Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is a delicious dessert inspired by the classic strawberry shortcake but made in an easy to serve sheet cake form. Instead of biscuit style shortcakes, this version features a soft vanilla cake topped with whipped cream frosting and fresh strawberries. The result is a light and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, and family celebrations. This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake combines fluffy vanilla cake with sweet strawberries and creamy frosting, creating a dessert that feels both simple and elegant. Because it is baked in a 9×13 pan, this cake is ideal for feeding a crowd and is much easier to assemble than layered cakes. Whether you are preparing a dessert for a party or looking for a fruit cake recipe that everyone will enjoy, this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is always a great choice.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
This recipe includes three simple components: a soft vanilla cake, whipped cream frosting, and a fresh strawberry topping.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2½ cups | Cake base |
| Baking powder | 3 teaspoons | Helps cake rise |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Granulated sugar | 1¾ cups | Sweetens cake |
| Vegetable or canola oil | ½ cup | Moist texture |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Egg whites | 2 large | Adds lightness |
| Vanilla extract | 2½ teaspoons | Flavor |
| Almond extract | ½ teaspoon | Optional flavor |
| Sour cream | ⅔ cup | Moist cake crumb |
| Milk | ¾ cup | Whole or 2% |
| Cream cheese | 6 ounces | For frosting |
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetens frosting |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Frosting flavor |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1½ cups | Whipped frosting |
| Fresh strawberries | 5 cups | Sliced |
| Strawberry jam | 2 tablespoons | Enhances topping |
Why Sheet Cakes Are Perfect for Parties
Sheet cakes are easier to serve and transport than layered cakes. Baking the cake in a single pan also keeps the dessert simple while still providing plenty of servings.
Ingredient Tips
Room temperature eggs help create a smoother batter and better cake texture. Sour cream adds richness and moisture to the vanilla cake base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch metal baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat sugar, oil, eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
4. Add Sour Cream
Mix the sour cream into the batter until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Batter
Add half of the flour mixture and mix until just combined. While mixing slowly pour in the milk, then add the remaining flour mixture.
6. Transfer Batter
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
7. Bake the Cake
Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
8. Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while mixing, then increase speed and whip until stiff peaks form.
9. Frost the Cake
Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly across the cooled cake.
10. Add Strawberry Topping
Mix sliced strawberries with strawberry jam and spoon them over the cake just before serving.
Helpful Baking Tips
• Do not overmix the cake batter to keep the cake soft.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
• Add the strawberries just before serving to prevent excess moisture.
• Use fresh ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• Chill the cake briefly for easier slicing.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Serving Ideas
This strawberry shortcake sheet cake is best served chilled or slightly cool with plenty of fresh strawberry topping. It pairs well with iced tea, lemonade, or coffee.
Storage
Store leftover cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days.
Freezing
The unfrosted cake can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw before adding frosting and strawberries.
Make Ahead
The cake and frosting can be prepared ahead of time. Add the strawberry topping shortly before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is a simple yet beautiful dessert that captures the flavor of classic strawberry shortcake in an easy to serve cake format. The combination of soft vanilla cake, creamy whipped frosting, and sweet strawberries makes it the perfect summer dessert. Because it is easy to prepare and serves many people, this recipe is ideal for parties, family gatherings, and celebrations.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake – Easy Vanilla Strawberry Cake
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Strawberry shortcake sheet cake made with fluffy vanilla cake, whipped cream frosting, and fresh strawberries. A perfect dessert for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 large egg whites
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2/3 cup sour cream
3/4 cup milk
6 ounces cream cheese
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
5 cups sliced strawberries
2 tablespoons strawberry jam
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Whisk flour baking powder and salt in a bowl.
3. Beat sugar oil eggs egg whites and extracts until combined.
4. Mix in sour cream.
5. Add half the flour mixture then milk then remaining flour mixture.
6. Pour batter into pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool the cake completely.
9. Beat cream cheese powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
10. Slowly add heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.
11. Spread frosting on the cooled cake.
12. Mix strawberries with jam and spoon over cake before serving.
Notes
Allow cake to cool before frosting.
Add strawberries just before serving.
Store cake in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can strawberry shortcake sheet cake be made ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the cake and frosting ahead and add strawberries just before serving.
Why add egg whites to the cake batter?
Egg whites help create a lighter, fluffier cake texture.
Can frozen strawberries be used?
Fresh strawberries are best, but thawed frozen strawberries can work if drained well.
How should strawberry sheet cake be stored?
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator to keep the whipped frosting fresh.