A classic favorite with a fresh, vibrant twist, this Strawberry Shortcake Dessert combines a light, fluffy cake with homemade whipped cream and juicy, sweet strawberries. Every bite of this dessert bursts with flavor, making it the perfect treat for any occasion, from summer picnics to family gatherings. The cake itself is a soft, airy base that pairs beautifully with the whipped cream and fresh strawberries, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

The best part about this Strawberry Shortcake is that it’s not only simple to make but also adaptable. The homemade whipped cream, enhanced with a bit of strawberry puree and fresh chopped strawberries, adds an extra layer of flavor that takes this dessert to the next level. The combination of tender cake, creamy topping, and fruity sweetness will have your taste buds dancing.

Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or just as an indulgent everyday treat, this Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Light and Fluffy Cake

The cake is soft, fluffy, and not too sweet, allowing the strawberries and whipped cream to truly shine.

2. Homemade Whipped Cream

Using homemade whipped cream elevates the dessert, offering a fresh and rich flavor that store-bought versions can’t match.

3. Fresh, Sweet Strawberries

The juicy, ripe strawberries provide natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the creamy whipped topping.

4. Simple to Make

Despite its elegant look, this dessert is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other fruits to the mix, such as raspberries or blueberries, to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Large eggs
Sugar
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Butter
Vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries, diced

For the Homemade Whipped Cream:

Heavy whipping cream
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Strawberry puree (blended fresh strawberries)
Finely chopped strawberries

Variations

Mixed Berries: Add a mix of raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to the strawberries for a colorful and tangy twist.
Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cake batter or whipped cream for a citrusy punch.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free butter substitute, along with coconut cream for the whipped cream.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the whipped cream for a decadent addition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the milk, heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add Strawberries to the Cake Batter

Gently fold the diced strawberries into the cake batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before assembling the dessert.

Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Fold in the strawberry puree and finely chopped strawberries for extra flavor.

Step 7: Assemble the Dessert

Once the cake is completely cool, slice it into squares or individual portions. Top each piece with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream and extra strawberries if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Be sure the cake is completely cooled before adding the whipped cream and strawberries, or the whipped cream may melt.
For the lightest whipped cream, ensure the bowl and beaters are chilled before whipping the cream.
If you prefer a firmer cake, bake it a few extra minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
For added texture, consider layering the whipped cream and strawberries between cake layers for a more traditional shortcake presentation.
If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them well before using.

How to Serve

Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Dessert chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and extra fresh strawberries. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and is perfect for a summer gathering or any time you crave a light, fruity dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake can be kept for up to 2-3 days, but note that the whipped cream may lose some of its texture over time.

Freezing

While the cake itself freezes well, it’s best to freeze it before adding the whipped cream and strawberries. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

If you’d like to reheat the cake, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?

Yes, you can use a store-bought cake mix as a shortcut, but the homemade cake adds a more authentic flavor.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture before adding them to the cake or whipped cream.

3. How can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make the dessert gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

4. Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the whipped cream ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just re-whip it briefly before serving.

5. Can I substitute non-dairy ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy alternatives such as coconut cream for whipped cream and plant-based milk for the cake.

6. How long can the whipped cream last?

Homemade whipped cream is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. It may need to be re-whipped before serving.

7. Can I add more strawberries to the cake batter?

Yes, you can increase the amount of strawberries if you want more fruit flavor throughout the cake.

8. Can I add other fruits to the whipped cream?

You can add a variety of fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to the whipped cream for added flavor and texture.

9. How do I keep the whipped cream from melting?

Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream, and serve the dessert immediately after assembling.

10. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

While store-bought whipped topping works as a substitute, homemade whipped cream adds a richer, fresher taste.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is a timeless treat that combines the best of sweet, fluffy cake, luscious homemade whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just as an everyday indulgence, this dessert will always leave you craving more.