Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups freeze dried strawberries; 1 cup melted coconut oil; 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt or sour cream; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup high-quality strawberry jam; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup milk; 6 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature); 2 sticks salted butter (at room temperature); 2 1/2-3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup warm milk; 1/3 cup strawberry jam; 1 cup brown rice crispies

Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert, celebrated for its bright flavors and light textures. But have you ever tried a strawberry shortcake sheet cake? This delightful twist takes all the classic elements you love and transforms them into a gorgeous, shareable cake—perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.

So, what exactly is a strawberry shortcake sheet cake? It’s a fluffy vanilla cake infused with freeze-dried strawberries, layered with a luscious cream cheese frosting, and swirled with strawberry jam. The beauty of a sheet cake lies in its convenience: it’s easy to bake, cut into squares, and serve. Plus, using freeze-dried strawberries means you can enjoy that vibrant strawberry taste even when they’re out of season.

The versatility doesn’t stop there! You can customize toppings or add a sprinkle of crushed brown rice crispies for an extra crunch. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion—be it a birthday celebration, a summer picnic, or simply an afternoon pick-me-up. If you're ready to get started, let’s dive into the enticing details of this delightful recipe that is sure to impress your guests.

For a great selection of freeze-dried strawberries, check out sources like Target for high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Creating a delicious strawberry shortcake sheet cake is a delightful process that begins with gathering all the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this berry-infused treat:

Cake

3 cups freeze-dried strawberries – These provide an intense strawberry flavor without excess moisture. (Find them here)
1 cup melted coconut oil – A great substitute for butter that adds moisture. (Get it here)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream – These ingredients keep the cake tender.
2 large eggs – Eggs help bind ingredients and provide structure.
¾ cup granulated sugar – To sweeten the cake perfectly.
1 cup high-quality strawberry jam – Enhances the strawberry flavor and adds moisture. (Purchase it here)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Essential for depth of flavor.
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the cake batter.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
¼ teaspoon baking soda – Works in conjunction with the baking powder.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors!
¼ cup milk – Adds moisture to the batter. (Find it here)

Frosting

After the flavorful cake, don’t forget the frosting! Here’s what you need:

6 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature) – Provides a creamy, tangy base. (Get it here)
2 sticks salted butter (at room temperature) – Adds rich flavor. (Find it here)
2 ½-3 cups powdered sugar – Essential for a sweet, smooth frosting. (Check it out here)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For added flavor.
¼ cup warm milk – Helps achieve the desired frosting consistency. (Find it here)
⅓ cup strawberry jam – To enhance the frosting with fruitiness. (Get it here)
1 cup brown rice crispies – Adds a fun crunch to the decoration. (Find them here)

With these ingredients on hand, you're just a few steps away from a scrumptious adventure in baking. So, are you ready to whip up some joy with this strawberry shortcake sheet cake?

Preparing Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Creating a delicious strawberry shortcake sheet cake is an accessible and delightful way to treat yourself and friends. With a moist cake layered with a rich frosting, it’s perfect for any gathering. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to have everything at your fingertips:

For the 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

For the 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

With your ingredients sorted, you're ready for the next steps!

Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to prepare your workspace. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your strawberry shortcake sheet cake starts baking at the right temperature for perfect results. Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper to make removal and cleanup easier later.

Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat together the melted coconut oil, Greek yogurt, eggs, granulated sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract using either a whisk or an electric mixer. As you mix, gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and about ⅔ of your freeze-dried strawberry powder. The remaining powder will be saved for the frosting. Once combined, slowly stir in the milk until you achieve a smooth batter.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and evenly distribute it. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick comes out clean. It’s always a good idea to check a few minutes early to avoid overbaking! After removing it from the oven, let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Create the Frosting

While your cake cools, it’s time to whip up a delectable frosting. In a stand mixer, combine the cream cheese and butter and beat until light and fluffy—about two minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla until you reach a creamy consistency. If needed, stream in the warm milk slowly until the mixture achieves your desired texture.

Frost and Decorate the Cake

Once your cake is cool, it’s time for the fun part! Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake and give it a swirl with dollops of strawberry jam for a gorgeous marbled effect. For the finishing touch, crush the brown rice crispies and mix them with the remaining freeze-dried strawberry powder. Sprinkle this mixture over the top for added crunch and flavor.

And there you have it! Slice up your mouth-watering strawberry shortcake sheet cake and get ready to enjoy a slice—or two! Perfect for gatherings or just because, this cake is sure to impress. Happy baking!

Variations of Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Vegan Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Looking for a vegan twist on the classic strawberry shortcake sheet cake? You can easily swap out the eggs and dairy for plant-based alternatives! Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and substitute the yogurt with coconut yogurt. Also, consider almond milk for a creamy texture. This variation maintains the delightful flavor while being free from animal products, making it perfect for your vegan friends!

Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

If gluten sensitivity is a concern, fear not! Gluten-free flour blends work wonderfully in this cake. Brands like Bob's Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer excellent options that have a similar texture. Just ensure baking powder is gluten-free. This way, you can indulge in a moist, flavor-packed cake that everyone will love. Who doesn’t appreciate a dessert that can cater to different dietary needs?

Baking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Baking a strawberry shortcake sheet cake is a delightful venture! Here are some essential tips to ensure your cake is as scrumptious as possible:

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality freeze-dried strawberries and strawberry jam for vibrant flavor.
Room Temperature Dairy: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature; this will help achieve a smooth, fluffy frosting.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake light and airy.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Remember, baking is a journey! Enjoy the process, and your strawberry shortcake sheet cake will turn out deliciously. For more tips on baking, check out King Arthur Baking or America's Test Kitchen.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

When it comes to enjoying your strawberry shortcake sheet cake, why not elevate the experience? Consider pairing it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful creaminess. If you want to add a fruity twist, try serving it alongside a berry medley, combining blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant color pop.

For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts on top—this adds delicious texture and a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cake. Finally, don't forget to brew a pot of herbal tea or serve with sparkling water to refresh your palate while indulging in this delicious dessert! Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect strawberry shortcake sheet cake is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to elevate your baking game:

Choose ripe strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries enhance flavor. Opt for seasonal berries for the best taste.
Don’t overmix the batter: Just mix until combined; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the ingredients blend smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
Swirl your jam carefully: When mixing in the strawberry jam into the frosting, aim for a marbled effect for visual appeal.
Consider freezing leftovers: This cake freezes well! Wrap pieces in plastic wrap to enjoy later.

For a detailed recipe, check out our full instructions here. Happy baking!

Time Details for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your strawberry shortcake sheet cake is a breeze! You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix the batter together.

Baking Time

Once your batter is all set in the pan, pop it in the oven for around 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be perfectly set (no wiggles allowed!).

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at about 50-55 minutes from start to finish before you can dig into this delectable dessert. Just think of all the smiles it will bring once it's ready to serve!

For helpful tips on timing and ingredient prep, check out this guide on baking basics. If you're interested in more strawberry-inspired recipes, this article offers some delightful options to explore!

Nutritional Information for Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

Calories

A slice of this delightful strawberry shortcake sheet cake contains approximately 250 calories. Perfect for a sweet treat without going overboard!

Protein

Each slice offers about 3 grams of protein, thanks to the inclusion of Greek yogurt and eggs. It’s a tasty way to sneak in a bit of nourishment!

Sodium

This cake has a moderate sodium content of around 200 milligrams per slice. It's a balanced option for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping salt levels in check.

For more nutritional insights and inspiration, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData. Enjoy making this scrumptious cake with confidence!

FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

How can I store leftover strawberry shortcake sheet cake?

To keep your delicious strawberry shortcake sheet cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last for about a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can add a delightful juiciness to your cake. However, using freeze-dried strawberries helps enhance the concentrated strawberry flavor without adding extra moisture. If you opt for fresh berries, consider mashing them to create a fruit puree for mixing into the batter.

What’s the best way to achieve a perfect frosting consistency?

Achieving the right consistency for your frosting is all about balance. Start with room-temperature cream cheese and butter, beating them together until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. If it's too thick, you can add warm milk a little at a time until you reach your desired spreadability. Remember, it should be smooth and easy to work with, but not runny!

For more tips on cake storage and variations, check out resources like Taste of Home or Food Network.

Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake

The strawberry shortcake sheet cake is not just a dessert; it's a delightful experience that evokes summer days and cherished moments with friends and family. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite!