Strawberry Shortcake Layered Cake

Ingredients:

– **For the cake layers:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk

– **For the filling:**
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

– **For the topping:**
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
– Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs (optional)

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Cake Layers:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
– In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
– Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. **Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

3. **Assemble the Cake:**
– Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then arrange a layer of sliced strawberries over the cream.
– Place the second cake layer on top of the strawberries. Spread more whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake.
– Arrange the halved strawberries on top of the cake. Optionally, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs around the edges for added texture and flavor.

4. **Chill and Serve:**
– Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the fresh and creamy layers of this delightful strawberry shortcake.

Enjoy your delicious homemade strawberry shortcake layered cake!