Strawberry Chiffon Sheet Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake offers the perfect balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and an irresistibly soft crumb. Unlike dense butter cakes, chiffon cake is known for its airy, sponge-like texture, making each bite feel light and cloud-like. The sheet cake format means it’s easy to bake, frost, and serve to a crowd—no layers or special tools required. Plus, the fresh strawberry flavor makes this cake a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cake flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Eggs (separated into yolks and whites)

• Granulated sugar

• Vegetable oil

• Fresh strawberry purée

• Vanilla extract

• Cream of tartar

Optional Topping:

• Fresh strawberries (sliced or diced)

• Whipped cream or strawberry frosting

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease and line a 9×13-inch sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks, oil, strawberry purée, ½ the sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures and stir until just incorporated.

5. In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

6. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in batches, taking care not to deflate the mixture.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

10. Frost with whipped cream or strawberry frosting and top with fresh strawberries before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 35–40 minutes
Cool + Frost time: 60–90 minutes
Total time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours (mostly hands-off)

Variations

• Lemon-Strawberry: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.

• Berry Blend: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in the purée and topping.

• Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap whipped cream for a tangy frosting using cream cheese and puréed strawberries.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake flour blend and adjust liquids slightly if needed.

• Cupcake Version: Use the same batter in cupcake tins for individual chiffon cupcakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If using whipped cream topping, avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.
This cake does not freeze well once frosted, but the unfrosted cake can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the purée?

Yes, just thaw them fully and blend until smooth. Drain any excess liquid if too watery.

What makes chiffon cake different from regular cake?

Chiffon cake uses oil and whipped egg whites for a soft, fluffy texture that’s lighter than traditional butter-based cakes.

Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Yes, bake the cake and store it (unfrosted) at room temperature or in the fridge. Frost just before serving.

Do I have to use cake flour?

Cake flour gives the best texture. If needed, substitute with all-purpose flour and cornstarch (see measurements in the recipe card).

How do I keep the whipped cream from melting?

Keep the cake refrigerated and serve it cold, especially in warm weather.

Can I use a stand mixer for the egg whites?

Yes, a stand mixer is ideal for beating egg whites to stiff peaks quickly and evenly.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it has a balanced sweetness, especially with the fresh strawberry flavor and light topping.

Can I make this recipe into a layered cake?

Yes, divide the batter between two round pans and adjust baking time slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top springs back when gently pressed.

What frosting works best?

Whipped cream, strawberry buttercream, or strawberry cream cheese frosting all pair wonderfully with this cake.

Conclusion

Strawberry Chiffon Sheet Cake is a beautiful, airy dessert that brings a burst of fruity freshness to any occasion. Its soft texture and vibrant strawberry flavor make it a standout choice for everything from family dinners to birthday parties. Simple to make and easy to love, this cake is one you’ll want to bake again and again.

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