The Story & Introduction
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and today I’m sharing one of my favorite desserts that brings back sweet memories from my childhood in Crete the Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake. When I was little, my grandmother and I would spend long afternoons in her sunny kitchen, whisking cream and slicing fresh strawberries straight from the garden. The smell of vanilla and the soft hum of laughter always filled the air.
This cake reminds me of those joyful days light, fluffy, and layered with juicy strawberries and soft whipped cream. It’s the kind of dessert that never fails to impress yet feels comforting and homemade. I love how the layers come together tender vanilla sponge, creamy filling, and bursts of fresh strawberries in every bite.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply craving something classic and sweet, this Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a perfect choice. It’s elegant, easy to make, and absolutely delicious — a true showstopper that tastes just like summer in every slice.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make it look stunning. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a cake that looks straight out of a bakery but feels like home.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15–20 minutes until they release their natural juices. This maceration step gives the strawberries a sweet, syrupy flavor that makes the cake extra luscious.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy and light. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip you want the frosting to stay light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process, finishing with whipped cream and more strawberries on top.
Decorate with whole strawberries for a beautiful, natural finish.
Serving & Storage
Serve the cake immediately or chill it for 1–2 hours before slicing for cleaner layers. This Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is best enjoyed fresh when the whipped cream is perfectly soft and the strawberries juicy.
If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld beautifully, making it even more delightful the next day.
Pair each slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat that feels both elegant and comforting.
Conclusion
This Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is more than just a dessert it’s a beautiful reminder that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Every bite tastes like sunshine, love, and home.
From my kitchen in Crete to yours, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, it’s sure to make hearts smile and taste buds dance.
So grab your whisk, pick the juiciest strawberries, and let’s bake some sweet memories together!
Short 100-Word Story Version (for Recipe Card)
Hi, I’m Marilyn, from the island of Crete. This Classic Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake takes me back to sunny afternoons baking with my grandmother. With fluffy vanilla sponge, creamy whipped layers, and fresh strawberries, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and comfort. I love sharing this recipe because it’s simple yet elegant the kind of dessert that makes every occasion feel special. Whether for birthdays, brunches, or cozy evenings, this cake adds a little homemade magic to your day. From my kitchen to yours, enjoy this slice of happiness! 🍓