Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl for about 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until you see no more streaks of flour.

Pour the prepared batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Allow the base to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Evenly layer fresh sliced strawberries over the cake.

If using whipped cream, spread it evenly over the strawberry layer.

Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing. Cut into squares and serve them at room temperature.