The moment you take a bite of Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, your taste buds will dance with joy. This delightful dessert features soft, fluffy layers of cake topped with sweet strawberries and creamy whipped frosting that will make you feel like you’re on cloud nine.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around, laughter filling the air as you present this show-stopping cake. The aroma wafts through the room, drawing everyone in like a moth to a flame. It’s perfect for picnics, birthdays, or just because you want to indulge in some sweetness!
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
- This incredible Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
Last summer, I made this strawberry shortcake sheet cake for my niece’s birthday party. The look on her face when she took that first bite was priceless—pure bliss!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for a light and fluffy cake texture that rises beautifully.
- Granulated Sugar: Use this to sweeten the cake; it helps create a moist crumb and balances flavors.
- Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh to ensure your cake rises perfectly and doesn’t turn out flat.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy mixing; it adds richness to the cake.
- Eggs: Large eggs work best; they help bind ingredients together while adding moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Real vanilla extract elevates flavor; avoid imitation if possible for the best taste.
- Milk: Whole milk keeps the cake moist and contributes to its tender crumb.
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; they’ll be the star of your dessert!
- Whipped Cream: Freshly whipped cream is essential for topping; it adds a lightness that complements the cake perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined; this ensures an even distribution of leavening agents.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter until smooth before gradually adding sugar until light and fluffy; this process incorporates air into the batter.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract and milk until fully combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using gentle strokes; be careful not to overmix! You want it light and airy.
Bake Your Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown; you’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean.
Create Whipped Cream Topping: While your cake cools, whip heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Add sugar slowly while beating until stiff peaks develop.
Add Strawberries: Prepare fresh strawberries by washing them thoroughly and slicing them thinly; sprinkle with sugar to draw out their juices while waiting for assembly.
Once cooled completely, spread whipped cream on top of your cake generously. Layer sliced strawberries over it artistically—let those vibrant colors shine!
Now step back and admire your creation before diving in! Each bite will transport you straight to strawberry heaven—a perfect balance of sweet strawberries against fluffy cake and silky cream awaits!
This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration in itself! Whether it’s summer barbecues or cozy family gatherings, this recipe brings smiles all around. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know About Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
- This showstopping Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake first, allowing it to cool completely while preparing the strawberries and whipped cream. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and ready for assembly, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a twist on flavor. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra depth in taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best texture, avoid freezing as it may alter the cake’s lightness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
- This professional-quality Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
It was during my niece’s birthday party when I first made this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake. Everyone raved about it, and she declared it her “most favorite cake ever.” That moment solidified my love for this delightful dessert!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can work well in this recipe, but make sure to thaw them first and drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess in your cake layers.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready! Be careful not to overbake.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just assemble with strawberries and whipped cream on serving day for optimal freshness.
What’s the best way to whip cream?
To achieve fluffy whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. Start on low speed and gradually increase until soft peaks form—don’t walk away; it’s easy to overwhip!
Conclusion for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
In summary, this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is perfect for any occasion, combining simplicity with elegance. Follow key tips like proper ingredient prep and layering flavors to ensure success in your baking adventure. Don’t forget that personal touches make every dessert special—enjoy making this delightful treat that will surely impress family and friends!
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this show-stopping treat will impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavors. Whether it’s a picnic, birthday, or simply a sweet indulgence, this cake brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream softened butter until smooth; gradually add sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and milk.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form; add sugar gradually until stiff peaks develop.
- Layer whipped cream on cooled cake and top with sliced strawberries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (105g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
