Ingredients:

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup whole milk

For the Strawberries:

1 1/2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Prepare the Strawberries:

Combine Strawberries and Sugar:

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss to coat the strawberries in sugar. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to macerate, releasing their juices.

Make the Cake:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milks:

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk and whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the Whipped Cream:

Whip Cream:

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Strawberry Sheet Shortcake:

Layer Strawberries and Cream:

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the macerated strawberries and their juices evenly over the top of the cake. Dollop or pipe the whipped cream over the strawberries.

Serve:

Cut the cake into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy!

This Strawberry Sheet Shortcake is perfect for feeding a crowd and makes a wonderful dessert for any occasion.