Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe

I am absolutely thrilled to share this unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake with you. This dessert is a bright celebration of luscious strawberries, fluffy cake layers, and cloud-like whipped cream, all stacked together to create a showstopper that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at. The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake brings together classic, comforting flavors with a fresh, fruity twist, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a sweet treat to brighten your day. Once you try this, I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes for special occasions or when you simply want to indulge in pure, fruity bliss.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake truly special is its balance of simple, essential ingredients—each one carefully chosen to contribute texture, moisture, and that irresistible flavor. From the fluffy cake layers to the fresh strawberries and creamy filling, every item plays a crucial role in creating this masterpiece.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for tender and light cake layers that hold up well with the fillings.
• Baking powder: Gives the cake that lovely rise and airiness we all crave in a layer cake.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a moist crumb, with flavor that’s not overpowering.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and also works magic in macerating the strawberries for juicy bursts of flavor.
• Large eggs: Bind the cake and help provide structure, also contributing to a soft texture.
• Vanilla extract: Injects subtle warmth and depth to both the cake and whipped cream.
• Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender, balancing the batter perfectly.
• Heavy cream: Whipped into a fluffy filling that’s the perfect companion to the strawberries and cake.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without adding graininess.
• Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient, bursting with natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry topping with a refreshing tartness.
• Strawberry jam (optional): Adds a shiny glaze that makes the cake irresistible visually and gives an extra hit of berry goodness.
• Edible flowers and fresh mint leaves (optional): Elevate the presentation, turning this cake into a work of art.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 8-inch round cake pans with grease and parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution. Next, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this creates a wonderfully airy base. Add eggs one at a time, beating well between additions, then stir in vanilla extract. Alternate adding your dry flour mixture and whole milk, mixing just until everything comes together without overworking the batter. Divide evenly between the pans and bake for about 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While the cakes are cooling, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and fresh lemon juice. This maceration step is magical—it softens the berries and draws out juicy syrup, making the topping irresistibly fresh and flavorful. Let the mixture rest for 20 to 30 minutes to develop that luscious sweetness.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream filling is delightfully light yet sturdy enough to sandwich layers of cake and berries, creating the perfect creamy balance without overpowering the fruit.

Step 4: Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and generously spread whipped cream over the surface. Spoon an ample layer of the macerated strawberries and their syrup on top—this is where all the juicy flavor comes together. Add the second cake layer and repeat the whipped cream and strawberry layers on top, ensuring your cake looks as beautiful as it tastes. For that extra pop of shine and flavor, drizzle a little warmed strawberry jam over the top.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

The final touch is what turns this cake into a showstopper. Adorn the top with whole strawberries, edible flowers, and fresh mint leaves to add color, texture, and that wow factor. Your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is now ready to impress!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Garnishes

To make your cake as inviting as possible, fresh garnish is key. Whole strawberries add a natural, jewel-like finish, while edible flowers bring elegance and a touch of whimsy to the presentation. A few fresh mint leaves provide a lovely green contrast and a hint of refreshing aroma when served.

Side Dishes

When serving your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, consider light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a pot of warm tea. These enhance the creaminess and fruitiness without overwhelming the palate. A fresh fruit salad complements the flavors beautifully if you want to keep things fresh and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking for a twist? Try serving individual mini versions of the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake in glass jars, layered with whipped cream and macerated strawberries for a fun and elegant presentation. For a rustic vibe, showcase the cake on a wooden board with scattered strawberries and flower petals for an inviting, garden-party look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome to keep it fresh. It will maintain its wonderful texture and flavor for up to three days, so you can enjoy it without any rush.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to make it ahead of time. Wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and decorating your cake to preserve freshness and texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If needed, simply bring the cake to room temperature before serving, which allows the flavors to shine without losing the whipped cream’s delicate structure.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before macerating to avoid extra moisture that might make the cake soggy.

How do I make the whipped cream more stable?

For a sturdier whipped cream that holds up longer, try folding in 2 tablespoons of mascarpone or cream cheese. This adds a slight tang and firmness without compromising the lightness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that’s designed for cakes. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

For the best texture and freshness, assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it. You can prepare the cake layers and strawberry topping a day ahead, but keep whipped cream unsweetened until assembly to prevent sogginess.

Is there a way to keep the strawberry topping from making the cake soggy?

Yes, brushing the cake layers lightly with strawberry syrup or a thin layer of jam before adding the whipped cream and strawberries creates a moisture barrier, keeping your cake layers delightfully tender and intact.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake—a dessert that feels at once nostalgic and fresh, light yet indulgent. Once you dive into its layers of fluffy cake, velvety cream, and sweet-tart strawberries, you’ll understand why it’s so beloved. I sincerely hope you try this recipe soon and discover how easy and rewarding it is to create such a joyful, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings smiles all around. Happy baking and even happier tasting!