Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Food

I absolutely adore making Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. This delightful dessert brings together the lightness of sponge cake, the sweetness of fresh strawberries, and a cloud of whipped cream that makes every bite a heavenly experience. I've experimented with many variations, and this version remains my favorite, as it balances flavors perfectly. It's an ideal treat for gatherings, and the sheet cake format makes it easy to serve and enjoy with friends and family.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:05:33.964Z

When I first tried making Strawberry Shortcake as a sheet cake, I was surprised at how well the flavors translated into this format. I decided to bake a light vanilla cake and layer it with freshly whipped cream and juicy strawberries. The texture and taste exceeded my expectations, and it quickly became a staple at our family gatherings.

One tip I’d recommend is to avoid overmixing the cake batter; this will ensure a light and airy texture. Additionally, using fresh strawberries enhances the natural sweetness, making it even more irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy vanilla cake base
Fresh strawberries give a burst of flavor
Easy to serve and share at gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When making Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, the quality of strawberries significantly influences the flavor of the final dessert. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant, indicating that they're ripe and bursting with juice. If possible, visit a local farmers' market during strawberry season for the freshest options. This can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary as you bite into juicy, sweet berries that contrast beautifully with the cream and cake.

If fresh strawberries aren’t available or out of season, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly before slicing, as excess moisture can make the cake soggy. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter or tangier topping, consider adding a sprinkle of sugar or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the berries' natural flavors.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

For the whipped cream topping, using heavy whipping cream is essential—a lower-fat cream won't whip up as nicely and will yield a less airy texture. When you beat the cream, start on a low setting to avoid splattering, gradually increasing to medium-high until soft peaks form. This will ensure your whipped cream is light and holds a beautiful shape on the cake. Overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture, so keep a close eye on it as you whip.

If you want to make the whipped cream ahead of time, it's best to do so no more than a few hours before serving. You can stabilize the cream by adding a packet of gelatin (dissolved in a bit of warm water) during the whipping process, which helps maintain its shape for longer, especially on a warm day. Alternatively, blending in a small amount of cream cheese can add a luscious texture and stability.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is cool, spread the whipped cream on top. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the cream. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

This cake is perfect for any occasion—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a splash of lemon zest to the whipped cream.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, it's best to store it in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness of the whipped cream and strawberries. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap to avoid any drying out. Ideally, consume the cake within 2 to 3 days, as the whipped cream may begin to deflate and the strawberries can release moisture, compromising the cake’s texture.

To enjoy the cake later, consider slicing it ahead of time. This will make it easier to serve later as you can simply grab a slice without needing to cut into the whole cake. Remember that if you want to freeze it, it's advisable to freeze the cake without the whipped cream and strawberries to keep the texture intact. You can then thaw the cake and top it with fresh toppings just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake experience, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The contrast of temperatures and flavors can create a delightful treat. Additionally, garnishing the cake with mint leaves not only enhances the presentation but adds a refreshing note that complements the strawberries beautifully.

For a twist, experiment with different toppings! You might consider adding a layer of lemon curd beneath the whipped cream for a zesty layer or even different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added color and taste. This flexibility allows you to tailor the cake to different occasions and preferences, keeping it exciting for family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake is best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that is designed for baking.

→ Can I use a different type of fruit?

Absolutely! This cake pairs well with other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or raspberries.