Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
If you are on the hunt for a delicious dessert that captures the essence of summer, then look no further than this delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake! With its tender vanilla cake layered with luscious strawberries and whipped cream, it's perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply indulging in at home.
Imagine the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries wafting through your kitchen as this cake bakes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are a novice home baker or a seasoned pro, the simplicity of this recipe makes it approachable, yet the result is undeniably impressive.
Why You’ll Love This Sheet Cake?
This strawberry shortcake sheet cake is not just visually stunning, but it also satisfies the taste buds with its burst of flavor. The combination of freeze-dried strawberries adds a concentrated berry taste that pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting. Plus, using a sheet cake format means more servings, making it ideal for parties or potlucks!
Another great feature is its adaptability to dietary preferences; you can easily replace ingredients for vegan or gluten-free options. So, get ready to impress friends, family, or just yourself with this delightful treat that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy!
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Creating a delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake hinges on gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a friendly guide to what you’ll need!
Cake Ingredients
- 3 cups freeze-dried strawberries
- 1 cup melted coconut oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 large eggs
The remaining flour, sugar, jam, and other elements blend together perfectly to create that light, fluffy cake we all crave.
Frosting Ingredients
- 6 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 2 sticks salted butter (at room temperature)
With powdered sugar, vanilla, warm milk, and a touch of strawberry jam, you’ll whip up a frosting that’s simply irresistible! Gathering these elements will set the stage for a fun baking adventure that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Are you ready to dive into creating your own strawberry shortcake sheet cake masterpiece? Let's get started!
Preparing Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Making a delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake brings back those dreamy summer vibes, especially with its vibrant flavors and soft, fluffy textures. Let's dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dessert!
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by processing 3 cups of freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. This step is crucial for maximizing the strawberry flavor in both the cake and the frosting. The freeze-dried variety retains much of the fruit's essence while allowing for easy incorporation into your recipe. If you want to learn more about freeze-dried fruits, check out this resource.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
While you're prepping your strawberries, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F. Next, line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also helps with easy removal once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of melted coconut oil, ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), 2 large eggs, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of high-quality strawberry jam, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Ensure these are thoroughly mixed to create a smooth, inviting base for your cake.
Step 4: Add and Combine the Dry Ingredients
Now it's time to mix things up as you add the dry ingredients: 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and about ⅔ of the strawberry powder you prepared earlier. Stir gently until just combined, then incorporate ¼ cup of milk to achieve a lovely batter consistency.
Step 5: Bake and Cool the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and no longer wobbly in the center. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. The aroma of freshly baked cake will surely fill your kitchen with joy!
Step 6: Whip Up the Frosting
While waiting for your cake to cool, it’s the perfect time to prepare the frosting. In a stand mixer, whip together 6 ounces of cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 sticks of room temperature salted butter and continue beating until fluffy. Gradually mix in 2 ½ to 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then slowly add in ¼ cup of warm milk until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 7: Frost Your Delicious Cake
Once your cake has cooled, it’s time to frost it with the luscious cream cheese mixture. Gently swirl in some additional strawberry jam for a beautiful and delicious marbled effect. For a finishing touch, crush some brown rice crispies mixed with leftover strawberry powder and sprinkle it on top.
Now, cut into slices, and get ready to enjoy this delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake! It’s perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat for yourself. Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Variation
Substituting chocolate for part of the flour in your strawberry shortcake sheet cake can add a delicious twist. Use 1 cup of cocoa powder along with 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour to create a rich, chocolatey base. Pair with a chocolate buttercream for frosting, and sprinkle freeze-dried strawberries on top for an irresistible combination of flavors.
Dairy-Free Strawberry Shortcake
For those avoiding dairy, you can easily adapt your strawberry shortcake sheet cake by using almond or oat milk instead of traditional milk and swapping the butter with vegan alternatives. Additionally, almond or coconut yogurt is a perfect substitute for the Greek yogurt, ensuring a creamy texture without compromising flavor. These swaps help maintain the deliciousness while catering to dietary preferences!
Explore more variations and share your favorites!
Baking Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Tips for Perfecting Your Cake
Baking a delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some friendly tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for easy blending, which helps create a fluffy texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. This prevents the cake from becoming dense.
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Check with a Toothpick: When baking, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready!
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Let It Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This way, you avoid a melted frosting disaster!
Happy baking, and enjoy creating this delicious treat!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Ideal Pairings for Every Occasion
When it comes to enjoying your strawberry shortcake sheet cake, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that fit every occasion:
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Summer Picnics: Pair your cake with a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or iced tea. The bright flavors complement the strawberries beautifully.
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Birthday Parties: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a creamy twist. Kids and adults alike will love this indulgent touch!
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Brunch Gatherings: Serve it with whipped cream and fresh mint for a charming presentation. It’s an excellent centerpiece for a brunch table.
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Casual Weeknight Desserts: Need a simple weeknight treat? Enjoy it with a dollop of plain yogurt or Greek yogurt for a healthier option that still feels decadent.
No matter the occasion, this strawberry shortcake sheet cake is sure to impress and satisfy!
Tips for Making Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating a strawberry shortcake sheet cake can be a delightful experience, but a few common pitfalls might ruin your bake. Here’s how to navigate your way to perfection:
- Overmixing Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense texture. Aim for just combined ingredients for a light, fluffy cake.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, yogurt, and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter that rises beautifully.
- Skipping Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment prevents sticking. It makes serving hassle-free.
- Underbaking: Every oven is different! Start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
By avoiding these missteps, you’ll be well on your way to a scrumptious strawberry shortcake sheet cake!
Time Details for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Preparation Time
The strawberry shortcake sheet cake requires about 15 minutes of preparation. This is perfect for those busy evenings when you want a quick yet delightful dessert.
Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is set, and the center has a slight spring to it.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour—15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake. This makes it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions!
Nutritional Information for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
When indulging in a slice of strawberry shortcake sheet cake, knowing what you're enjoying can enhance your experience. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional highlights:
Calories
A generous serving of this delightful cake contains approximately 300 calories. Perfect for a dessert treat that won’t completely derail your day!
Sugar Content
With about 20 grams of sugar per slice, this cake strikes a balance between sweetness and flavor. You get all the joy of strawberries without going overboard.
Fiber
Each slice offers about 1 gram of fiber, thanks to the incorporation of strawberries. While it's not a fiber powerhouse, every bit helps when aiming for a balanced diet.
Enjoy every bite of this luscious cake while keeping these details in mind for a guilt-free indulgence! For more tips on healthy eating, check out Healthline or ChooseMyPlate.gov for guidance on nutrition.
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
How do I store leftover cake?
To keep your strawberry shortcake sheet cake fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help it maintain its moisture and flavor for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying again!
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Absolutely! While freeze-dried strawberries add intense flavor and vibrant color, fresh strawberries can be used as well. Just slice them thinly and fold them gently into the batter or layer them on top of your frosting for a fresh, fruity touch. Keep in mind that fresh strawberries may make the cake a bit moister, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use sour cream or even plain yogurt as a substitute. Both options will provide a similar creaminess and tang. For a dairy-free alternative, try unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based yogurt—just remember this may alter the flavor slightly.
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need tips while making your strawberry shortcake sheet cake! We love hearing from you!
Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Why You Need to Try This Recipe Right Away!
If you haven't tried strawberry shortcake sheet cake yet, you’re missing out! This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of strawberries, cream cheese frosting, and fluffy cake—all in one easy-to-bake sheet pan. Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t wait; gather your ingredients today and create some sweet memories!
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Equipment
- blender
- Mixing Bowl
- Stand mixer
- baking dish
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 cups freeze dried strawberries
- 1 cup melted coconut oil
- ½ cup plain greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup high-quality strawberry jam
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup milk
Frosting
- 6 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 2 sticks salted butter at room temperature
- 2 ½-3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup warm milk
- ⅓ cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup brown rice crispies
Instructions
Preparation
- In a blender or food processor, process 3 cups freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder.
- Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat together the coconut oil, yogurt, eggs, sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add about ⅔ of the strawberry powder (save the remainder for the frosting). Mix until just combined, then slowly beat in the milk until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is just set and no longer wiggly in the center. Remove and let cool.
- To make the frosting: In a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese until whipped. Add the butter and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, then slowly stream in the milk until your desired consistency is reached, you may not use it all.
- Frost the cake all over. Swirl the jam into the frosting, not fully mixing it in. Add the rice crispies to a blender or ziplock bag. Crush into fine crumbs, then mix in the remaining strawberry powder (about 3 tablespoons). Sprinkle the crumbs over the cake. Slice, eat and enjoy!
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