Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp lemon zest

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I’ve always been enamored with the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake, but I wanted to create a more accessible version that can serve a crowd. This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake beautifully pairs fluffy vanilla cake with luscious strawberries and whipped cream. The best part? It's straightforward enough to whip up on a whim, making it an ideal dessert for family gatherings or potlucks. The vibrant strawberries peek through, making it not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:07:35.528Z

When I decided to make this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, I wanted it to transport everyone back to summer picnics. I achieved this by using real strawberries and a simple cream for frosting. What sets this cake apart is the base—a moist vanilla cake that holds up beautifully under the luscious toppings. I've learned that the key is to layer fresh fruit just before serving to keep everything light and fresh.

One of my favorite personal touches is adding a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream, which elevates the entire dish. It adds a brightness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. I encourage you to enjoy this cake with friends, as it’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together and sparks joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries folded into creamy whipped topping
Fluffy vanilla cake that's easy to prepare
Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations

Understanding Cake Structure

The foundation of a successful Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake lies in the proper mixing technique. When beating the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture, which incorporates air into the batter. This aeration is crucial for a cake that rises beautifully and has a tender crumb. Be careful not to overmix once the flour is added, as this can lead to a dense cake due to gluten development.

Choosing the right cake pan is also important. A 9x13 inch baking sheet ensures even cooking, allowing the edges to brown slightly while keeping the center moist. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the cake halfway through baking for consistent results. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; if the top springs back when lightly pressed, it’s ready to come out.

Whipped Cream Perfection

The whipped cream topping is what elevates this cake into a delightful dessert experience. For the best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps the cream reach soft peaks more easily and ensures a stable, fluffy texture. Additionally, using heavy whipping cream is key; it contains a higher fat content, which stabilizes the whipped cream and prevents it from weeping.

When adding the powdered sugar and lemon zest, resist the urge to mix on high speed. Instead, start on a lower setting to prevent splattering and gradually increase the speed as the cream begins to thicken. Gently folding in the strawberries at the end brings one of my favorite flavor contrasts; the juicy bursts from the berries complement the creamy topping perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for an irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt

Topping Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp lemon zest

Have these ingredients ready for an easy and delightful baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and lemon zest until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the top. Decorate with additional strawberries as desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Now you're ready to enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the sliced strawberries in a tablespoon of sugar and a splash of lemon juice for about 10 minutes before adding them to the whipped cream.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with different berries to create a unique spin on this classic dessert. Raspberries or blueberries can easily replace strawberries for a delicious alternative. For a tropical twist, consider using diced mango or pineapple. Just be mindful of the fruit's sweetness and adjust the powdered sugar in the whipped cream accordingly to maintain balance.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey in place of the whipped cream. This will give a tangy flavor while keeping a creamy texture. Just be sure to fold in the strawberries gently to maintain their shape and freshness.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake is its make-ahead potential. You can bake the vanilla cake a day in advance, allowing it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, and it saves you time on the day of the event.

If you're short on time, you can also whip the cream and prepare the strawberries a few hours ahead of serving. Store the whipped cream in an airtight container in the fridge, and mix the strawberries in right before you're ready to assemble. This prevents the strawberries from breaking down, ensuring that each slice is fresh and visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen if necessary. Thaw and drain them before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake in advance and prepare the strawberry topping on the day you plan to serve it.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.