Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, the Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers recipe is your new best friend. This recipe combines fluffy, moist cake layers layered lovingly with fresh strawberries and creamy frosting to give you that perfect balance of sweetness and freshness every time. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers bring a classic favorite to your table with a charming homemade touch that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshingly light: The cake layers are airy and moist, making each bite feel delicate yet satisfying.
• Fresh berry goodness: Using ripe, juicy strawberries adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the entire dessert.
• Perfect for any occasion: Its elegant look and delicious taste make it ideal for both casual get-togethers and fancy celebrations.
• Customizable layers: You can easily adjust the frosting and fillings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Simple to make: With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, it’s beginner-friendly while delivering impressive results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make truly delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers, you want ingredients that are simple, fresh, and harmonious. Each element from the cake flour to the fresh strawberries plays an important role in building the texture, flavor, and appearance of this dessert.

• All-purpose flour: This provides a tender crumb without making the cake too dense.
• Baking powder: Essential for a light rise and fluffy texture in the cake layers.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve proper browning in the cake.
• Unsalted butter: For richness and moistness that enhances the cake layers’ flavor.
• Eggs: These bind the cake together and contribute to the structure and richness.
• Whole milk or buttermilk: Adds tenderness and subtle tang, keeping the cake soft.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, sweet aroma that complements the strawberries.
• Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient, sliced to add juicy bursts of flavor between layers.
• Heavy cream: Whipped to make the smooth, creamy frosting that balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Powdered sugar: For creamy frosting sweetness without any graininess.

Variations for Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers

One of the joys of making Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to accommodate dietary restrictions or simply experiment with flavors, this recipe adapts beautifully.

• Use gluten-free flour: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make it friendly for those avoiding gluten.
• Whipped cream cheese frosting: Add cream cheese for a tangy frosting twist that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
• Mixed berry version: Incorporate blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries along with strawberries for a colorful mix.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacers for a cruelty-free dessert.
• Chocolate layers: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter to make chocolate strawberry shortcake layers for a rich variation.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and letting the butter and eggs come to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Slice the strawberries evenly and set them aside so they’re ready to layer in the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the leavening evenly throughout the flour. This step helps your cake develop an even rise and soft texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, making the cake layers fluffy and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined and smooth before adding the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Reduce the mixer speed and alternate adding the dry ingredients and whole milk (or buttermilk) into the batter, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb without overworking the batter.

Step 6: Bake Your Layers

Divide the batter evenly between greased and lined cake pans, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.

Step 7: Whip the Frosting

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form to create a light, fluffy frosting perfect for layering and topping the cake.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Layer one cake tier on your serving plate, spread a thick layer of whipped cream, then add a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries. Repeat with the next cake layer and finish by covering the whole cake with whipped cream and a few extra strawberries for garnish.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth, evenly mixed batter for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix your cake batter just until the ingredients come together to avoid dense cakes.
• Slice strawberries uniformly: Consistent size helps with even layering and beautiful presentation.
• Chill your frosting: Keep the whipped cream cold for easier spreading and a better hold on the cake layers.
• Let cakes cool completely: Warm cakes can melt your frosting and affect the structure.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers

Garnishes

Top your cake with additional fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch that excites the eyes and enhances the fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light lemon sorbet to complement the richness of the cake and bring a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching dessert table, plate individual slices with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or chocolate curls. You can also serve mini Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers in clear jars for charming, portable treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your strawberry shortcake cake layers refrigerated in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and prevent the whipped cream frosting from wilting. Consume within 2-3 days for best flavor.

Freezing

While freezing whipped cream frostings isn’t ideal, you can freeze the cake layers separately wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Thaw completely before assembling and frosting.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled, it’s not necessary to reheat. If desired, let slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but they release more water and may make the cake soggy, so it’s better to thaw and drain them thoroughly before use or stick to fresh strawberries for the best results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream alternative if you need a non-dairy option; just make sure to chill them well before whipping.

How do I prevent my cake from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake, and always store the cake covered in the refrigerator to lock in moisture and keep it soft.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substituting all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free flour blend works well. Just be sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Is it okay to assemble the cake the night before?

Yes, assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Shortcake Cake Layers are a timeless dessert that brings joy with every bite. This recipe’s perfect balance of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and luscious frosting means you’re just one baking session away from a stunning and delicious treat. Give it a try today and watch it become your new favorite go-to dessert that impresses friends and family alike!

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