Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: Light, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Sweet
Indulge in the perfect summer dessert with this Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Recipe. This homemade strawberry shortcake is a delightful blend of light, fluffy cake layers, fresh strawberries, and creamy whipped topping. Perfect for any occasion, this easy strawberry shortcake will become a family favorite. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 12-ounce carton of whipped topping
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, sliced
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, water, and vanilla extract, mixing well. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Quickly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, freeze the cake for about an hour to make slicing easier. Using a large serrated knife, carefully cut the cake horizontally into three even layers. Set aside.
Place one cake layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread a generous layer of whipped topping over it. Arrange sliced strawberries evenly on top. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process, placing it whipped topping side down. Repeat with the final cake layer, whipped topping, and strawberries. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the top of the cake, reserving some for piping rosettes if desired. Use a spoon or fork to create decorative stripes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set. Before serving, cut into squares and garnish each piece with a strawberry half and a rosette of frosting. Enjoy this perfect strawberry shortcake with your loved ones!