Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake to Sweeten Your Day

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the sun starts to rise and the kitchen fills with warmth, there s a sweet anticipation in the air. When I first tasted Strawberry Shortcake Cake, I knew it was a moment I wanted to recreate for all my friends and family. This delightful dessert strikes the perfect balance between moist cake layers and luscious strawberry goodness, bringing smiles and memories with each bite.

I often find that the simplest moments spark the most joy like hosting a gathering where everyone lingers over dessert. Underneath its elegant layers, this Strawberry Shortcake Cake is impressively easy to make, even on a busy day. It s the kind of recipe that turns a regular weeknight dinner into a celebration, helping you break free from the fast food routine that can often creep into our lives. Plus, the vibrant taste of fresh strawberries and the fluffy cream cheese frosting create a flavor explosion that feels like sunshine on a plate.

So grab your mixing bowls, and let s dive into creating something truly special that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Strawberry Shortcake Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of moist sponge and fresh strawberries creates a sweet, memorable experience.

Makes Any Occasion Special: This cake elevates everything from casual family dinners to sophisticated gatherings.

Quick Assembly: Layering the cake takes minimal time, letting you indulge in desserts without the stress.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to add your spin experiment with different fruits or garnishes!

Crowd Favorite: This showstopper will have your guests raving and asking for the recipe.

Experience the joy of homemade desserts with this delightful cake, a perfect way to sweeten your day!

Strawberry Shortcake Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
All-purpose flour Essential for the cake s structure and texture.
Baking powder Creates the perfect rise for a light and fluffy cake.
Salt Enhances all the flavors, bringing balance.
Granulated sugar Sweetens the cake and contributes to the moistness.
Vegetable or canola oil Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Large eggs Provides richness and stability to the batter.
Large egg whites Adds lightness to the cake without extra fat.
Pure vanilla extract Infuses a delightful aroma and sweetness.
Almond extract A little goes a long way in adding depth to the flavor.
Sour cream Ensures a moist texture and a slight tang.
Milk Keeps the batter smooth and helps in achieving the right consistency.

For the Strawberry Filling
Fresh strawberries The star of the dessert; ensure they are ripe for the best flavor.
Strawberry jam Enhances the natural sweetness and helps the strawberries adhere to the layers.

For the Frosting
Cream cheese Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
Powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting while providing a smooth texture.
Vanilla extract Complements the cream cheese with added flavor.
Heavy whipping cream Whips up beautifully to create a light, fluffy frosting for the cake.

Now that you have all the Strawberry Shortcake Cake ingredients, it s time to embrace your inner baker and create this delightful dessert!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully during the process.

2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until just combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

3. Beat the sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, and extracts in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Stir in the sour cream until everything is well combined.

4. Combine half of the flour mixture with the batter, mixing gently. Gradually pour in the milk, followed by the remaining flour mixture, scraping the bowl as needed. Be careful not to overmix; we want a light, fluffy texture!

5. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing the sides. Evenly divide the batter among the three pans, tapping them on the countertop to release any air bubbles.

6. Bake the cakes for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. If necessary, rotate the pans halfway through for even browning. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Mix the sliced strawberries with the strawberry jam and set them aside while you prepare the frosting.

8. Combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Beat until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream while mixing, scraping the bowl often. Increase speed and whip until stiff peaks form.

9. Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving platter. Spread one-third of the frosting on top, followed by about 1 ¼ cups of the strawberry mixture. Repeat the process with the second layer, then top the final layer with the remaining frosting, garnishing with the rest of the strawberries.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a flavorful touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the Strawberry Shortcake Cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: To maximize freshness, store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 5 days, sealed in an airtight container. This preserves the moist texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, place it in a preheated oven set at 350 °F for about 10 minutes to enjoy a fresh taste.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on their dessert preparations! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool completely before wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating to maintain moisture. The strawberry filling can also be prepared a day prior; just combine the sliced strawberries with the jam and refrigerate to keep them fresh. When it s time to assemble, whip up the frosting and layer the cake, and your scrumptious Strawberry Shortcake Cake will be just as delightful as when made fresh! This way, you ll create an irresistible dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering.

Strawberry Shortcake Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful cake with these fun twists that will impress your loved ones!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a cake everyone can enjoy. You won t miss the wheat at all!

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream in place of milk and heavy cream for a luscious vegan option. It s a great way to keep the flavors vibrant!

• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick that pairs beautifully with strawberries. It brightens each bite!

• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a decadent chocolate version that melds seamlessly with the strawberries. Rich and indulgent!

• Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter for a delightful texture contrast. Their crunch will elevate every slice!

• Berries Galore: Swap strawberries for a blend of mixed berries blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful and flavorful twist. Each bite will be a surprise!

• Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the frosting for a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness. It s a delicious adventure for your palate!

Each variation opens a new doorway to creativity, helping you create unforgettable memories around the table!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cake

Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, seasonal strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid overripe ones, as they can make the filling too watery.

Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture in your Strawberry Shortcake Cake.

Cooling Time: Allow the cake layers to cool completely on a rack before assembling. This prevents the frosting from melting off the layers.

Layering Strategy: Ensure each layer is level by trimming any uneven tops after cooling. This creates a beautiful presentation and makes serving easier.

Whipping Cream: When whipping the heavy cream, don t skip the scraping step. This ensures an evenly whipped frosting with stiff peaks.

Smooth Frosting: For a professional touch, use an offset spatula to spread the frosting evenly on each layer for a smooth finish.

What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cake?

Imagine a delightful summer picnic or a cozy family gathering, where each bite of cake pairs perfectly with equally inviting flavors.

• Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop enhances the cake s sweetness and complements the strawberry filling with creamy richness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The velvety smoothness of vanilla ice cream creates a wonderful contrast against the tender cake layers, perfect for warm days.
• Mint-Infused Iced Tea: Refreshing and fragrant, this beverage cleanses the palate and elevates your dessert experience beautifully.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: They add a touch of elegance and a new dimension of flavor that pairs harmoniously with the cake s fruitiness.
• Lemon Curd: A tart touch that balances the sweetness of the cake while adding a zesty twist to every bite.
• Roasted Nuts: A crunchy side snack that introduces a delightful texture, providing a savory contrast to the sweet elements of dessert.
• Sparkling White Sangria: Chilled and fruity, this drink brings a celebratory spirit to the table, enhancing your fun, casual gatherings.
• Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing option that complements the cake while using up any extra seasonal fruits you may have.

Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best strawberries for my cake?
Absolutely! Select strawberries that are fully ripe, vibrant red, and free from dark spots or bruises. The best time to pick them is during peak season when they re most flavorful. If possible, look for local, seasonal strawberries as they tend to have the highest sweetness and juiciness!

How should I store my leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
To keep your cake fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you prefer to keep it at room temperature, it can last for about 2 days. Just cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cake?
Absolutely! For freezing, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing flavor. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What should I do if my cake layers are uneven?
No worries! If your cake layers turn out uneven after baking, just use a serrated knife to level them. Slice off the domed tops carefully, ensuring that each layer is flat. This will not only make assembly easier but also ensure that your cake looks beautiful when served.

Is this Strawberry Shortcake Cake safe for kids and those with allergies?
Very! However, be cautious with allergies. The cake contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. For kids, it s a delightful treat but consider their dietary restrictions. You can always substitute with egg replacers and gluten-free flour for those needing adjustments. Always check for any specific allergies before serving!

How can I make my frosting even fluffier?
To achieve an even fluffier cream cheese frosting, ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping. Start on a low speed to combine ingredients and gradually increase to high speed, mixing until stiff peaks form. If you want an extra boost, try adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar to enhance the sweetness and texture!