Description
Strawberry Shortcake is a classic American dessert traditionally made with:
- strawberries,
- whipped cream,
- and soft cake or biscuits.
Modern versions often use fluffy vanilla cake layers because they create a lighter texture that pairs beautifully with fresh strawberries.
The combination of juicy fruit, cream, and soft cake makes this dessert especially popular during spring and summer.
Ingredients
Ingredients for The Best Strawberry Shortcake
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Filling
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Mix gently and let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes.
This helps release the natural juices and creates that classic sweet strawberry filling.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease two round cake pans.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time.
Mix in vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Slowly alternate adding dry ingredients and milk into the batter.
Mix until smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
The warm vanilla smell during baking honestly makes the kitchen feel incredible.
In a cold mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
The whipped cream should look fluffy and smooth.
Place the first cake layer onto a serving plate.
Spread whipped cream evenly across the top.
Add a generous layer of strawberries and strawberry juices.
Place the second cake layer on top.
Finish with more whipped cream and fresh strawberries.