Summertime gatherings call for a dessert that’s as delightful as it is easy to serve. Enter the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake – a crowd-pleasing twist on a classic favorite. This moist and fruity sheet cake, topped with whipped cream frosting and fresh strawberries, is a surefire way to sweeten any summer celebration.
Sheet cakes are the unsung heroes of the dessert world – simple, convenient, and always a hit. With a blend of light vanilla cake, juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream, this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake offers the perfect balance of flavors for a satisfying treat. Plus, with the help of a boxed cake mix, this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it a go-to option for hosting gatherings without the fuss.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake requires a blend of key ingredients to achieve that moist and fruity delight.
Cake Base
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, 2 sticks)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 pounds strawberries (washed and sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust according to berry sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Chamomile flowers (optional)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
For the Cake:
- 13×9-inch rimmed baking sheet
- Baking spray with flour
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry blender or 2 forks
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Wire rack
- Mixer
- Medium bowl
- Spoon
- Basting brush
- Baking/pastry brush
Having the right equipment is essential when making this delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake. Ensure you have all the necessary tools ready before starting to make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Preparation
To ensure a successful baking process, prepping the baking pan and slicing the strawberries are crucial steps that need attention to detail and proper execution.
Prepping the Baking Pan
- Use a 13×9-inch rimmed baking sheet for the sheet cake.
- Prepare the baking sheet by spraying it with baking spray with flour and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Wash and hull 2 pounds of fresh strawberries for the topping.
- Slice the strawberries lengthwise and toss them in sugar and a bit of fresh lemon juice.
- The sweetened strawberries will add a burst of flavor to the sheet cake, complementing the creaminess of the frosting.
Directions
When making the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, follow these simple steps to create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Making the Cake Base
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and spray a 13×9-inch rimmed baking sheet with baking spray with flour.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar, then cut in the cold butter until crumbly.
- Stir in cold buttermilk and vanilla until just combined and spoon the dough onto the prepared pan.
- Press the dough into an even layer and brush with buttermilk, then sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake until golden brown, approximately 16 to 18 minutes, and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Preparing the Strawberry Topping
- In a medium bowl, stir together sliced strawberries and vanilla, letting them sit for 15 minutes.
- Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the flavors and set it aside for assembly.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the heated strawberry preserves.
- The cream should be fluffy and lightly sweetened, ready to top the strawberry shortcake.
- Assemble the cake by spreading whipped cream over the cooled shortcake base and topping it with the macerated strawberries. Serve immediately for the best results.
Assembly
Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is where the magic happens. Layering the cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries creates a stunning and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Layering the Cake
- Start by allowing the shortcake to cool completely after baking.
- Once cooled, generously spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake to create a smooth and fluffy layer.
- Carefully arrange the macerated strawberries on top of the whipped cream, evenly distributing them for a beautiful presentation.
- For extra strawberry flavor, you can lightly drizzle any remaining strawberry juice from the macerated strawberries over the top of the cake for added moisture.
- Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake immediately to enjoy the full freshness of the strawberries and cream. Experience the burst of flavors with every bite!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to storing this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, I have a few tips to ensure it stays fresh and delicious for longer. Whether you want to make it in advance for a special occasion or save leftovers for later, proper storage is key to preserving its flavors.
Refrigeration Directions
To refrigerate the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, cover it loosely with plastic wrap to protect it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge. Ensure that the cake is fully cooled before storing it in the refrigerator. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, maintaining its freshness and taste.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
If you wish to freeze the Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, it’s best to do so before adding the whipped cream and fresh fruit toppings. Allow the cake to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Frozen, the cake can last for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can add the whipped cream and fresh strawberry toppings to revive its original flavors and textures. This way, you can have a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Conclusion
Creating a Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is a delightful way to impress guests with minimal effort. This summer dessert offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can enjoy a moist and flavorful cake topped with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Remember to store any leftovers properly to maintain the cake’s quality for future indulgence. Whether it’s a family gathering or a special occasion, this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite.