Vegan Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe

Need a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering that won’t have you missing the party? I have the perfect answer. This Vegan Strawberry Shortcake Cake is my not-so-secret weapon for effortless entertaining. If you love strawberry desserts, you might also enjoy our decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake.

It looks like it came from a fancy bakery. I promise you, it’s incredibly easy to put together. We’re talking tender vanilla cake, sweet berries, and clouds of dairy free cream. It’s a plant based dessert that impresses everyone.

Let me show you how to make a dessert that gets all the compliments, while you get to relax with your guests. This recipe is all about smart, simple steps for a stunning result.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Category: Dessert
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling)
• Servings: 10-12

Why This is My Go-To for Guests

I choose this cake time and again because it checks every box for a great host. First, it’s universally loved. Who doesn’t smile at the sight of strawberry shortcake?

It also gracefully handles dietary needs without feeling like a compromise. The vegan baking here is so good, no one will guess it’s egg free and dairy free. It’s a true crowd-pleaser.

Most importantly, it’s forgiving. The layers don’t need to be perfectly level, and the cream is meant to look soft and rustic. That’s the beauty of it. You get a gorgeous, impressive dessert without any fuss.

Make-Ahead Magic: My Hosting Secret

This is the key to my calm. You can do almost everything in advance. I always bake the cake layers a day or two before the party. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and store them at room temperature.

You can also wash, hull, and slice your strawberries a day ahead. Keep them in a sealed container in the fridge. The coconut whip can be made the morning of your event.

When your guests arrive, you simply assemble. It takes just 15 minutes. You walk out with a masterpiece, looking like the most relaxed host ever. For another fantastic make-ahead treat perfect for parties, try our Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow.

The “Wow Factor” Ingredients

Simple ingredients make this magic happen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Cake: All-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and non-dairy milk (like almond or oat).
• For the Filling & Frosting: Two cans of full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight) or pre-made vegan whipped topping, powdered sugar, and more vanilla.
• The Star: Two pounds of fresh, ripe strawberries.
• Optional Glaze: A little strawberry jam thinned with water for a shiny berry topping.

How to Prepare Your Dish (Step-by-Step)

1. Start with the cake. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: non-dairy milk, oil, vanilla, and vinegar. Pour the wet mix into the dry and stir until just combined.
4. Divide the batter between your pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pans.
5. Make your coconut whip. Scoop the solid cream from your chilled coconut milk cans into a cold bowl. Whip with powdered sugar and vanilla until you get soft peaks.
6. Slice most of your strawberries. Save a few perfect ones for the top.
7. To assemble, place one cake layer on your plate. Spread a layer of cream, then a thick layer of sliced berries. Add the second cake layer.
8. Frost the top and sides with the remaining cream. Pile the rest of the sliced berries in the center. Add your whole berries for decoration. For a glossy finish, brush the top berries with the optional jam glaze.
9. Chill for at least an hour before serving to let everything set nicely.

How to Serve This Like a Pro

Presentation is simple but effective. I always use a beautiful cake stand. It instantly makes any dessert feel special.

Right before serving, I add a final dusting of powdered sugar over the top. It looks like a light snowfall and brightens the whole dish.

Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife to slice. Dip it in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for beautifully clean slices. This little trick makes a huge difference.

Perfect Pairings (What to Drink & Serve With It)

This cake is lovely with a cup of coffee or tea at the end of a meal. For something more festive, I love serving it with a glass of chilled Prosecco or a sparkling rosé.

If you’re building a full dessert table, keep the flavors light and fresh. A platter of mixed berries, some dark chocolate-dipped oranges, or simple vanilla sorbet all work beautifully alongside it.

Nutrition Notes

• This is a plant based dessert, so it’s naturally cholesterol-free.
• Using coconut cream provides healthy plant fats.
• Strawberries add a great dose of Vitamin C and fiber.
• As with any celebratory cake, it’s a treat meant to be enjoyed in the spirit of good company.

Your Entertaining FAQs

Here are answers to the questions I get asked most often.

Can I make this completely nut-free?

Absolutely. Just make sure to use a nut-free non-dairy milk, like oat milk or soy milk. Check that your vegan whipped topping is also nut-free if you’re not making the coconut whip.

My coconut cream won’t whip! What happened?

This is common. The cans must be chilled overnight. Also, make sure you’re only using the solid cream, not the watery liquid at the bottom of the can. Your bowl and beaters should be cold, too.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

I don’t recommend it for the fresh layers, as they release too much water. However, you can use thawed and well-drained frozen berries to make a cooked compote for between the layers if fresh aren’t in season.

I hope this recipe becomes your new entertaining staple. It has saved my hosting sanity more times than I can count. For a cozy, savory counterpart to all this sweetness, you’ll love our hearty Dairy-Free Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy your own party. This cake lets you do just that. It’s a beautiful, delicious way to end any meal on a high note.

I’d love to hear how your party went! Did your guests rave about it? Leave a comment and a rating below!