Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan 🧈

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients 🥄

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed, then set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar 🍰

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla 🍓

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients 🍰

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cake 🍰

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping 🍓

In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake 🍓

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Then, arrange the fresh strawberries over the whipped cream in a decorative pattern.