Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a beautiful dessert that combines delicate sponge cake layers with fresh strawberries and creamy mascarpone whipped cream. This Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake recipe takes inspiration from the classic strawberry shortcake but transforms it into an elegant layered cake that is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or summer gatherings. The soft vanilla sponge cake provides a light and airy base, while the macerated strawberries add natural sweetness and juicy flavor. A rich mascarpone whipped cream filling brings everything together with a smooth and creamy texture. When stacked and topped with fresh strawberries, this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake becomes both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
This recipe consists of three main components: vanilla sponge cake, macerated strawberries, and mascarpone whipped cream.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup | Room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | 1¼ cups | Sweetness |
| Eggs | 4 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Flavor |
| All purpose flour | 2 cups | Measured carefully |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | Leavening |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Flavor balance |
| Fresh strawberries | 1–2 cups | Decoration |
| Strawberries | 1½ cups | Sliced for filling |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon | For maceration |
| Vanilla | ½ teaspoon | Flavor |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Cold |
| Mascarpone cheese | 6 ounces | Creamy filling |
| Powdered sugar | ⅔ cup | Sweetener |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Flavor |
Why This Cake Is So Special
The combination of fluffy sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and mascarpone whipped cream creates a light yet indulgent dessert that is perfect for warm weather.
Ingredient Tips
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Measuring flour correctly helps keep the sponge cake light and tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare two 8 inch cake pans with parchment paper and nonstick spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time while mixing, then add vanilla extract.
5. Combine the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
8. Prepare Macerated Strawberries
Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl and allow them to sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
9. Make Mascarpone Whipped Cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Add mascarpone and mix until smooth.
10. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of mascarpone whipped cream.
11. Add Strawberries
Spread the macerated strawberries over the cream layer.
12. Add the Second Cake Layer
Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining whipped cream.
13. Decorate
Decorate the top with fresh strawberries.
14. Serve
Slice and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Helpful Baking Tips
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter.
• Do not overmix the cake batter.
• Allow the cakes to cool completely before layering.
• Use ripe strawberries for best flavor.
• Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner layers.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Serving Ideas
Serve strawberry shortcake layer cake with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing
Cake layers can be frozen before assembling.
Make Ahead
Prepare the sponge cake layers a day ahead and assemble the cake before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is an elegant and delicious dessert that combines fluffy sponge cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy mascarpone filling. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, this cake delivers fresh fruit flavor and beautiful presentation in every slice.
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Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake – Fresh Strawberry Cream Cake
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 10 slices
Description
Strawberry shortcake layer cake made with fluffy vanilla sponge cake, mascarpone whipped cream, and fresh macerated strawberries.
Ingredients
1 cup butter room temperature
1 1/4 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups heavy cream
6 ounces mascarpone
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Fresh strawberries for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare cake pans.
2. Whisk flour baking powder and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time then vanilla.
5. Mix in dry ingredients.
6. Divide batter between pans and bake.
7. Cool cakes completely.
8. Mix sliced strawberries with sugar and vanilla.
9. Beat cream powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
10. Add mascarpone and mix until smooth.
11. Layer cake with whipped cream and strawberries.
12. Top with remaining whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Notes
Measure flour correctly.
Use fresh strawberries for best flavor.
Chill cake before slicing for cleaner layers.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can frozen strawberries be used?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for best flavor and texture.
What is mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone is a creamy Italian cheese often used in desserts.
Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Yes, the cake layers can be baked ahead and assembled later.
How do you keep whipped cream stable?
Mascarpone helps stabilize the whipped cream.