Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a family gathering. This delightful treat combines fluffy cake with fresh strawberries, creating a satisfying and flavorful experience. Plus, it’s simple to make and easy to serve, making it an ideal choice for both casual gatherings and special events.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as-is or top it with whipped cream or ice cream to elevate the flavor.
- Perfect for Sharing: The sheet format allows you to cut into generous portions, making it great for parties.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe strawberries adds a burst of natural sweetness that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
To successfully create your Strawberry Sheet Shortcake, having the right tools on hand is crucial. These items will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- 9×9 baking dish (or 12″x17″ half sheet pan)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool helps you cream the butter and sugar efficiently, resulting in a light and airy batter.
- Baking dish: A proper size ensures even baking, preventing undercooked or overcooked sections.
- Spatula: Useful for folding ingredients together without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
For the Topping
- Strawberries {sprinkled in sugar if you prefer}
How to Make Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9 baking dish (or use a 12″x17″ half sheet pan for thinner slices) and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar. Then add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing on medium speed until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine all dry ingredients:
1. Mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Slowly incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients from step two.
Step 4: Add Milk and Bake
Once combined, gently stir in the milk. Pour the batter into your greased pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Sheet Shortcake as a refreshing dessert!
How to Serve Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will please your guests.
Individual Portions
- Serve slices of Strawberry Sheet Shortcake on individual plates for a neat presentation.
- Top each slice with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for an elegant touch.
Parfaits
- Layer pieces of the shortcake with whipped cream and strawberries in a glass.
- This creates a beautiful, colorful dessert that’s perfect for gatherings.
Ice Cream Sundae Style
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the warm shortcake.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Breakfast Delight
- Serve small squares of the cake with yogurt and fresh fruit as a breakfast option.
- This makes for a refreshing start to the day.
How to Perfect Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
To ensure your Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is absolutely perfect, follow these tips. They will help you achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor. If they’re out of season, consider using frozen ones, but thaw them first.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps keep it from falling apart.
- Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with lemon zest or almond extract in the batter for added flavor depth.
- Serve Promptly: For best results, serve shortly after preparation. This keeps the shortcake fluffy and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
Pairing your Strawberry Sheet Shortcake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the lightness of the shortcake.
- Whipped Cream: A classic topping that enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice adds richness and decadence.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only look lovely but also add a refreshing hint when served alongside.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements dessert perfectly, offering a cozy finish to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a delightful dessert like Strawberry Sheet Shortcake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Boldly skipping the butter cream step: Creaming butter and sugar properly ensures a light texture. Don’t rush this step; mix until fluffy.
- Boldly ignoring ingredient temperatures: Cold ingredients can lead to dense cake. Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for the best results.
- Boldly overmixing the batter: Overmixing can toughen your cake. Mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Boldly using the wrong pan size: A different pan size can alter baking times and texture. Stick to the recommended 9×9 or 12×17 for perfect slices.
- Boldly forgetting to check doneness: Always use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a non-stick skillet, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is a delightful dessert made with layers of fluffy cake and fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for gatherings!
Can I customize my Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
Yes! You can add whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
How do I make my Strawberry Sheet Shortcake more flavorful?
Try adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like mint can also enhance the taste.
How long does it take to bake this Strawberry Sheet Shortcake?
It typically takes about 30 minutes at 350°F. Always check with a toothpick to ensure it’s done!
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them before using. Sprinkle with sugar if needed to enhance their sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful dessert a try and enjoy its comforting taste today!
Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Sheet Shortcake, a perfect dessert for any gathering! This easy-to-make treat features a fluffy cake layered with fresh strawberries, offering a light and refreshing experience that’s both satisfying and delicious. Ideal for summer picnics or family celebrations, this dessert can be served as-is or elevated with whipped cream or ice cream. Its sheet cake format makes it easy to cut into generous portions for sharing, ensuring everyone enjoys a slice of this sweet delight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh strawberries (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 baking dish or a 12×17 half sheet pan.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the milk gently until smooth. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (93g)
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 218mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
