Introduction
What happens when summer’s favorite dessert gets a bakery-style makeover?You get Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake—a light, fruity, showstopper dessert layered with whipped cream, vanilla sponge, and juicy strawberries.
With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, it’s perfect for birthdays, brunches, or backyard barbecues. If you love fruity bakes like our Strawberry Yogurt Muffins, this one’s going to win your heart.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
For the Cake:
2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
For the Filling & Frosting:
2 ½ cups (400g) fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tbsp sugar (to macerate berries)
2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
½ cup strawberry jam (optional, for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Preheat & Prep Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round pans.
Make the Batter
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar. Mix in the eggs gradually—one at a time—followed by the vanilla for a smooth batter. Alternate dry mix and milk until just combined.
Bake the Cakes
Divide batter evenly. Bake 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Macerate Strawberries
Toss berries with sugar. Let sit 15–30 minutes until juicy.
Whip the Cream
Chill bowl and beaters. Whip cream, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Assemble
Layer cake + whipped cream + macerated berries (and jam, if using). Repeat. Top with extra berries and cream.
Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy chilled!
Pairings
- Earl Grey Iced Tea
- Sparkling Rosé
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
- Minted Cucumber Salad
- Berry Lemonade
Pro Tips for Cake Success
- Use room temp ingredients for even mixing.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the sponge soft.
- Fully cool cakes before adding whipped cream.
- Trim domed cake tops for smooth stacking.
- Chill your mixing bowl to help cream whip faster.
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
What kind of cake is used for strawberry shortcake?
Typically, a light vanilla sponge or butter cake is used in strawberry shortcake layer cake for a fluffy but sturdy structure.
What makes shortcake different from regular cake?
Shortcake is denser and more biscuit-like, made with more fat and less sugar, whereas this version uses airy cake layers.
What is another name for strawberry cake?
It may also be referred to as strawberry cream cake, berry torte, or fraisier cake in more elegant versions.
What kind of frosting for strawberry shortcake?
Whipped cream frosting is classic. It’s light, airy, and lets the strawberries shine.
What is the fancy name for strawberry shortcake?
In upscale settings, it’s often called Fraisier Cake, especially if it includes pastry cream.
Why do they call it strawberry shortcake?
“Shortcake” refers to a crumbly texture due to fat (like butter or shortening) used in traditional recipes. Add strawberries, and it becomes a fruity treat.
