Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake Recipe

This delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake combines fluffy vanilla cake with fresh strawberries and creamy whipped topping.

Perfect for birthdays and summer gatherings, this easy dessert delivers classic flavors in every bite. Read on to discover how simple it is to make this crowd-pleasing treat that works equally well for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

First, this recipe simplifies traditional strawberry shortcake while keeping all the flavors you crave. Instead of layering individual cakes, you bake one simple sheet cake that serves sixteen people.

Next, it features soft vanilla cake with a tender crumb thanks to sour cream in the batter. Moreover, fresh strawberry toppings add natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the light cream cheese frosting. Finally, this dessert travels well compared to layered versions.

If you enjoy easy desserts with strawberries, you’ll appreciate how stress-free this recipe comes together. For another crowd-pleasing meal option perfect for gatherings, try our delicious Walking Taco Casserole that uses similar convenience principles for savory dishes.

Recipe

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Ingredients and Substitutions

Base Components

• 2½ cups all purpose flour (300 g)
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar (350 g)
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil (120 ml)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 2½ teaspoons vanilla flavoring
• ⅔ cup sour cream (160 g)
• ¾ cup milk (175 ml)

Frosting Components

• 6 ounces cream cheese (170 g)
• ¾ cup powdered sugar (90 g)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla flavoring
• 1½ cups chilled heavy whipping cream (360 ml)

Strawberry Topping

• 5 cups sliced fresh strawberries (700 g)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (30 g)

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Preparing the Cake

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In another large bowl, beat granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and egg whites until smooth.

Add vanilla flavoring, sour cream, and milk while mixing at medium speed. Gradually blend dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.

Making the Frosting

While cake cools, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla flavoring until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until evenly combined.

Assembling the Dessert

Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake. In a bowl, gently toss strawberry slices with jam. Arrange dressed strawberries over frosting layer. Let set in refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

Always bring cold ingredients like eggs and milk to room temperature for smoother batter. Furthermore, sift powdered sugar to prevent lumps in your frosting. When measuring flour, spoon it into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the bag.

This prevents dense cake textures. Drop your pan lightly on the counter before baking to release air bubbles. For cheese lovers seeking savory options, our Asian-Style Lettuce Wraps offer complementary flavor contrast as dinner starters.

Flavor Variations

Fruit Options

Substitute blueberries or raspberries for strawberries when they’re in season. Mixed berries create beautiful color contrast.

Cream Options

For quicker assembly, use stabilized whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting. Add lemon zest to frosting for bright citrus notes.

Cake Options

For nutty flavor, replace ½ cup flour with almond flour. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon flavoring to the batter for fruitier cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled cake squares with extra berries on the side. Top individual portions with mint sprigs for freshness. Pair with vanilla ice cream for decadent dessert presentations.

This cake shines at spring brunches alongside quiches or summer barbecues with grilled favorites. For comforting meal pairings, consider our satisfying Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup that balances sweet desserts with savory flavors.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Refrigerate leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The strawberries may release juice over time, but the flavors remain delicious.

For freezing, wrap unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Prepare fresh frosting and strawberries when ready to serve. Avoid freezing assembled dessert as the strawberries will become mushy after thawing.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein	Fiber	Sugar	Sodium
585 kcal	36 g	60 g	7 g	2 g	37 g	228 mg

FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain frozen strawberries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent soggy cake?

Ensure cake is completely cooled before adding frosting and strawberries.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use quality gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for best results.

Why use egg whites and whole eggs?

Whites make the cake lighter while yolks add richness.

How far ahead can I assemble the cake?

Assemble up to 4 hours before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

With its fluffy cake base, sweet berry topping, and cloud-like frosting, this strawberry shortcake sheet cake will become your go-to dessert recipe. The simplified preparation saves time without compromising flavor. Furthermore, this versatile dessert adapts beautifully to seasonal fruits and special diets. Gather your ingredients and surprise your family with this delicious summer-inspired treat!