Strawberry Shortcake

This Aries strawberry shortcake birthday cake is a bold yet elegant dessert, perfect for celebrating an Aries’ fiery and passionate personality. With layers of soft sponge cake, fluffy whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, this cake is both light and indulgent. Its vibrant red strawberries reflect Aries’ dynamic energy, making it a fitting choice for an unforgettable birthday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and airy cake layers that complement the fresh strawberries and cream.
• No heavy frostings—just a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness.
• Simple yet visually stunning, making it an ideal birthday centerpiece.
• Easily customizable with different berries or flavored creams.
• A refreshing and less heavy alternative to traditional birthday cakes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sponge Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk

For the Whipped Cream Filling:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• Additional whole strawberries for decoration

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
3. Combine Ingredients – Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
4. Bake the Cakes – Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
5. Make the Whipped Cream – In a cold mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble the Cake – Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of whipped cream and arrange sliced strawberries on top. Add the second cake layer and repeat with more whipped cream and strawberries.
7. Decorate – Garnish with whole strawberries and serve immediately or chill for a short while before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling & Assembly Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Berry Medley – Add raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry shortcake.
• Chocolate Version – Replace sponge cake with a light chocolate cake for a richer flavor.
• Lemon Twist – Add lemon zest to the whipped cream for a citrusy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing – Freeze the cake layers separately and assemble fresh for best results.
• Reheating – Best served cold; allow chilled cake to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and assemble them with fresh cream and strawberries on the day of serving.

2. What if I do not have heavy whipping cream?

You can use stabilized whipped topping, but fresh whipped cream provides the best flavor.

3. Can I use store-bought sponge cake?

Yes, store-bought sponge cake works if you want to save time.

4. How do I prevent the whipped cream from melting?

Use cold heavy cream and chill the bowl before whipping. You can also add a stabilizer like cornstarch or gelatin.

5. Can I add a syrup to the cake layers?

Yes, brushing the layers with a light sugar syrup or strawberry juice enhances moisture and flavor.

6. What type of strawberries work best?

Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best taste and texture. Avoid frozen ones as they release excess moisture.

7. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

8. Can I add a cream cheese layer?

Yes, mix cream cheese with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla for a richer filling.

9. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes.

10. Can I decorate the cake with other toppings?

Yes, try drizzling melted chocolate or adding edible gold flakes for an extra touch.

Conclusion

This Aries strawberry shortcake birthday cake is a fresh and elegant dessert, perfect for celebrating an Aries’ bold and passionate nature. With its soft sponge cake, fluffy whipped cream, and juicy strawberries, this cake is a delightful way to mark a special occasion. Whether served as a birthday cake or a light treat, it is sure to impress.