Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
The strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer. Picture bright red strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and light, airy cake coming together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This cake is a perfect way to celebrate warm weather and makes for an impressive centerpiece at picnics, BBQs, or birthday parties.
Why Strawberry Shortcake is a Summer Classic?
The secret to why strawberry shortcake has become a beloved summer classic lies in its refreshing simplicity. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream evokes nostalgia for many, reminding us of backyard gatherings and sun-soaked afternoons. According to the USDA, strawberries are in season from April to June, making them readily available during the summer months, which adds to their appeal as a seasonal treat.
Not only is this cake visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different flavors or toppings, making it easy to cater to various tastes. Whether served as a dessert after a casual dinner or enjoyed as a sweet snack during a summer barbecue, this cake is sure to leave everyone happy. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create a dessert everyone will love!
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Fresh strawberries and homemade components
Creating a show-stopping strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe begins with fresh ingredients, and nothing beats ripe, juicy strawberries. For optimal flavor, look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. You'll need about 3 cups, and a quick toss with sugar and a bit of strawberry jam amplifies their sweetness!
To complement those strawberries, we craft each component from scratch. Start with a moist white cake, featuring all-purpose cake flour and a hint of buttermilk for tenderness. The homemade whipped cream frosting—light and airy—requires heavy cream and powdered sugar, whipped to just the right consistency. Don't forget the added texture from our baked shortbread crumbs; they're fun to make and elevate the cake's presentation while adding a delightful crunch.
Why not embrace the homemade spirit and transform this classic treat into something uniquely yours? Explore more about baking essentials and techniques through trusted resources like the Joy of Baking or King Arthur Baking. Let’s get baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Creating a strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe at home might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward and immensely satisfying. Follow these steps to bring this delightful dessert to life!
Gathering Your Ingredients
First things first, let’s gather everything you’ll need:
- White Cake: Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, butter, egg whites, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk.
- Shortbread Crumbs: Cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, and vanilla.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries, strawberry jam, and sugar.
- Whipped Cream Frosting: Unflavored gelatin, cold water, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results! Also, don’t miss the DIY buttermilk recipe in the notes section – it’s a simple tip that can elevate your cake.
Baking the White Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your cake pans with baking spray and parchment paper at the bottom. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, using a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in your egg whites, vegetable oil, and vanilla.
Finally, add your dry ingredients along with the buttermilk. The batter will be on the thin side, which is perfectly fine! Divide it between your pans and let them bake for about 28 to 32 minutes until they spring back when touched.
Making the Shortbread Crumbs
While the cakes are baking, it’s time to create those delicious shortbread crumbs that add crunch and flavor. Preheat your oven to 250°F (121°C) and mix the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, add melted butter and vanilla, mixing until clusters form. Spread these out on a baking sheet, and pop them in the oven for a lovely 30 minutes.
Preparing the Sweetened Strawberries
To ensure your strawberries are luscious and ready to shine, mix sliced strawberries with strawberry jam and a bit of sugar. Let them sit for a bit to create that sweet strawberry syrup that will ooze deliciousness throughout your cake layers.
Whipping Up the Cream Frosting
Next, let’s create that cloud-like whipped cream frosting! Chill your mixing bowl beforehand for optimal results. Start by sprinkling gelatin in cold water and letting it sit. Then, whip together the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until thickened but not yet peaky. Reheat your gelatin mixture slightly, then drizzle it into the whipped cream while mixing to achieve those perfect stiff peaks.
Assembling the Cake Layers
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together! Level your cooled cake layers and set the first one down on a serving plate. Soak it with some of the strawberry syrup, then create a border with the whipped cream frosting. Top it with strawberries and shortbread crumbs before layering on the next cake.
Repeat this for your other layers. Once assembled, feel free to garnish with some extra strawberries or edible flowers for a touch of flair. You now have the ultimate strawberry shortcake layer cake that will impress at any gathering!
Happy baking! For more tips and tricks on cake decorating, check out resources like The Kitchn or King Arthur Baking.
Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Gluten-free Options for the Cake
If you're looking for gluten-free options for your strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe, fear not! Simply swap out regular cake flour with a blend of gluten-free flour designed for baking. Many brands offer a one-to-one substitute that works beautifully. Plus, make sure to use gluten-free baking powder and check the labels of your other ingredients. Your cake will remain fluffy and moist, proving deliciousness doesn't have to come at the expense of dietary needs.
Adding Flavors: Lemon or Almond Extracts
Want to add a twist to your cake? Consider incorporating flavors like lemon or almond extracts into the batter. A teaspoon of lemon extract can brighten up the flavor profile, making each bite refreshing. Alternatively, almond extract lends a delightful nuttiness that complements the strawberries perfectly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these flavors while keeping the essence of your strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe intact!
For more ideas and inspiration, check out this gluten-free baking guide or this extract flavoring resource. Your cake will impress no matter the variation!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Proper Cake Level Techniques
To ensure your strawberry shortcake layer cake layers are perfectly level, use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to trim the tops of your cooled cakes if needed. This ensures each layer stacks neatly, giving your cake a professional look. Take your time—slice slowly to maintain evenness and avoid domed tops.
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your cake. When eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature, they combine more easily, creating a smoother batter. This simple step can make a world of difference, resulting in that tender cake we all crave. Consider setting these ingredients out an hour before you start baking for best results. Want more tips? Check out this guide on baking basics!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Best accompaniments for serving
Enhance your delightful strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe with simple accompaniments that elevate the overall experience. Consider serving it alongside:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Fresh mint leaves to add a touch of color and freshness.
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
- A refreshing cup of herbal or iced tea, which balances the sweetness beautifully.
Visual presentation tips
Making your cake visually stunning is key to impressing guests. Use these tips to capture attention:
- Decorate the top with whole strawberries and delicate whipped cream dollops.
- Sprinkle shortbread crumbs generously over the layers for a rustic charm.
- Serve each slice on a colorful plate to create a delightful pop against the creamy whites and reds.
- Consider adding edible flowers, like chamomile, for an elegant touch.
By focusing on both taste and presentation, your strawberry shortcake layer cake will not only be a feast for the palate but also a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering.
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Preparation Time
Get ready to have fun in the kitchen! The preparation time for this delightful strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe is about 45 minutes. This includes preparing all your ingredients, baking the layers, and making the luscious whipped cream frosting.
Baking Time
Once your batter is in the oven, it’ll need around 1 hour to bake perfectly. This time allows each cake layer to rise beautifully and develop that irresistible light texture that makes this cake so special.
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s definitely worth the time for a cake that’s sure to impress your friends and family at any gathering! If you’d like to streamline your efforts, consider prepping some components the day before. For more tips, check out this guide on cake preparation.
Now that you have the timing down, let’s get baking—and don’t forget to enjoy a sweet bite of those strawberries while you’re at it!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Calories per slice
Each slice of this delightful strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe contains approximately 330 calories. Perfect for a sweet treat without overindulging!
Sugar content
This cake has about 24 grams of sugar per slice. That’s a little higher than a typical dessert, but those fresh strawberries make it oh-so-worth-it!
Protein details
You’ll get around 3 grams of protein in each slice, thanks to the eggs in the cake and the cream in the frosting. Not a protein powerhouse, but it’s an indulgent dessert after all! Want to boost your protein intake? Consider pairing it with a Greek yogurt side!
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You want a perfectly baked strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe to be springy to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Typically, this takes about 28 to 32 minutes at 350°F. When you pull it from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the layers ahead of time. They can be stored, tightly wrapped, at room temperature for up to two days or in the freezer for up to two months. Shortbread crumbs can also be made ahead and kept in an airtight container. Just remember, the whipped cream frosting is best when made fresh right before piping!
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly:
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake fluffy.
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.
- Don't forget to level the cake layers before stacking!
For more helpful tips, consider checking baking blogs or cooking channels for inspiration!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Creating a strawberry shortcake layer cake is not just about following a recipe—it's about the joy of homemade desserts that light up your gatherings. This cake, bursting with fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream, brings a slice of summer to every occasion. Relish the flavors, and don't forget to share the smiles it creates!
Recap of the Joy of Homemade Desserts
Homemade desserts, like our delightful cake, have a special charm. The smell of baking wafts through your kitchen, creating warmth and nostalgia. As you gather with friends or family, they foster connection and shared joy. According to a survey by the American Culinary Federation, over 65% of people believe that homecooked meals, including desserts, are linked to happiness. There’s something uniquely satisfying about creating these moments from scratch.
So why wait? Dive into this strawberry shortcake layer cake recipe and craft your own delicious memories! For more dessert inspiration, check out The Kitchn or Serious Eats for a treasure trove of ideas.
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- oven
- Cake Pans
- baking sheet
Ingredients
White Cake
- 2.5 cups cake flour sifted
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter room temperature
- 4 large egg whites room temperature
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1.25 cups full-fat buttermilk room temperature
Baked Shortbread Crumbs
- 0.75 cups cake flour
- 2.5 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 0.125 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
- 0.5 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Strawberries
- 3 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoon strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Whipped Cream Frosting
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 1.5 tablespoon cold water
- 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream cold
- 0.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the White Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/177°C and prepare cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg whites, vegetable oil, and vanilla, mix to combine.
- Add the flour mixture and buttermilk, mix until combined.
- Divide the batter into pans and bake for 28 to 32 minutes.
- Let cakes cool for 5 minutes, then remove to cool completely.
Make the Shortbread Crumbs
- Preheat oven to 250°F/121ºC and prepare a baking sheet.
- Whisk together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add melted butter and vanilla, mix until clusters form.
- Spread the clusters on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
- Cool completely before use.
Make the Strawberries
- Mix strawberries, strawberry jam, and sugar, let sit.
Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
- Chill mixer bowl, dissolve gelatin in cold water.
- Mix heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then whip.
- Add the warm gelatin to the mixture, whip until stiff peaks.
Assembly
- Layer cooled cake with strawberry soak, frosting, strawberries, and crumbs.
- Repeat with remaining layers and garnish as desired.
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