Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

this RECIPE

Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

There’s something utterly delightful about a Strawberry Shortcake Recipe that can whisk you away on a sweet summer day. This dessert is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of fresh strawberries nestled between fluffy layers of shortcake and dollops of whipped cream. It’s perfect for busy moms like me, who want to impress their loved ones without spending the entire afternoon in the kitchen. With this recipe, you can create a stunning and delicious dessert in under an hour. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring a little sunshine to our plates!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe shines for its simplicity and deliciousness. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a dessert that feels gourmet yet feels like a warm hug. It’s quick enough for a last-minute gathering, and the fresh strawberries dance on your tongue! The best part? You’ll spark joy in every bite without the stress. Trust me; your family will be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is an essential part of mastering this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Strawberry Topping: Juicy, ripe strawberries make this dessert shine. Choose sweet, fresh ones for the best flavor. You could also consider using frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our shortcake, this flour gives the cake a light and fluffy texture. Make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
• Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tartness of the strawberries. Feel free to replace it with a sugar alternative for a healthier twist.
• Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt amplifies flavors and helps to elevate the entire dessert. It’s a small but mighty ingredient!
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent makes the shortcake rise beautifully while giving it that tender crumb. Always check the expiration date!
• Butter: Cold butter is key to achieving a rich, flaky texture. Use unsalted butter for better control over sweetness.
• Egg: A large cold egg adds moisture and richness. The chill helps create a fluffier texture.
• Buttermilk: This tangy liquid gives the shortcake a slight tartness and contributes to its fluffy texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with a splash of vinegar as a quick substitute.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for making luscious whipped cream, this ingredient adds a luxurious touch to your dessert. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Powdered Sugar: This sugar adds just the right sweetness and helps stabilize the whipped cream. If you want to keep it lighter, feel free to reduce the amount.
• Vanilla: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavors and adds a lovely aromatic note to the whipped cream.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article, where I’ve included a handy printable version! Let’s dive into the next steps and turn these ingredients into something magical.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Now, let’s bring this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe to life! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be amazed at what your kitchen can do. Each step contributes to that fluffy shortcake and sweet fruit topping we all adore.

Prepare the Fresh Strawberry Topping

Start by washing and cutting your ripe strawberries into slices. Combine them in a bowl with a sprinkle of sugar. The sugar helps to draw out their natural juices, creating a lovely syrupy topping. You can let this sit for about 20 minutes. The longer they rest, the more they thicken. Perfect for spooning over the cake later!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and baking powder. This blend is crucial for that perfect shortcake texture. Make sure it’s well mixed, so every bite is consistently delicious. The right dry ingredients set the foundation for our masterpiece.

Incorporate the Butter

Now for the fun part! Cut your cold butter into small chunks. Add it to the flour mixture. With a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. The bits of butter will create little pockets of flakiness in our cake. This step is like a secret handshake for flaky friends!

Create the Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk your cold egg into the cold buttermilk until blended. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter blend. Use a spatula to gently mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overwork it; we want it tender, not tough. It’s like a gentle hug for the ingredients!

Knead and Roll the Dough

Next, knead the dough a few times right in the bowl. If it’s too sticky, add a splash more cold buttermilk or ice water. Once it’s cohesive, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 1 and 1/4 inch thick. Folding the dough over twice layers flavors and texture to your shortcakes.

Cut Out the Shortcakes

Take a biscuit cutter and cut out your shortcakes without twisting the cutter. Twisting can seal the edges, keeping them from rising properly. Place them snugly together in your greased baking pan, which helps them stay moist during baking. This is where the magic happens—so make them as pretty as YOU wish!

Prepare for Baking

Freeze your shortcakes for about 20 minutes. This helps them hold their shape. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. After freezing, brush the tops with a bit of cold buttermilk and sprinkle with sugar. This creates a gorgeous golden crust that you just can’t resist!

Bake the Shortcakes

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell will be divine, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste right then and there! Let them cool slightly before assembling, so the whipped cream doesn’t melt away.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. You want it fluffy, like the clouds on a perfect summer day. Be careful not to overbeat; this will turn it into butter, and we want dreamy whipped cream, not a butter disaster!

Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake

Time to layer! Take a warm shortcake and slice it in half. Spoon a generous amount of the sweet strawberry topping in between the layers, followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Top it off with the other half. Serve with a smile, and you’ll see everyone’s face light up! Trust me, there’s no greater joy than homemade Strawberry Shortcake!

Tips for Success

• Always use cold ingredients; they help create a flaky shortcake.
• Don’t overmix your dough; it should be light and fluffy!
• Consider freezing the shortcakes for 20 minutes before baking for better rise.
• Feel free to adjust the sugar in the whipped cream to fit your taste.
• Experiment with different fresh fruits for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for dry ingredients and a medium bowl for wet ingredients. Any sturdy bowl will do!
• Biscuit Cutter: A round cookie cutter or even a glass works as a great alternative.
• Baking Pan: A basic baking sheet or any oven-safe dish can be used.
• Whisk: A hand whisk or electric mixer will help you blend effortlessly.
• Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for mixing and folding your dough.

Variations of Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. This allows everyone to enjoy the sweet treat!
• Berry Medley: Instead of just strawberries, mix in blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream. It adds a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg.
• Layered Trifle: Create a beautiful trifle by layering the shortcake pieces, strawberries, and whipped cream in a glass dish for a stunning centerpiece.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Fresh Mint: Garnish with sprigs of fresh mint for a vibrant touch and added aroma.
• Iced Tea: Serve with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a perfect summer pairing.
• Presentation: Place shortcakes on cute dessert plates for an inviting look.
• Fruit Salad: Accompany with a side of fresh fruit salad for added sweetness and crunch.
• Chocolate Shavings: Consider topping with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Can I make the shortcake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked shortcakes for up to two months. Just remember to bake them straight from the freezer for a fresh, homemade taste.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and voilà! You’ll have a great substitute.

How do I prevent my shortcakes from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, assemble your shortcakes just before serving. This way, the shortcakes maintain their fluffy texture without getting too moist!

Can I use different fruits for the topping?
Definitely! While strawberries are a classic, you can get creative with other berries or even peaches. Each fruit brings its unique flavor to this scrumptious dessert.

Is this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful dessert for everyone to enjoy. Add your favorite twists without compromising the base recipe!

Final Thoughts

Every time I whip up this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe, it feels like a mini celebration in my kitchen. The laughter, the sweet scent of strawberries, and the joyful faces around the table remind me that some of life’s best moments are found in simple pleasures. This dessert is not just about the flavors; it’s about creating memories with family. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy night at home, the joy of homemade strawberry shortcake brings everyone together. So grab those ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories worth savoring!

Print