The sweet aroma of freshly baked shortcake wafts through the air, making your heart flutter like a butterfly on a warm summer day. Picture this: a golden sheet of pillowy cake topped with juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream that makes you want to dive right in face-first. That’s the joy of strawberry sheet shortcake—it’s not just a treat; it’s an experience worth savoring.
I remember the first time I made this delightful dessert for a backyard barbecue. My friends stood around the table like hungry hawks, eyes gleaming at the sight of my creation. The laughter and joy that followed with every sticky-fingered bite made me feel like a culinary rockstar. Trust me when I say this sweet concoction is perfect for any occasion—picnics, birthdays, or just because it’s Tuesday!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This strawberry sheet shortcake offers effortless preparation while delivering maximum flavor
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, and it is versatile enough to customize with different fruits
- Plus, it brings people together in joyful celebration!
I once served this strawberry sheet shortcake at my family reunion, and let’s just say it vanished faster than you can say “seconds.” Everyone left with happy bellies and sweet smiles!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake; choose high-quality flour for the best texture.
- Baking Powder: This will give our cake that lovely lift; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key here; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easier mixing; it adds rich flavor.
- Eggs: They’ll bring everything together beautifully; use large eggs for best results.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the cake its moistness; low-fat works too if you’re watching calories.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of our show! Choose ripe berries for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For luscious whipped topping; you can add sugar or vanilla extract if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined. This creates the base for our soft cake.
Cut in the unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until you achieve coarse crumbs resembling sandcastles—trust me; it’s a fun part!
Add in eggs and milk gradually while stirring until just combined. You want to see some lumps—this keeps our cake airy!
Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet evenly and smooth out the top gently with a spatula. It should look like a golden sea waiting to be baked!
Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this wait—it’s pure torture but so worth it!
While the cake cools slightly on a wire rack, prepare those luscious strawberries by hulling them and slicing them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a sprinkle of sugar if you prefer extra sweetness—the choice is yours!
Finally, whip up that heavy cream until soft peaks form. Spread that fluffy goodness over the cooled cake generously before piling on those bright strawberries like they’re confetti at a parade!
Serve slices immediately because trust me—this beauty won’t last long on any table!
There you have it—a delightful strawberry sheet shortcake that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up! Your friends will think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen when really, you just basked in sweet strawberry bliss! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Strawberry Sheet Shortcake brings summer to your kitchen, filling the air with sweet aromas
- The fluffy layers of cake and juicy strawberries create a mouthwatering experience
- It’s easy to prepare and ideal for gatherings, making it a go-to dessert for sunny days
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the batter while it warms up. Mix the wet ingredients first, then gently fold in the dry ones to keep that fluffiness alive.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. A splash of vanilla or almond extract can elevate flavor, adding a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy chilled or allow it to come back to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfect Strawberry Sheet Shortcake, use fresh strawberries at peak ripeness for sweetness
- Always let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
- Consider a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving for an elegant finish
Sometimes, I whip this up for friends, and their smiles say it all—nothing beats sharing sweet moments over dessert!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess.
How do I make my sheet cake fluffier?
Ensure you don’t over-mix the batter; gentle folding keeps air in.
What’s the best way to serve Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
Serve it chilled with whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in a slice of summer bliss with this easy Strawberry Sheet Shortcake, featuring a fluffy cake layered with juicy strawberries and rich whipped cream. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any day!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add eggs and milk, stirring until just combined (some lumps are okay).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and smooth out.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before topping with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
