Close your eyes and imagine sinking your fork into a soft, buttery shortcake layered with sweet, juicy strawberries and clouds of whipped cream. This Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is pure dessert bliss—a recipe that promises smiles at every bite and a table filled with happy, sticky fingers.
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Strawberry Sheet Shortcake – A Sweet Slice of Heaven
This Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is a soft, buttery cake baked in a sheet pan, topped with juicy, sweet strawberries and clouds of whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or anytime you crave a light and fruity dessert to share with friends and family.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
Ingredients
1½ lb (680 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup granulated sugar (divided: ¾ cup for strawberries, ¼ cup for batter)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp kosher salt
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Extra fresh strawberry slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Strawberries: In a bowl, mix strawberries with ¾ cup sugar and let them sit for 30 minutes to release juices.
- Prepare the Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan. Cream butter and remaining sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing gently. Fold in the macerated strawberries.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
- Whip the Topping: In a chilled bowl, whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled cake.
- Serve: Top with extra fresh strawberries, slice into squares, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Classic
- Diet: Vegetarian
About the Recipe
This isn’t just any strawberry cake—it’s a sheet-pan twist on the classic shortcake. Perfect for gatherings, it combines a light, tender base with fresh strawberries and cream, making it ideal for birthdays, picnics, or any time you need a dessert that wows with minimal fuss.
- Flavor: Sweet, fruity, creamy, and comforting.
- Occasions: Family dinners, summer barbecues, potlucks, or a weekend treat.
- Effort Level: Simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to feel special.
Origins & Cultural Significance
Strawberry shortcake has been a beloved dessert for centuries, dating back to 16th-century England where biscuits were topped with sweet cream and berries. Over time, the American version evolved, using sponge cakes or soft biscuits layered with strawberries and whipped cream. The sheet cake adaptation takes this tradition and makes it shareable and convenient, ideal for feeding a crowd without compromising on flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Classic Style: Serve chilled with extra strawberries on top and a drizzle of fresh cream.
- Family-Friendly Twist: Add a layer of vanilla pudding between cake and strawberries for extra creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom into the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of honey instead of whipped cream.
- Celebration Upgrade: Decorate with colorful berries and mint leaves for a festive touch.
FAQs
1️⃣ Can I make Strawberry Sheet Shortcake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake the day before, keep it covered, and add strawberries and cream just before serving for the freshest taste.
2️⃣ Can I use frozen strawberries?
You can, but fresh strawberries give the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid first.
3️⃣ How do I keep the cake from becoming soggy?
Let the strawberries release their juice separately before assembling, or layer them on top just before serving.
4️⃣ Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—swap butter for plant-based margarine and use coconut whipped cream for a delicious vegan version.
5️⃣ What’s the difference between a sheet shortcake and a layered shortcake?
The sheet version is baked in one pan and served in squares, making it simpler and more casual compared to individually stacked shortcakes.
Chef’s Tip – Make It Extra Special
- Brush the warm cake with a thin layer of strawberry jam before adding whipped cream for a flavor boost.
- For a bakery-style finish, top with powdered sugar or crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Sheet Shortcake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory waiting to happen. Each bite is soft, creamy, and bursting with strawberry goodness, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the scent of strawberries and warm cake—you won’t regret it!