Every summer gathering deserves a show-stopping dessert that doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all day. This strawberry sheet shortcake is your ticket to sweet, effortless bliss, combining fluffy cake, juicy strawberries, and whipped cream in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The sheet cake base is light and airy, providing the perfect canvas for the strawberries and cream.
- Using fresh, in-season strawberries ensures the filling is bursting with flavor.
- The recipe is designed for minimal fuss, making it ideal for busy hosts.
- It’s easily scalable, so you can feed a crowd without doubling the work.
- The combination of textures and flavors is irresistibly delicious, guaranteed to please any palate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your cake will have a uniform texture without any pockets of unmixed ingredients.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated. This liquid mixture will give your cake its moisture and richness.
Combine and Bake
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Strawberries and Cream
While the cake cools, slice your strawberries and set them aside. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will add a light, airy texture to your shortcake.
Assemble the Shortcake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cream. For best results, let the assembled shortcake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra touch of elegance, you can drizzle the assembled shortcake with a little melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought whipped cream, but homemade really makes a difference in flavor and texture. To ensure your cake is perfectly moist, don’t overbake it; start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.
- Add a layer of lemon curd between the cake and whipped cream for a citrusy twist.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolatey base.
- Top with a mix of different berries for a colorful and varied presentation.
- For a boozy version, soak the strawberries in a little Grand Marnier or Chambord before assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for best results.
How long can I store the assembled shortcake? The shortcake is best enjoyed within 24 hours of assembly, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the whipped cream may start to deflate after the first day.
Can I freeze the cake base? Absolutely! The cake base freezes well for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before assembling.
Summary
This strawberry sheet shortcake is the perfect dessert for any summer occasion, combining ease of preparation with delicious results. With its fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
