Name: Strawberry Sheet Shortcake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 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 Sheet Shortcake

The Nostalgia of Strawberry Shortcake

Who doesn’t have fond memories of biting into a fluffy slice of strawberry shortcake, with sweet strawberries bursting on your palate and whipped cream melting in your mouth? This classic dessert evokes nostalgia, often reminding us of summer picnics, family gatherings, and the fleeting joy of warm afternoons spent outdoors. Whether it was a beloved family recipe or a treat enjoyed at a local bakery, the essence of strawberry shortcake is timeless and comforting.

Why Sheet Cake Is a Game Changer for Busy Young Professionals

For those hustling in their careers, time is of the essence. Enter the strawberry sheet shortcake! This delightful twist on the traditional recipe allows you to whip up a delicious dessert with minimal effort. Sheet cakes are particularly appealing for busy young professionals because they serve a crowd—perfect for gatherings or potluck events—without requiring hours in the kitchen.

By baking your shortcake in a single, spacious pan, you can focus on more important things, like finishing that deadline or catching up with friends over brunch. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can invite spontaneity into your kitchen—maybe a last-minute gathering? With the strawberry sheet cake, you’ll always be just a whisk and a few ingredients away from a deliciously nostalgic treat.

For more inspiration on quick baking ideas, you might check out resources from Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Creating a delightful strawberry sheet shortcake that will impress your friends and family is all about the right ingredients. Here’s what you need:

Essential Cake Ingredients

Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These add an intense strawberry flavor while keeping the cake moist.
Coconut Oil: A great substitute for traditional butter, giving the cake a light texture.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Both contribute to moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Your go-to sweetener for that perfect level of sweetness.
High-Quality Strawberry Jam: Adds depth to the cake, while extra vanilla extract brings in warmth.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cake, providing structure.

Key Frosting Components

Cream Cheese and Butter: These two create a rich and creamy base for your frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for sweetening up the frosting to the perfect taste.
Strawberry Jam: Swirling this in adds a beautiful, fruity touch.

Optional Garnishes and Toppings

Brown Rice Crispies: A delightful crunch when sprinkled on top.
Fresh Strawberries: Garnish with slices for fresh flavor and a pop of color.
Mint Leaves: For another layer of freshness and a touch of elegance.

With these ingredients on hand, you're well on your way to creating a stellar strawberry sheet shortcake that everyone will adore! For more insights on each ingredient, check out the health benefits of strawberries and the versatility of Greek yogurt.

Preparing Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Creating a delicious strawberry sheet shortcake is a delightful journey, combining the vibrant flavors of strawberries with a moist cake and creamy frosting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make this sweet treat effortlessly!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before diving in, it's essential to gather all your ingredients to set yourself up for success. For the cake, you’ll need:

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
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
¼ cup milk

For the creamy frosting, have these ready:

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

Make sure to prep your kitchen with some essential cooking tools, like mixing bowls, a baking dish, and a hand mixer.

Bake the strawberry cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a blender or food processor, process the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, yogurt, eggs, sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla until smooth. Then, gently stir in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, followed by ⅔ of the strawberry powder. Finally, add the milk until the mixture is just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set and no longer wiggly in the center. Allow it to cool completely.

Make the creamy frosting

While your cake is cooling, it’s time to whip up that dreamy frosting. In a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese until fluffy. Add in the softened butter and blend until light and airy (about 2 minutes). Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is mixed well. Slowly stream in the warm milk, adjusting until you achieve your preferred consistency. A smooth and spreadable frosting is key!

Frost the cake and add strawberry swirls

Once the cake is cool, it’s time to frost! Generously spread the frosting over the entire surface of the cake. Now, grab that strawberry jam and swirl it through the frosting for a beautiful and delicious pattern. It's okay if it’s not perfect; those little variations add charm!

Final touches and presentation

For the finishing touch, crush the brown rice crispies and mix them with the leftover strawberry powder. This crunchy topping provides a fantastic texture contrast. Sprinkling this over the frosted cake not only looks appealing but adds a delightful crunch. Now, slice your strawberry sheet shortcake, serve, and enjoy! Your friends and family are sure to be impressed by this elegant yet simple dessert.

Embrace the joy of baking with this show-stopping treat! If you want to enhance your baking skills further, check out sites like Serious Eats for tips and tricks that elevate your kitchen game.

Variations on Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Chocolate Strawberry Sheet Cake

Why not elevate your strawberry sheet shortcake with a chocolate twist? To make a delicious chocolate version, simply incorporate cocoa powder into the batter. A good rule of thumb is to start with ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, reducing the flour by the same amount. This creates a delightful chocolate base that pairs beautifully with strawberries. Top it off with chocolate ganache or a rich chocolate frosting to indulge your sweet tooth.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Sheet Cake

For those needing a gluten-free option, making a gluten-free strawberry sheet cake is simple! Swap out regular flour with a quality gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for better structure. The rest of the recipe remains the same. You can make this variation just as scrumptious, with the strawberries adding the same fresh sweetness. Check out King Arthur Baking for their recommended blends and tips to perfect your gluten-free baked goods!

Try out these variations for a unique twist on the classic strawberry sheet shortcake. Enjoy experimenting!

Baking Notes for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

To ensure your strawberry sheet shortcake comes out perfectly, focus on the following:

Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly affects the flavor and texture. Stick to fresh eggs and quality butter.
Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is fully baked. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Storage and Longevity Tips

Cool completely: Before storing, make sure your cake is completely cooled to prevent condensation.
Keep it covered: Store your strawberry sheet shortcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for longer freshness: If you want to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices, well-wrapped, for up to three months.

For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Pairing with Fresh Strawberries

When enjoying your strawberry sheet shortcake, nothing quite beats the freshness of ripe strawberries. Consider slicing a few extra strawberries to serve alongside your cake, adding a burst of color and flavor. You can even macerate them in a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra sweet and tangy topping. For a delightful twist, try layering them between slices of cake or on top, letting their natural juices seep into the cake for added moisture.

Serving with Whipped Cream Alternatives

While whipped cream is a classic pairing, there are several delicious alternatives to enhance your strawberry sheet shortcake. Consider using:

Coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle tropical flair.
Greek yogurt infused with honey or vanilla for a protein-packed and creamy topping.
Mascarpone cheese blended with a touch of sugar for a rich, Italian-inspired finish.

Feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your taste best!

Time Details for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Preparation Time
To get started on your delicious strawberry sheet shortcake, you’ll need about 30 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep the cake. Take your time to enjoy the process!

Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for a 30-minute baking time. Perfect for catching up on your favorite playlist while you wait!

Total Time
In just 1 hour, you’ll have a delectable dessert ready to impress! Remember, the hardest part will be waiting for it to cool before you dive in.

Nutritional Information for Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Calories per Serving

Each serving of the strawberry sheet shortcake comes in at approximately 373 calories. This makes it a sweet treat that, while indulgent, can still fit into an active lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation.

Sugar Content

When you're enjoying this dessert, keep in mind that it contains around 24 grams of sugar per serving. The natural sweetness from strawberries and added sugar give it that delightful flavor, but it's worth being mindful if you're keeping an eye on sugar intake.

Suggested Servings

This delicious sheet cake is perfect for gatherings, serving up to 18 slices. It's ideal for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in, making it easy to share the joy of homemade desserts with family and friends.

Feel free to explore additional nutritional tips and learn about the benefits of ingredients like Greek yogurt or coconut oil in making your desserts both delicious and nutritious. You might want to check out resources from the USDA FoodData Central for even more insights into the nutritional benefits of strawberries and other components of this recipe!

FAQs about Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the strawberry sheet shortcake a day in advance. Just bake the cake, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can frost it just before serving to ensure the frosting stays fresh and fluffy. This is a great time-saver, especially if you're planning for a gathering!

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover strawberry sheet shortcake can be stored in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What can I substitute to make this healthier?

To give your strawberry sheet shortcake a healthier twist, try these substitutions:

Swap out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia.
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Consider Greek yogurt instead of sour cream — it’s lower in fat and high in protein.

With these adjustments, you can still enjoy a delicious dessert without the guilt!

Conclusion on Strawberry Sheet Shortcake

Recap of the joy of homemade desserts

There's something truly magical about creating your own desserts. Whether it’s the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen or the satisfaction of sharing your baked treasures with friends and family, homemade desserts like strawberry sheet shortcake offer a unique joy that store-bought treats cannot match.

Encouragement to try making the recipe

So why not give it a go? This strawberry sheet shortcake is not only straightforward to make but bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a delightful treat for yourself. Dive into baking—your taste buds will thank you!