Strawberry Sheet Shortcake Recipe

Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, perfect for gatherings, picnics, or any special occasion. This dessert showcases layers of fluffy vanilla cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, all arranged in a beautiful sheet pan presentation. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and ease of preparation, making it ideal for serving a crowd without the fuss of individual servings. Each bite is a heavenly combination of light, airy cake, juicy strawberries, and creamy frosting, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this scrumptious dessert!

What You’ll Need for making Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

To create a delicious Strawberry Sheet Shortcake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of your cake, providing structure and texture. You will need about two cups of all-purpose flour for the right balance of moisture and fluffiness.
• Granulated Sugar: This ingredient sweetens the cake, adding a delightful flavor. You’ll need about one cup of granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the strawberries.
• Baking Powder: Essential for leavening the cake, helping it rise and become fluffy. Use two teaspoons of baking powder for optimal results.
• Baking Soda: A half teaspoon of baking soda complements the baking powder and aids in leavening, ensuring the cake is light and airy.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt (about a half teaspoon) enhances the sweetness and overall flavor of the cake.
• Unsalted Butter: The fat in the cake adds richness and moisture. You’ll need about half a cup of unsalted butter, softened at room temperature, to create a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Two large eggs are necessary to bind the ingredients together and add richness to the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Use about two teaspoons of pure vanilla extract for flavoring, giving the cake a delightful aroma and taste.
• Milk: You’ll need about one cup of whole milk to provide moisture to the batter, ensuring a soft and tender texture.

For the Strawberry Topping:

• Fresh Strawberries: Approximately four cups of fresh strawberries are required, hulled and sliced. The sweetness of the strawberries is key to the overall flavor of the dessert.
• Granulated Sugar: You’ll need about a quarter cup of granulated sugar to macerate the strawberries, drawing out their juices and enhancing their sweetness.

For the Whipped Cream:

• Heavy Whipping Cream: About one cup of heavy cream will create the base for your whipped topping, providing a rich and creamy texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Use about a quarter cup of powdered sugar to sweeten the whipped cream and add a touch of stability.
• Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract will enhance the flavor of the whipped cream, complementing the cake and strawberries.

How to Make a Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch sheet pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of the cake once it’s baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a quarter cup of granulated sugar. Toss the strawberries gently to coat them in sugar, then set aside for about 15-20 minutes. This process, known as maceration, will draw out the natural juices of the strawberries, creating a delicious syrup that will enhance the flavor of your shortcake.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined. This ensures that the leavening agents and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the remaining sugar (about three-quarters of a cup) until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Use an electric mixer for best results. This step incorporates air into the butter, which is essential for a light cake.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This step adds richness and flavor to the batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with a third of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add half of the milk, mixing again. Repeat this process until all ingredients are combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Sheet Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to avoid overbaking, as this can dry it out.

Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This will take about 3-5 minutes, depending on the speed of your mixer. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can lead to a grainy texture.

Step 11: Assemble the Shortcake
Once the cake is completely cool, cut it into squares or rectangles. Place a piece of cake on a serving plate, top it with a generous spoonful of macerated strawberries (along with some of the syrup), and add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Repeat for each serving, creating individual portions that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Step 12: Serve
Serve the Strawberry Sheet Shortcake immediately, garnished with additional strawberries or mint leaves if desired. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a short time.

Serving and Storage Tips of Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Serving Suggestions:

• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the shortcake in individual glasses, layering the cake, strawberries, and whipped cream for a stunning effect.
• Add a Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce or a berry coulis over the top before serving.
• With Ice Cream: For a more indulgent treat, serve the shortcake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the whipped cream separate until ready to serve to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unassembled cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then top with strawberries and whipped cream before serving.

Mistakes to Avoid while making Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

1. Overmixing the Batter: Be cautious not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake.
2. Not Using Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries may release too much moisture, affecting the final dessert.
3. Skipping the Maceration Step: Allowing the strawberries to macerate enhances their flavor and ensures a juicy topping for the cake.
4. Not Allowing the Cake to Cool Completely: Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding whipped cream and strawberries; otherwise, the toppings may melt or slide off.

Tips and Tricks

• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding lemon zest to the batter for an extra citrusy kick that complements the strawberries.
• Use a Piping Bag: For a more decorative whipped cream topping, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create beautiful swirls on each serving.
• Customize Your Cake: This recipe can easily be adapted by substituting strawberries with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
• Shortcake Base: For a more traditional shortcake flavor, you can replace some of the milk with buttermilk or sour cream in the batter.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Be sure to check the other ingredients for gluten content.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw and drain them before using, but be aware that they may not have the same firmness as fresh ones.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the whipped cream separate to maintain its texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the strawberries and whipped cream just before serving for the best results.

What can I serve with Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
This dessert pairs wonderfully with ice cream, coffee, or tea, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is a fun and delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of strawberries, the lightness of vanilla cake, and the creaminess of whipped cream in one beautifully arranged dish. Its ease of preparation and beautiful presentation make it a perfect addition to any celebration or casual gathering. With the flexibility to customize flavors and serve individual portions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious dessert that captures the essence of fresh strawberries and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones!

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