There’s nothing like a fresh, homemade strawberry shortcake to celebrate summer. This classic dessert features tender vanilla cake layered with sweet whipped cream, juicy strawberries, and a touch of strawberry jam. Light, fruity, and beautiful to serve—this cake is sunshine on a plate!
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a beach picnic, or just craving something fresh and festive, this easy strawberry shortcake is the showstopper you need.
☀️ Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake
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Bursting with fresh, juicy strawberries
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Rich, buttery vanilla cake made from scratch
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Light whipped cream frosting (no heavy buttercream!)
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Perfect for summer celebrations and gatherings
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Make-ahead friendly and customizable
🍰 Ingredients
For the Cake:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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2 ½ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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1 cup buttermilk
For the Filling & Topping:
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2 cups heavy whipping cream
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¼ cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 ½ cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
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½ cup strawberry jam or glaze
🔪 Instructions
1. Make the Cake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
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Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix!
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Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Whipped Cream
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In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Cake
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
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Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
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Spoon over some strawberry jam or glaze and layer with fresh sliced strawberries.
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Add the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides with more whipped cream.
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Decorate with additional halved or whole strawberries, whipped cream swirls, and a drizzle of jam if desired.
🍓 Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake
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Use ripe, seasonal strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness.
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Don’t overmix the batter—a light hand ensures a soft, tender crumb.
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Chill your bowl and beaters before whipping cream to help it hold peaks.
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Assemble just before serving if you want the cake to stay light and fluffy.
🧊 Storage Notes
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Store the assembled cake in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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For best texture, add fresh berries shortly before serving.
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The cakes can be baked ahead and frozen (unfrosted) for up to 1 month.
🏖️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your summer strawberry shortcake with:
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A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side
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A sunny afternoon and good company!
