Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Strawberry Shortcake Cake is a delightful dessert that frequently finds its way to gatherings, picnics, and family celebrations. But why is it such a beloved homemade favorite? It’s simple! This cake captures the essence of summer with its vibrant strawberries and fluffy whipped cream nestled between light, buttery cake layers. It’s a dessert that's both approachable for novice bakers and impressive enough to wow your guests.
The beauty of Strawberry Shortcake Cake lies in its versatility. You can easily elevate the classic recipe by incorporating different fruits or flavorings. It's a chance to get creative in the kitchen while delighting your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it at a backyard barbecue or as a sweet ending to a cozy dinner, this cake brings a slice of joy and nostalgia.
Experts say that homemade treats can strengthen connections among friends and family. Sharing a piece of Strawberry Shortcake Cake often sparks heartwarming conversations and cherished memories, making it a go-to option for a crowd-pleaser. If you’re ready to dive into baking this classic dessert, let’s gather your ingredients and get started! For tips on choosing fresh strawberries, check out this guide.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. Don't worry; you won’t need anything too fancy! Here’s what you need for a delightfully delicious cake that’s bound to impress at any gathering.
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - The base of your cake, giving it structure.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder - This helps the cake rise to a fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt - Just a pinch brings out the sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar - Sweetening it up for that perfect bite!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Adds a lovely warmth to the flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold - Essential for a rich taste and tender crumb.
- 1 cup milk - Moistens the batter and blends flavors.
- Demerara sugar for topping (optional) - A crunchy, sweet finish that’s totally worth it!
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream - This is what makes everything creamy and dreamy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Boost that vanilla flavor!
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, rinsed and cut into thin slices - The star of the show, adding freshness and color.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (to taste!) - Adjust according to how sweet you like your strawberries.
Be sure to grab the freshest strawberries you can find at your local market! You might even consider looking for a nearby farm where you can pick your own for the best flavor. Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Getting ready to make a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake? Wonderful choice! This step-by-step guide will take you through each phase, ensuring your dessert is as delicious as it is beautiful. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Preheat the oven and prepare the cake pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, grab an 8-inch round cake pan, line the bottom with parchment paper, and generously grease the sides with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your cake comes out easily and maintains that perfect texture. It’s all about those first impressions when you slice into it!
Mix dry ingredients for the cake
In a large mixing bowl, blend together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mixing your dry ingredients thoroughly at this stage helps avoid clumping, ensuring a light and fluffy cake—exactly what we want!
Incorporate the cold butter into the mixture
Now, for some magic: take ½ cup of cold unsalted butter and cut it into small pieces. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate it into your dry ingredients. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs, forming tiny clumps that’ll lead to the lovely texture of our cake.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Make a well in the center of your mixture, and gently pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it! The key to a tender cake is in that delicate mixing, allowing those flavors to blend harmoniously without overworking the batter.
Transfer batter to the prepared pan
Now it’s time to get that beautiful batter into the pan! Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some demerara sugar on top for a hint of caramelized crunch. It’s an extra touch that elevates your Strawberry Shortcake Cake from delicious to exceptional!
Bake the cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool for about 15 minutes. This is the perfect time to start planning your strawberry topping.
Cool the cake properly
After 15 minutes, run a butter knife around the edge of the cake and turn it out onto the rack. Let it cool completely before you assemble it. This is an essential step; if it’s too warm, your whipped cream will melt away!
Prepare the whipped cream and strawberries
While your cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare your toppings. In a medium bowl, combine 1 pint of sliced fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir it together and set it aside, allowing the strawberries to macerate and release their juices—a tasty treat in the making!
Next, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in a stand mixer until soft peaks form. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well. A fluffy, sweet whipped cream is the perfect finish for our cake!
Assemble the strawberry shortcake
Finally, when your cake is fully cooled, dollop the whipped cream on top and layer on those macerated strawberries. The blend of flavors, textures, and colors will have everyone rushing to the table! Enjoy each bite of your expertly crafted Strawberry Shortcake Cake, and don't forget to savor the joy of having made it yourself!
Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like sweet strawberries!
Variations of Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake
If you're on a gluten-free diet, don't worry! You can still enjoy a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake by swapping traditional flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix that contains xanthan gum for the best results. The cake's texture will remain light and fluffy, while fresh strawberries and whipped cream provide that classic taste we all love.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
For chocolate lovers, the Strawberry Shortcake Cake can easily be transformed into a decadent dessert. Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate base. This pairing of chocolate cake and sweet strawberries creates a delightful balance, making it a showstopper for any gathering. You’ve got to try it!
These delicious variations ensure there's a perfect option for everyone. Which one will you try first?
Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Choosing the Right Strawberries
Selecting the best strawberries can elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Cake to new heights. Look for strawberries that are vibrant red, firm to the touch, and have a sweet fragrance. Organically grown strawberries often have superior flavor, so consider checking local farmers' markets for the freshest options. Avoid those with bruises or soft spots, as these can affect the taste and texture of your cake.
Tips for Perfecting Whipped Cream
The key to luscious whipped cream is using heavy cream that’s super cold. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before whipping. Start on low speed to combine, then increase to high until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract for flavor, but don’t overbeat, or you’ll end up with butter! For an extra touch, consider adding a hint of almond extract for a unique twist.
By following these tips, your Strawberry Shortcake Cake will be a showstopper at any gathering!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Pairing with Fresh Fruits
Elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Cake by pairing it with a colorful assortment of fresh fruits. You can serve alongside juicy raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced peaches for a delightful twist. Combining these fruits not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile. A sprinkle of mint leaves can further amplify the freshness! Consider this vibrant fruit medley as a centerpiece that complements the dessert.
Adding a Scoop of Ice Cream
For an indulgent touch, add a scoop of creamy ice cream on top of your Strawberry Shortcake Cake. Vanilla bean or strawberry ice cream works wonderfully, but feel free to explore other flavors like coconut or pistachio to match your palate. The cold, velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and whipped cream, creating a blissful dessert experience. It’s a perfect treat for warm evenings or special gatherings!
For more lovely fruit pairings and delightful ice cream recommendations, check out this article for inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
When you're ready to whip up a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cake, it's helpful to have a clear idea of how much time each step will take. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Preparation Time
Expect to spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and preparing your batter. Prepping the pan and mixing everything together is straightforward and fun!
Baking Time
This delightful cake will need around 35 minutes in the oven. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooling Time
After baking, let your cake cool for about 15 minutes in the pan, then turn it out onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely—an additional 30 minutes will do the trick.
Assembly Time
Once cooled, assembly takes just about 10 minutes. Spread that luscious whipped cream, pile on the strawberries, and your stunning Strawberry Shortcake Cake is ready to impress!
By breaking down the time, you can easily plan your baking session and enjoy every delicious moment along the way! If you're interested in more helpful tips, consider checking out BBC Good Food's baking guide for additional techniques and ideas.
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Calories per serving
Each slice of Strawberry Shortcake Cake packs about 350 calories, making it a delightful indulgence. If you're sharing with friends, consider the slice sizes to keep portion control in check!
Sugar content
With approximately 20g of sugar per serving, this cake satisfies the sweet tooth without going overboard. Opting for less sugar in your whipped cream can slightly lower this number while keeping the dessert delicious!
Dairy content
This cake features rich dairy ingredients like heavy cream and milk, contributing to its creamy texture. Each serving contains about 16g of dairy, an essential source of calcium—a nice perk to enjoy while relishing this classic dessert.
For more insights on balancing indulgent desserts with health, check out articles from reputable sources like Healthline or Mayo Clinic.
Enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Cake guilt-free by keeping these nutritional facts in mind, and make sure to savor each bite!
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Shortcake Cake can be made a day in advance. Just bake, cool, and wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Wait until you're ready to serve to add the whipped cream and strawberries, as this will prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
How to store leftover strawberry shortcake?
To store any leftovers, keep the cake tightly covered in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If possible, store the whipped cream and strawberries separately to maintain their freshness. You can also use an airtight container for the cake to keep it moist. Check out Food Storage Guidelines for more tips!
What’s the best way to slice the cake?
For the perfect slices of your Strawberry Shortcake Cake, use a serrated knife. This will help maintain the layers and prevent squishing the cake. Dipping the knife in hot water and wiping it dry between cuts also works wonders for neat slices!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Creating a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cake is easier than you might think! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a dessert that impresses at any gathering. Serve it fresh and enjoy the blend of flavors, showcasing the sweetness of strawberries paired with creamy whipped goodness. Sharing this cake will surely bring smiles!
For more baking tips and delicious recipes, check out the Food Network and Serious Eats. Happy baking!
Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- 8-inch round pan
- Rubber spatula
- Stand mixer
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold
- 1 cup milk
- demerara sugar, for topping optional
for the topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pint fresh strawberries rinsed and cut into thin slices
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch round pan with parchment paper on the bottom and generously grease the sides with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix to combine.
- Cut the cold butter into small pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture starts to clump together.
- Make a well in the center and add the milk and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, using a rubber spatula to spread the batter into an even layer. If desired, top with demerara sugar.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a knife inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes before turning it out of the pan. Allow to cool completely before topping.
- Once the cake is cool, make the whipped cream and prep the strawberries. Place the sliced strawberries in a medium sized bowl with the sugar and stir to combine. Cover and set aside.
- Beat the heavy cream in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until soft peaks form and the whipped cream holds its shape. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- When ready to serve, spoon the whipped cream over the top of the cake and top with the strawberries!
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