Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Moist With Fresh Strawberries
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is one of those desserts that always feels special. I still remember the first time I baked it for a summer family dinner. The kitchen smelled of vanilla and butter while bowls of fresh strawberries rested on the counter, releasing their sweet juices. Once the fluffy cake layers cooled, I stacked them with soft whipped cream and bright red berries. The result was a beautiful centerpiece that tasted as good as it looked. This recipe creates a strawberry cake moist enough to melt in your mouth with every bite, and it is just as elegant as an Italian strawberry cake you would find in a bakery.
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit until juicy.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
- Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
- Divide batter into greased pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Layer cake: spread whipped cream and sliced strawberries between each layer.
- Cover entire cake with remaining whipped cream. Decorate with whole strawberries if desired.
- Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture and presentation.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this dessert.
- It is a fresh strawberries cake that highlights natural flavors.
- The cake layers are light and tender, perfect for anyone who enjoys light cake flavors.
- It uses simple pantry ingredients but looks bakery professional.
- A cake with whipped frosting is airy and refreshing compared to heavy buttercream.
- The recipe belongs to the family of fruit based cakes, making it ideal for spring and summer.
- It is flexible enough for birthdays, weddings, Easter, or casual family gatherings.
If you want a show-stopping dessert that tastes fresh and never too heavy, this is the one.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cake With Strawberries
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Spoon and level for accuracy |
| Baking powder | 1 tbsp | Gives height and softness |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances the flavors |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup softened | Rich base for the batter |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ¾ cups | Adjust sweetness as needed |
| Eggs | 4 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tbsp | Deep flavor |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | Keeps the strawberry cake moist |
| Fresh strawberries | 2 lbs sliced | Core ingredient for cake with strawberries |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Bright and tangy |
| Heavy cream | 3 cups cold | For stable whipped frosting |
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | Smooth and sweet |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | Used in whipped frosting |
How to make Whipped Cream Strawberry Cake
- Prepare strawberries by tossing them with sugar and lemon juice. Let them rest until they release juices.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Beat butter and sugar until creamy, then add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla.
- Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, ending with flour. This step ensures a strawberry cake moist and fluffy.
- Divide batter between pans and bake until golden. Cool completely before assembling.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. This creates the perfect cake with whipped frosting.
- Layer cake with whipped cream and strawberries. Repeat with all layers. Cover the cake in frosting and garnish with whole berries.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes to set.
This method creates the perfect whipped cream strawberry cake with bakery-level results.
How to serve Fresh Strawberries Cake
Serving is just as fun as baking.
- Add a drizzle of strawberry syrup on each slice.
- Pair with sparkling lemonade, iced coffee, or champagne.
- Create holiday versions by adding raspberries for Valentine’s Day or blueberries for patriotic celebrations.
- Decorate with edible flowers for a spring or Easter table.
If you are searching for cake recipes with strawberries, this one will always impress.
How to perfect Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for even mixing.
- Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream.
- Do not overmix once flour is added to maintain light cake flavors.
- Line cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Drain strawberries slightly before layering so the cake does not turn soggy.
These tips guarantee success with this fruit based cake every time.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping buttermilk results in a dry cake.
- Overbaking reduces the chance of a strawberry cake moist texture.
- Warm cream will not whip correctly.
- Stacking cakes before they cool causes the frosting to melt.
- Adding too much strawberry syrup makes the layers soggy.
Storage and make ahead tips
| Method | How to Store | Shelf Life |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 2 to 3 days |
| Freezer | Wrap unfrosted layers well | 2 months |
| Whipped cream | Best made fresh | 24 hours |
| Serving | Always enjoy chilled | N/A |
Bake layers ahead, freeze them, and assemble with fresh cream and berries when needed.
Frequently asked questions about Cake Recipes With Strawberries
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but drain them well. Fresh fruit works best in a strawberry cake with strawberries.
Can I prepare the cake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours before serving and store in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I change the frosting?
Yes, mascarpone cream is a delicious option similar to Italian strawberry cake.
Can I make cupcakes instead of a whole cake?
Yes, this recipe adapts beautifully into whipped cream strawberry cake cupcakes.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a fresh, light, and unforgettable dessert. It is one of the best cake recipes with strawberries because it combines moist vanilla layers, whipped cream, and juicy fruit into a stunning treat. Whether for a family gathering, a holiday table, or a summer picnic, this cake delivers beauty and flavor in every slice. Save this recipe today and enjoy the best balance of sweetness and freshness.
