Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 3 large eggs; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I’m thrilled to share this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake recipe with you! It perfectly combines the joy of light, fluffy cake with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. I created this cake for a gathering, and it was a huge hit among my friends and family. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want to treat yourself, this cake delivers on flavor and presentation. Trust me, you need this recipe in your repertoire!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-03-05T08:37:55.665Z

When I first attempted this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, I wanted a dessert that was both delightful to the eyes and the palate. The combination of whipped cream and fresh strawberries turns this cake into a summer dream. I recommend using ripe strawberries for the best flavor and juiciness. A bit of vanilla in the whipped cream enhances the cake’s lightness, making each bite a joy!

During my testing, I found that letting the cake chill slightly before serving really helps the flavors meld beautifully. Pairing this delicious cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to another level. Feel free to experiment with other berries for a fun twist!

You'll Love This Because
The light and fluffy cake texture is irresistible.
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color.
Easy to make and perfect for any gathering!

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a light and fluffy cake lies in the balance of ingredients, particularly the butter and eggs. Using room temperature butter ensures it creams well with the sugar, incorporating air for a lighter texture. The eggs also contribute structure and moisture, and using large eggs is crucial for the perfect rise. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute three large eggs with four medium eggs without significant impact on the final product.

Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but aids in creating a beautiful golden crust when baked. Whereas the milk contributes moisture and enhances flavor. For a richer taste, consider using whole milk or even buttermilk, which will add subtle tanginess and help the cake remain tender. Also, keeping all your wet ingredients at room temperature helps achieve an even batter that bakes uniformly.

Technique for Success

When mixing the cake batter, be careful not to overmix after adding the wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a fluffy one, so mix just until combined. You want to see a few lumps; these will disappear during baking. Also, make sure to gently fold the batter into the prepared baking sheet rather than pouring it, which can deflate the bubbles you've created while mixing.

Cooling the cake completely on a wire rack prevents it from becoming soggy. This step is crucial, especially since you'll be adding whipped cream and strawberries on top later. If you’re short on time, you can place the cake in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to expedite cooling, but keep an eye on it to prevent it from freezing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your 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 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
3 large eggs

For the Topping

2 cups heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Make sure to have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful dessert:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12x17 inch baking sheet.

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Whip

Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. In the meantime, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is cool, spread the whipped cream over the top, then layer with fresh strawberries. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the whipped cream. This adds a refreshing twist that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Once assembled, consider adding a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a sprinkle of grated lemon zest to elevate the flavor profile. The acidity from the lemon will enhance the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a refreshing contrast. You can also serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat, especially on warm days.

For a twist on traditional strawberry shortcake, try substituting the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Adjust the sugar in the whipped cream slightly if you choose more tart berries to maintain the sweetness balance.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the whipped cream and strawberries separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the cake from becoming soggy. You can also freeze the unadorned cake for up to two months; simply wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy frozen cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then add fresh whipped cream and strawberries just before serving. This allows for the freshest and most vibrant flavors, making every bite delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just add the whipped cream and strawberries right before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cake is best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen, thaw and drain them well before using.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whipped topping or use a vegan alternative if desired.