whipped cream evenly on top. Position the second cake layer. Cover with remaining strawberries and finish with the remaining whipped cream, spreading to the edges.
10 - Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and cream to set. Slice with a serrated knife for clean portions.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The combination of tender vanilla cake and macerated berries feels like summer on a plate
- It travels surprisingly well for picnics and potlucks
02 -
- Room temperature ingredients prevent curdling and ensure even baking
- The cakes must be completely cool or the whipped cream will melt into a sad mess
03 -
- Brush each cake layer with some of the strawberry juices before adding cream for extra moisture
- Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for 10 minutes before whipping cream