Strawberry Shortcake Tier – Perfect for Summer
Strawberry Shortcake Tier is the quintessential dessert to welcome the warm summer sun! This delightful, layered treat combines fluffy vanilla cake, luscious whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a mouthwatering sensation that's easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Strawberry Shortcake Tier is the quintessential dessert to welcome the warm summer sun! This delightful, layered treat combines fluffy cake, luscious cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a mouthwatering sensation that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Strawberry Shortcake Tier
- Layers of fluffy vanilla cake, making it light and airy.
- Fresh, juicy strawberries bursting with flavor.
- Rich whipped cream that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base for our cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 cup milk – Keeps the cake moist.
- 1 tbsp baking powder – Leavens the cake for a fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – Provide fresh flavor and texture.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream – To make our luscious frosting.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream.
How to Make
To create the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Tier, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It’s important to mix in the vanilla extract now as well. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Once you have a smooth batter, pour it into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Once cooled, slice each layer in half to create four thin layers. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Layer the cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries until all layers are assembled. Finish by frosting the top with more whipped cream and decorating with additional strawberries.
Tips
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of almond extract.
- Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream for better results.
Make-Ahead
Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake Tier can be done in advance. You can bake and cool the cake layers a day ahead, storing them in the refrigerator until you are ready to layer and serve. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully when stored together.
Storing
If you have any leftovers (though they are rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure you keep it well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the individual cake layers before assembling them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
If frozen, allow the layers to come to room temperature before serving, or you can pop them into a warm oven for a few minutes to slightly warm them up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Strawberry Shortcake Tier with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Perfect to enjoy at summer picnics or family barbecues!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
Preheat and cream
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
Mix dry ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add to wet ingredients alternating with milk.
Bake cake layers
Pour batter into greased pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Create four layers
Cool completely, then slice each layer in half to create four layers.
Whip cream
Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Assemble cake
Layer the cake with whipped cream and strawberries, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill the mixing bowl for better cream results.
- Consider adding almond extract for richness.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I bake the shortcake as a single-layer cake instead of a tiered cake?
Yes. Bake in a single pan and adjust the baking time to until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
Yes. Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and whipped coconut cream or other dairy-free whipped cream.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep whipped cream separate if possible and assemble before serving for best texture.
Can I make the layers ahead of time?
Yes. Bake and cool the cake layers up to a day ahead, then chill. Assemble and add whipped cream just before serving.
What can I serve with this Strawberry Shortcake Tier?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce complements the cake nicely.
