Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly showstopping dessert that sings of summer and fresh flavor, the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting is your answer. Imagine three dreamy layers of tender vanilla cake, sweet and juicy strawberries nestled in every bite, and billows of soft whipped cream frosting — it’s fun, celebratory, and surprisingly simple to bring together. This cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, striking the perfect balance between rich and airy. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or just want to indulge in something extra delicious, you’ll love how every part of this Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting delivers pure joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Only a handful of simple yet essential ingredients make up this classic cake, allowing each element to shine. Every component adds something special to the taste, texture, or color — making the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting as delightful as it looks.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, lending structure while keeping the crumb tender.
• Baking powder: Ensures the layers rise beautifully light and fluffy.
• Salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and bring out every flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create those perfectly golden edges.
• Vegetable or canola oil: Gives the cake moisture, making it incredibly soft even after chilling.
• Large eggs & egg whites: Add structure and richness without making the cake heavy.
• Pure vanilla extract: For wonderful warmth and classic cake flavor.
• Almond extract (optional but highly recommended): A subtle hint that complements the strawberries and makes every bite memorable.
• Sour cream: The secret to extra moisture and a tender crumb — don’t skip it!
• Milk (whole or 2% preferred): Adds lightness and just the right amount of richness.
• Fresh strawberries (sliced or diced, divided): Bursting with juicy sweetness and color in every slice.
• Strawberry jam: Boosts the real strawberry flavor and keeps the filling juicy.
• Additional whole strawberries for garnish (optional): For a wow-worthy, bakery-style finish.
• Cream cheese (softened to cool room temperature): Gives the whipped frosting a tangy, stable base.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting.
• Vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the cream with a gentle warmth.
• Heavy whipping cream (very cold): Whips up into clouds of lush frosting — chill it well for best results!

How to Make Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until they are thoroughly combined. In a stand mixer (paddle attachment is perfect) or with a hand mixer, beat together the sugar, oil, both eggs and egg whites, and the extracts until the mixture looks glossy and blended. Next, mix in the sour cream, which helps guarantee your layers stay moist. Alternate between adding half the flour mixture, then the milk, and then the remaining flour mixture, mixing just enough to combine after each addition. Scrape your bowl as you go so nothing is left behind, taking care not to overwork the batter — that’s key to keeping your cake tender!

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper and gently grease them. Evenly divide the batter among the pans (an ice cream scoop works wonders here). Tap the pans on the counter a few times to help release any trapped air bubbles. Pop the pans into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, rotating them halfway through if your oven cooks unevenly. They’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Cool the cakes in their pans for about 10 minutes, then flip them onto wire racks to cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the cakes cool, gently toss your sliced strawberries with the strawberry jam. This step elevates the berry flavor and keeps every bite juicy. Set aside about 2 1/2 cups for layering, and reserve an additional half cup (diced) for decorating the top of your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting. If you’d like to include extra whole strawberries around the sides as garnish, wash and dry them now.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until perfectly smooth and lump-free. With your mixer running, gradually pour in the very cold heavy whipping cream. Keep your bowl as cool as possible for dreamy, fluffy peaks! Pause to scrape down the sides here and there, and once all the cream is in, turn the mixer up to high and whip until you reach stiff peaks that hold their shape.

Step 5: Assemble the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a third of your whipped cream frosting over the surface, then scatter with half of the prepared strawberry filling. Add the second layer and repeat — more frosting, more berries! Top it all off with the last cake layer, the rest of your luscious whipped cream, and finish with the reserved diced and whole strawberries arranged beautifully on top. This is where the cake truly transforms into a stunner worthy of every celebration.

How to Serve Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting

Garnishes

For a show-off presentation, nothing beats a crown of whole, glossy strawberries piled high on top — they make your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting look straight out of a bakery window. Try adding a few mint leaves for a pretty touch of green, or dust lightly with powdered sugar for instant elegance.

Side Dishes

Since this cake is refreshingly light, it goes beautifully with simple accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream doubles down on the berry goodness, while a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or a cup of floral tea makes the whole experience extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the cake in wide jars or trifle bowls for picnic-ready portions, or slice it up and serve on vintage dessert plates for an afternoon tea party vibe. You can even cut the cake into squares and serve them cupcake-style — every bite is still a celebration!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra slices (lucky you!), simply cover the cake well and refrigerate. The Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting stays soft and delicious for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered so the whipped cream frosting doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to two months, tightly wrapped in plastic and foil. For best texture, add the whipped cream frosting and strawberry filling after thawing — the cream loses its fluffiness if frozen and thawed.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Just let it sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving to take off the chill and let the flavors shine.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries offer the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen berries in a pinch. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using to avoid soggy cake layers.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely — simply substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt (full fat or 2%) makes an excellent swap for sour cream, keeping your Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting just as moist and flavorful.

How do I tell if the cake is baked through?

Your cake layers are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The edges will also look lightly golden and start to pull away from the pans.

Can I assemble the cake in advance?

Yes! The assembled cake holds up well in the fridge for up to a day. This actually helps the flavors meld together, making every bite even more delicious when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that tastes like pure sunshine, you won’t want to miss out on the Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting. It’s the kind of treat that makes any gathering feel extra joyful and every bite worth savoring. Give it a try, and let this cake become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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