Easy Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe 2025

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There’s something undeniably delightful about a classic dessert that combines fresh strawberries, fluffy cake, and luscious cream—this is exactly what the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake brings to your table. This recipe takes the beloved flavors of traditional strawberry shortcake and elevates them into an elegant, multi-layered cake that’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a special treat any time of year.

The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake perfectly balances the light sweetness of vanilla sponge cake with juicy, ripe strawberries and smooth whipped cream frosting. Each layer is moist and tender, infused with subtle vanilla notes, while the strawberries add bursts of freshness and a slight tartness that complements the creamy frosting beautifully. The combination is timeless and irresistible, making it one of the most cherished dessert recipes in the U.S. and beyond.

What makes this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake particularly special is the careful layering that builds height and depth in every slice. Instead of just piling strawberries on a shortcake biscuit, this cake blends textures and flavors in an artful way. From the soft cake layers to the luscious cream and the juicy strawberry filling, every bite offers a harmonious experience of sweetness and freshness.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. With the right ingredients and techniques, your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake will come out moist, fluffy, and bursting with strawberry flavor that will impress family and friends alike.

In this article, you will find everything you need to create this classic dessert: a detailed list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for storage and serving, common mistakes to avoid, and creative suggestions to customize your cake. Get ready to bring the bright, summery taste of strawberries to your kitchen with this stunning Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.

What You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake starts with having all the right ingredients on hand. The key to a beautifully textured cake with vibrant flavor lies in the quality and freshness of each component. Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to make this cake, along with some helpful notes about selecting your ingredients for the best results.

Cake Ingredients:

2¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure; make sure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
2½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and become light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Assists with leavening, contributing to a tender crumb.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Use quality butter for rich flavor and moist crumb.
1¾ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture.
4 large eggs, room temperature: For structure and moisture; room temp eggs blend better.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the strawberries.
1 cup whole milk, room temperature: Provides moisture and helps activate the leavening agents.
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Adds tenderness and moisture to the cake layers.

Filling and Frosting Ingredients:

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Use ripe, firm berries for maximum flavor and beautiful presentation.
¾ cup granulated sugar (divided): To macerate the strawberries and sweeten the whipped cream.
3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold: Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy frosting that balances the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cream’s flavor, pairing perfectly with the strawberries.
Optional: 2 tablespoons strawberry jam: For extra fruity sweetness between layers.

Essential Tools:

3 (8-inch) round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
Cooling racks
Serrated knife (for leveling cake layers if needed)

By using fresh strawberries and quality dairy products, your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake will achieve the bright, fresh flavor and tender crumb that defines this dessert. This recipe relies on simple, classic ingredients—nothing fancy or hard to find—making it perfect for any home baker ready to impress.

Don’t miss our full cake collection with recipes like Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake.

How to Make (Include Full Measurements)

Creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a rewarding process that combines simple ingredients with precise steps to achieve a moist, flavorful cake layered with luscious strawberries and whipped cream. Follow this step-by-step guide to bake your cake flawlessly.

Preparing the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles for easier removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1¾ cups granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
Add 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
In a separate small bowl, combine 1 cup whole milk and ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt.
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk mixture to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition to avoid overmixing.

Baking the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing the Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting

While the cake cools, combine 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries with ½ cup of the granulated sugar in a bowl. Let the strawberries macerate for at least 30 minutes to release their juices and sweeten.
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat 3 cups cold heavy whipping cream with ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract on high speed until soft peaks form.

Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Level each cake layer if needed using a serrated knife.
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the cake, then spoon a portion of the macerated strawberries and some of their juices on top.
Repeat with the second cake layer, whipped cream, and strawberries.
Place the third cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
Decorate the top with whole strawberries or additional sliced berries for a beautiful finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving and storing your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake properly ensures it remains fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing. Here are some expert tips to help you enjoy every slice at its best.

Serving Tips

Serve your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake chilled or at room temperature. This allows the flavors of the fresh strawberries and whipped cream to shine.
Use a sharp serrated knife dipped in hot water before slicing to make clean, neat cuts without squashing the layers.
Pair with a simple garnish like a sprig of fresh mint, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for extra flair.
For a party, consider serving individual slices with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a few fresh berries on the side.

Storage Tips

The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake contains fresh whipped cream and fruit, so refrigeration is essential. Store it in an airtight container or cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the cake from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. The whipped cream and strawberries can start to break down after this time.
To keep the cake from getting soggy, avoid storing it for too long before serving.

Freezing Tips

While the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
Thaw the layers completely at room temperature before assembling and frosting.
Avoid freezing the fully assembled cake as the whipped cream and strawberries do not freeze well and may separate upon thawing.

Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a beautiful and delicious Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake can seem simple, but there are several common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Knowing what pitfalls to avoid will save you time and frustration, and help you achieve a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and visually stunning every time.

1. Using Unripe or Watery Strawberries

The star of the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is the fresh strawberry filling, so quality matters. Using underripe or watery strawberries can result in a bland or soggy cake. Choose firm, ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. If your strawberries are very juicy, macerate them but drain excess liquid to prevent the cake layers from becoming soggy.

2. Overmixing the Cake Batter

Overmixing the batter can develop gluten and make your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake dense and tough instead of light and tender. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix only until everything is just incorporated. A few lumps are okay.

3. Skipping the Cooling Step

As tempting as it is to assemble the cake immediately, never frost the cake layers while they are still warm. Warm cake will melt the whipped cream frosting and cause the layers to slide or become messy. Cool each layer completely on wire racks before assembling.

4. Not Stabilizing the Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is delicate and can deflate or separate if not handled properly. To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake looking fresh, whip the cream until stiff peaks form and consider adding a small amount of powdered sugar or cream stabilizer to help it hold its shape longer, especially if the cake needs to stand for several hours.

5. Using Too Much Filling

While the strawberries are delicious, using too much filling can cause the cake layers to slide or the cake to become unstable. Spread an even, moderate layer of strawberries and whipped cream to maintain structure and balance.

6. Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold eggs, butter, or dairy can cause the batter to curdle or not mix evenly, resulting in uneven texture. For the best Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Tips and Tricks

Baking a flawless Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is easier with a few insider tips and creative tricks that elevate this classic dessert from great to extraordinary.

1. Macerate Strawberries for Maximum Flavor

Allow your strawberries to macerate with sugar for at least 30 minutes. This draws out their natural juices and enhances their sweetness, giving your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake a juicy, flavorful filling.

2. Use Stabilized Whipped Cream

To prevent the whipped cream from weeping or losing volume, consider stabilizing it with gelatin or cream of tartar. This is especially helpful if the cake will be stored or served several hours after frosting.

3. Layer with Care

For even layers, use a serrated knife to level your cake rounds if they domed during baking. This creates a smooth surface, making stacking easier and your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake more professional-looking.

4. Chill the Cake Before Serving

After assembling and frosting, refrigerate your cake for at least an hour. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the frosting to set, making the cake easier to slice and serve.

5. Experiment with Flavored Whipped Cream

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream to complement the strawberry flavor and add depth to your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.

6. Use Fresh, Seasonal Strawberries

Whenever possible, use strawberries in season. They have better flavor and texture than off-season berries and will greatly improve your cake.

Suggestions

The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a wonderfully versatile dessert that invites creativity and personalization. While the classic version is a crowd-pleaser, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit different tastes, occasions, and dietary needs. Below are some suggestions to inspire you to make this cake your own.

1. Try Different Berries or Fruit Combinations

Though strawberries are the star in the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, you can experiment with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Mixing these fruits adds variety in flavor and color, giving your cake a unique twist while maintaining that fresh, fruity essence.

2. Add a Layer of Jam or Fruit Preserve

For added sweetness and depth, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam or your favorite fruit preserve between the cake layers before adding the whipped cream and fresh berries. This enhances the fruitiness and keeps the layers moist and flavorful.

3. Make a Vegan or Dairy-Free Version

If you prefer a vegan or dairy-free option, swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk and vegan butter for the cake. For the whipped cream, coconut cream whipped with a bit of powdered sugar makes a fantastic dairy-free frosting that pairs beautifully with the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.

4. Incorporate Lemon or Citrus Zest

Brighten the cake layers or the whipped cream frosting by adding lemon or orange zest. This citrus note complements the strawberries beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor complexity to your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.

5. Use Different Cake Bases

While the classic vanilla sponge is traditional, feel free to try a chiffon cake or even a light pound cake base. Each brings a slightly different texture and flavor that can refresh the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake experience.

6. Personalize the Decoration

Beyond the usual fresh strawberries on top, consider decorating your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake with edible flowers, toasted coconut flakes, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a stunning presentation.

These suggestions make the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake adaptable for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, ensuring it fits perfectly with your celebration style.

FAQ

When baking and enjoying the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, it’s natural to have questions. Below are some frequently asked questions to help clarify common concerns and make your baking experience easier.

Q1: Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature or in the fridge. Assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the freshest results.

Q2: How do I keep the whipped cream from melting?

Use cold heavy cream and chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping. Also, consider stabilizing your whipped cream with a small amount of powdered sugar or gelatin to help it hold its shape longer, especially if your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake will sit out for a while.

Q3: Can I freeze the assembled cake?

It’s best not to freeze the fully assembled Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake due to the fresh fruit and whipped cream. However, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting and assembling.

Q4: What can I substitute for sour cream in the cake?

Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It provides similar moisture and tanginess that help make the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake tender and flavorful.

Q5: How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Drain excess liquid from the macerated strawberries before adding them to the cake layers. Also, avoid adding too much fruit filling between layers and assemble the cake close to serving time.

Q6: Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but if using frozen, thaw them fully and drain any extra juice before using to prevent sogginess in the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a timeless dessert that brings together the perfect combination of moist vanilla cake, fresh juicy strawberries, and light, fluffy whipped cream. This cake captures the essence of summer and celebration in every bite, making it a favorite for birthdays, holidays, and any special occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence.

Baking this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake at home allows you to enjoy the freshest ingredients and customize it exactly to your taste. From the tender cake layers to the sweet, macerated strawberries and silky cream, every component works in harmony to create a dessert that’s both elegant and approachable.

Throughout this recipe, you’ve learned how to gather the best ingredients, mix the batter perfectly, prepare the luscious filling, and assemble the cake with care. You’ve also discovered valuable tips, common mistakes to avoid, and creative suggestions to make this classic cake uniquely yours.

Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing guests, the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake never disappoints. Its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and irresistible texture make it a standout dessert that brings joy and sweetness to any table.

So, gather your fresh strawberries, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that celebrates the simple pleasures of life with every delicious slice of the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake.