Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake (Sponge Cake) Recipe - the ultimate strawberry indulgence!

Berry Bliss Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

"Layers of light sponge, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream—a dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth!"

There's nothing quite like a Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake to celebrate summer. This Vanilla Strawberry Cake Recipe features a delicate sponge, juicy fresh strawberries, and cloud-like whipped icing. Whether you're a fan of fruit-based cakes or searching for the best cake for strawberry shortcake, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Sponge Cake

This round strawberry cake is:

• Light & Fluffy: The sponge cake base is tender and airy.
• Bursting with Fresh Fruit: Layers of macerated strawberries add natural sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, tea parties, or a sweet weekend treat.
• Customizable: Try adding lemon zest for a Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake variation!

Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe

Makes one 8-inch round strawberry cake (3 layers)

Ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Filling & Topping:

• 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
• 3 cups heavy cream, chilled
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round pans.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (5 mins).
4. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
5. Divide batter evenly into pans. Bake for 22-25 mins. Cool completely.

2. Macerate the Strawberries:

1. Toss sliced strawberries with ¼ cup sugar. Let sit 30 mins to release juices.

3. Make the Whipped Icing:

1. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread with whipped cream and half the strawberries.
2. Repeat with second layer. Top with final cake layer.
3. Frost the entire cake with remaining whipped icing. Decorate with extra strawberries.
4. Chill for 2 hours before serving.

Tips for the Best Cake for Strawberry Shortcake

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold gently to keep the sponge light.
• Chill Your Bowl: For faster whipped icing, freeze your mixing bowl for 10 mins first.
• Variation Idea: Add lemon curd between layers for a Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake twist!

Why This is the Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Sponge Cake

Unlike dense pound cakes, this Strawberry Shortcake Sponge Cake soaks up the strawberry juices without becoming soggy. It’s one of the most beloved cake recipes strawberry shortcake fans adore because:

• The sponge is sturdy enough to hold layers but stays tender.
• The whipped icing balances the sweetness of the berries.
• It’s a showstopping round strawberry cake that’s surprisingly easy to make!

More Fruit-Based Cakes to Try

If you love this Vanilla Strawberry Cake Recipe, explore these other fruit-based cakes:

• Peach Raspberry Layer Cake
• Blueberry Lemon Sponge Cake
• Tropical Mango Coconut Cake

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a timeless dessert that highlights the beauty of fresh strawberries. With its fluffy sponge, lush cream, and juicy berries, it’s no wonder it’s considered the best cake for strawberry shortcake lovers. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with a Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake version, this recipe is sure to impress!

Tag us on social media if you try this recipe! #StrawberryShortcake #BerryBliss