Strawberry Shortcake Cake Mix Recipe
Introduction
There is something timeless and comforting about a strawberry shortcake. The soft and fluffy layers of cake, the sweet juicy strawberries, and the light whipped cream come together to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a summer day. If you love the classic taste of strawberry shortcake but don’t want to spend hours baking from scratch, you are in for a treat. This strawberry shortcake cake mix recipe is simple, quick, and incredibly delicious.
Using a boxed cake mix not only saves time but also ensures a consistent and fluffy texture every time. The real magic happens when you add fresh strawberries and homemade whipped cream. It tastes just like the traditional version but without the hassle. Whether you are planning a birthday party, a casual gathering, or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to become a favorite. In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, how to make it step by step, tips to make it your own, and more.
This is not just a recipe. It is a guide to making a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor. So grab your apron, and let’s make something delicious.
Ingredients Needed
One of the best things about this recipe is that you do not need a long shopping list. Most of the ingredients are either already in your kitchen or easy to find at any grocery store. Below is a list of what you will need for the cake, the strawberry filling, and the whipped cream topping.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boxed white or yellow cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | 1600 |
| Eggs (as required by cake mix) | 3 large | 210 |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup | 960 |
| Water | 1 cup | 0 |
| Fresh strawberries | 2 cups (sliced) | 100 |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | 96 |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Powdered sugar | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
These ingredients create a well-balanced dessert. The fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and freshness while the whipped cream keeps it light and airy. You can always adjust the sweetness based on your preference.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this cake is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps and you will have a stunning and tasty strawberry shortcake ready to serve.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour two round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Usually, this means combining the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and well blended. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then remove them and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, wash and slice the strawberries. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle them with granulated sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for at least 20 minutes. This helps release their natural juices and enhances their flavor.
In a chilled mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix or the cream will turn buttery.
Once the cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Add a layer of sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the whipped cream and strawberry layers. You can also cover the sides with whipped cream if you prefer a fully frosted cake. Decorate the top with extra strawberries for a beautiful finish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This cake is versatile and easy to personalize. Here are some fun and tasty ways to make it your own.
You can add a layer of strawberry jam or preserve between the cake layers for extra flavor. If you like a hint of citrus, try adding some lemon zest to the cake batter. It brightens the whole dessert.
For a richer cream layer, mix in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese with the whipped cream. This adds a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Want to make it more festive? Use heart-shaped pans or top it with edible flowers. You can also turn this recipe into cupcakes by dividing the batter into a muffin tin and reducing the bake time.
If strawberries are out of season, use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving. This is based on a 12-slice serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary depending on the brands and exact quantities you use. For a lighter version, you can use light whipped cream or reduce the sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This strawberry shortcake cake is best served chilled. The cool cream and juicy strawberries are especially refreshing on a warm day. You can serve each slice with a sprig of mint or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra flair.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a lovely dessert for special occasions like birthdays, baby showers, or Mother’s Day. If you want to go all out, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and are best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. The whipped cream and fruit will start to soften the cake over time, but it will still taste great.
Conclusion
Making a strawberry shortcake cake with a cake mix is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a classic dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. It is perfect for beginners, busy parents, or anyone who wants something sweet and impressive with minimal effort. By combining a store-bought cake mix with fresh ingredients like strawberries and whipped cream, you get the best of both worlds. It is simple, quick, and delicious.
Whether you are making this for a party or just because you love strawberries, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert lineup. Try it today and see how easy it is to create a bakery-worthy treat right at home.