This strawberry shortcake lasagna cake comes together in layers. The most important tip is to let the cake cool completely before adding the icing, vanilla wafers, fresh strawberries, and glaze.

Step 1: Bake the cake

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the shortening and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Add the flour mixture in 3 additions, alternating with the milk in 2 additions. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition.

Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake in the oven on the middle rack at 350 degrees for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before adding strawberries, whipped cream, and glaze.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until fluffy. Add the vanilla, then slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream and continue mixing until the icing becomes thick, fluffy, and firm enough to spread.

Once the cake is fully cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese icing over the top. Make sure the cake is not warm, or the icing will soften and become harder to layer.

Place rows of vanilla wafers over the icing. They add a sweet cookie layer and help give this dessert its fun strawberry shortcake lasagna layer.

Slice the fresh strawberries lengthwise, then layer them over the icing. Try to spread them evenly so every slice gets plenty of strawberry flavor.

Add another layer of icing, followed by another layer of vanilla wafers. Finish with a final layer of icing and strawberries.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours before serving. This helps the layers set and makes the cake easier to slice.

Right before serving, drizzle strawberry glaze over the top and add extra fresh strawberries if desired. This gives the cake a beautiful finish and a sweeter strawberry flavor.