Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Cake
A layered gluten-free strawberry shortcake cake with soft sponge, whipped cream, and juicy strawberries. Inspired by Tuscan traditions and made to impress at any gathering, without the gluten, but full of joy.
Equipment
- 2 8-inch Cake Pans
- mixing bowls
- hand mixer or stand mixer
- wire rack
- rubber spatula
Ingredients
Cake Layers
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free 1:1 baking flour with xanthan gum
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup neutral oil or melted butter
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or dairy milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Whipped Cream
- 1 1/2 cups cold heavy whipping cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- extra strawberries
- mint leaves
- coconut whipped cream as dairy-free garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until light and smooth. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between pans. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, toss sliced strawberries with maple syrup and lemon juice. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes to macerate.
- Beat the cold cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Keep it chilled until ready to use.
- To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate. Spread with whipped cream, then spoon on half the strawberries. Top with the second layer and repeat.
- Chill the finished cake for 30 minutes before slicing for the best texture and presentation.
Notes
Use fresh berries for best flavor. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and maple syrup. Wrap and chill layers in advance to ease assembly. Add mint or streusel for variations.
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