Easy Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Name: Easy 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 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I absolutely adore this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake! It’s a delightful dessert that combines fluffy vanilla cake with ripe, juicy strawberries and a rich whipped cream topping. Every bite is a burst of fresh flavor, and I love how it transports me to sunny picnics and summer gatherings. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is surprisingly easy to make, which is a huge bonus for busy days. The vibrant colors and moist texture will surely impress my family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for many celebrations.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-24T08:25:37.195Z

When I first made this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, I was amazed by how effortlessly it came together. The cake is light and airy, perfectly complementing the sweetness of ripe strawberries. To ensure the cake stays moist, I recommend using fresh strawberries, as their natural juices soak into the cake without making it too soggy.

One little tip I discovered is to layer the whipped cream generously, as it creates a delightful contrast with the cake's fluffiness. This combination makes it not just a dessert, but a slice of summer on a plate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fluffy cake layers that absorb strawberry juice delightfully
Easy to prepare, perfect for bakers of all skill levels
Perfect for summer parties, barbecues, or family gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this Easy Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures that each bite is bursting with natural sweetness. If strawberries are out of season, you can swap them for other berries like blueberries or raspberries, although they will provide a different flavor profile. For the cake, utilizing high-quality butter adds richness and moisture, making the cake even fluffier. Always remember to soften the butter at room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar.

Granulated sugar sweetens the cake while also helping to create its tender crumb structure. The baking powder is crucial as it provides the leavening needed for the cake to rise beautifully. Make sure to check the expiration date on your baking powder—using stale baking powder can lead to a dense cake. To enhance the vanilla flavor, consider using pure vanilla extract rather than imitation; it truly makes a difference in the overall taste of the cake.

Baking and Assembling Tips

When mixing the dry ingredients, it's important to whisk them thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Avoid over-mixing once you add the wet ingredients; stop as soon as everything is combined. Over-mixing can lead to a tough texture, which we definitely want to avoid. As for baking time, ovens can vary; check your cake a minute or two before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, your cake is done. Look for a golden top and edges for visual confirmation.

For assembling, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and sliding off. When layering the whipped cream and strawberries, feel free to be generous! The luscious creaminess complements the tartness of the strawberries and elevates your cake to the next level. For an added twist, consider drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or adding a sprinkle of lemon zest between the layers for a citrusy kick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create an amazing dessert!

For the Cake

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

For the Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have all your ingredients ready, we can start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cake!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Strawberries

While the cake is baking, combine the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit to release their juices.

Make Whipped Cream

In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, top with strawberries, and then more whipped cream.

Serve

Slice into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy your cake!

Now you're ready to enjoy your homemade Strawberry Shortcake!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavors, let the strawberries macerate for at least 30 minutes to draw out their juices.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy hosts. Once baked, cool the cake completely and store it tightly covered at room temperature for one day. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake; wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, frost with whipped cream and strawberries just before serving to ensure freshness.

It’s best to store any leftover cake in the refrigerator due to the whipped cream topping. Cover it gently with plastic wrap to avoid the cream crusting over. Consume within three days for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer, consider separating the whipped cream from the cake when storing, which helps preserve their individual textures.

Flavor Variations

While the strawberry flavor is classic and beloved, this cake is versatile. You can easily switch out the strawberries for other favorite fruits like peaches or cherries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit, as some may require more or less than the 2 tablespoons used for strawberries. For a tropical variation, consider adding diced pineapples with a hint of coconut extract in the whipped cream for an island-inspired twist.

Another fun variation to explore is adding flavor to the cake batter. Experiment by mixing in a tablespoon of lemon zest or a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Layering with different flavored whipped creams, such as almond or coconut, can elevate the presentation and taste for special gatherings. Be adventurous with your toppings; crushed cookies or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can also add delightful crunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

It's best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best enjoyed within 2-3 days.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and assemble it right before serving.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.