Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake : The Ultimate Fruity Layer Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, look no further than strawberry shortcake layer cake. This easy layered cake recipe features light and fluffy cake layers, a generous spread of strawberry shortcake frosting, and fresh strawberries nestled between the layers. It’s the perfect combination of cake, cream, and fruit that will make any occasion extra special.

This strawberry shortcake cake recipe takes the classic strawberry shortcake and elevates it into a stunning layered dessert. With the perfect balance of fruity cake flavors, whipped cream, and tangy strawberry frosting, this cake is sure to be your new favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this dreamy dessert that combines the best of both worlds: cake and fruit!

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What Makes Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake So Irresistible

What makes this strawberry shortcake layer cake so irresistible is its blend of textures and flavors. The soft, moist cake layers are infused with the natural sweetness of strawberries and topped with a creamy, fluffy strawberry shortcake frosting. The fresh strawberries between the layers add a burst of juiciness and a pop of color, making it not just a treat for your taste buds but for your eyes as well. This cake is an indulgence that feels light and fresh, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer party, or just craving a slice of something sweet, this layered cake is a guaranteed hit. Let’s walk through how to make this perfect fruit layered cake from scratch!

Ingredients You Need for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best strawberry shortcake layer cake:

For the Cake Layers:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

This combination of ingredients creates the perfect balance of sweetness, fluffiness, and fruitiness. Whether you want to serve this cake as a simple cake with fruit or something more decadent, these ingredients have you covered.

Essential Tools for Making Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

To make this strawberry shortcake cake recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans (for the cake layers)
• Mixing bowls (for making the cake batter and frosting)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (for whipping the frosting)
• Offset spatula (for frosting the cake)
• Cooling rack (for cooling the cake layers)

These tools will make the process easier, ensuring your layered cake is perfectly baked and frosted.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Making this strawberry shortcake layer cake is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a delicious and elegant dessert:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the strawberry frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to release the juices.

4. Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, slice each cake layer in half horizontally to create 4 layers. Place the first layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberry frosting over the cake, followed by a layer of strawberry filling.

Repeat with the remaining layers of cake, frosting, and strawberry filling, ending with a layer of frosting on top.

5. Decorate and Serve

Decorate the top of the cake with additional fresh strawberries and any leftover frosting. Chill the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.

For another fun twist, try making this strawberry shortcake frosting for a different texture and flavor.

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How to Customize Your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

While this strawberry shortcake cake recipe is delicious as it is, you can easily make it your own by:

• Switching up the fruit: Add other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different fruity twist.
• Using different cake bases: Instead of the traditional cake layers, you can use sponge cake, angel food cake, or even pound cake.
• Adding a glaze: Drizzle a vanilla glaze or chocolate ganache over the top of the cake for added sweetness and decoration.

For another easy layered cake recipe, try this Italian strawberry cake for a delicious, fruit-infused dessert.

Serving Ideas: How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Like a Pro

Here are some great ways to serve your strawberry shortcake layer cake:

• At a celebration: This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. It’s guaranteed to impress your guests!
• With a scoop of ice cream: Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or strawberry sorbet for extra creaminess and flavor.
• As a casual dessert: It’s also great as a simple diy dessert for a cozy family dinner or a weekend treat.

For another fruit layered cake, try pairing it with a side of grilled fruit salad for a light, refreshing complement.

Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

To ensure your strawberry shortcake layer cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture for both the frosting and filling.
• Don’t overmix the batter: To keep your cake light and fluffy, mix the batter until just combined—don’t overdo it.
• Chill the cake before serving: Let the cake sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving so the frosting sets and the flavors meld.

For more favorite cake recipes, try making this easy chocolate layer cake for a rich, decadent alternative.

How to Store Leftovers from Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat:

Refrigeration

Store the leftover strawberry shortcake layer cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, but you can also let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices of the strawberry shortcake cake for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

What to Pair with Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

To complete your meal, pair the strawberry shortcake layer cake with:

• A light fruit salad: Pair with a citrus salad or melon salad for a refreshing side dish.
• A refreshing drink: Serve with a glass of iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water for a light, hydrating complement.
• Coffee or tea: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea.

For another great strawberry dessert, try pairing this cake with strawberry ice cream cake for a cool, creamy treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble the cake when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the regular flour to make this cake gluten-free.

How can I make the frosting firmer?
If you want a firmer frosting, you can add more powdered sugar or chill the frosting for 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the cake.

Why Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Is a Must-Try Dessert

This strawberry shortcake layer cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of soft, fluffy cake, rich frosting, and fresh strawberries is irresistible. Whether you’re looking for an impressive centerpiece for your dessert table or a sweet treat for a cozy evening, this cake is sure to please everyone.

For more easy layered cake recipes, try this layered chocolate cake for a decadent alternative.

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