Name: Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ¼ cup sugar; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 tablespoons cold butter; 1 cup whole milk; 1 large egg; 2 pounds fresh strawberries; 1 ¼ cups sugar (for strawberries); 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon sugar (for whipped cream); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake

Ah, strawberry shortcake! This delightful dessert evokes memories of sun-soaked picnics and laughter-filled BBQs. I still remember the first time I encountered this sweet masterpiece; I was instantly enchanted. Bursting with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and flaky shortcake, it’s truly a summer delight.

Whether you’re a busy mom navigating the whirlwind of family life or a professional trying to impress loved ones, this recipe is here to rescue you. With its simple steps and minimal prep, strawberry shortcake is the perfect treat for any gathering or cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake

This strawberry shortcake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! First off, it comes together in under 45 minutes, making it a quick fix for your sweet cravings. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream creates a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, each flaky layer of shortcake is like a warm hug, ensuring that this dessert brings smiles to faces of all ages.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of making strawberry shortcake. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

All-purpose flour: The base for your shortcake, providing the perfect structure and flakiness.
Baking powder: This key ingredient helps your shortcake rise and become light and airy.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness for both the shortcake and the strawberries. You can even adjust based on your preference!
Fine sea salt: Enhances the flavors in the dessert, bringing everything together beautifully.
Cold butter: Adds rich flavor and flakiness to the shortcake. Make sure it’s cold for the best texture!
Whole milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender, contributing to that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold all the ingredients together.
Fresh strawberries: The star of the show! Ripe, juicy strawberries make a world of difference in flavor.
Whipped cream: A necessary indulgence! It adds a luscious, creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the strawberries.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the whipped cream, making it even more delightful.

These ingredients come together in perfect harmony. If you’re short on time, feel free to substitute with store-bought shortcakes for a quicker dessert option. For variations, try experimenting with different berries like blueberries or raspberries. You’ll find the full measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of this post, perfect for printing!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake

Creating the perfect strawberry shortcake is easier than you might think. Just follow these step-by-step instructions to whip up this summer delight!

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by hulking and quartering the fresh strawberries. In a bowl, mix them with 1 ¼ cups of sugar. Let this sit for about 30 minutes. The strawberries will release their delicious juices, making a sweet syrup that’s irresistible!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Now, let’s get that oven warmed up. Preheat it to 425°F (220°C). While the oven does its thing, you can focus on the next steps happily.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, remaining sugar, and fine sea salt. Give it a good stir with a whisk or fork to ensure everything is well blended.

Step 4: Incorporate the Butter

Next up is the butter. Cut it into small pieces and then add it to your dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it looks crumbly, like the texture of sand. This step helps create those lovely flaky layers in your shortcake!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cold milk and the large egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want it just combined!

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Gently pat it down to about an inch thick. Then, use a round cutter to cut out shapes. You can be generous with the shapes, or make them small for fun bite-sized treats!

Step 7: Bake the Shortcakes

Place the shortcake rounds onto a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. They should smell heavenly by now! Let them cool slightly.

Step 8: Whip the Cream

While the shortcakes cool, it’s time for the whipped cream! Using a mixer or whisk, beat the heavy cream with a tablespoon of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Don’t rush this step; patience yields the best whipped cream!

Step 9: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake

Now comes the fun part! Slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Drizzle the bottom half with some strawberry syrup, then add a generous helping of the strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. Cap it off with the other half, and voilà—your strawberry shortcake is ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter is very cold for the best shortcake texture.
Don’t overmix the dough; a little lumpy is fine!
Use ripe strawberries to maximize sweetness and juiciness.
Feel free to add a sprig of mint for a fresh touch when serving.
Enjoy your strawberry shortcake immediately for the best experience!

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet works like a charm.
Parchment paper: If you don’t have it, a silicone baking mat is a great substitute.
Mixing bowls: Any mixing bowls will do, but I love using glass for easy visibility.
Whisk and whisking bowl: A fork can work in a pinch!
Round cutter: A glass or cup can be used to cut the dough.

Variations

For a twist on flavor, use mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries instead of just strawberries.
Try adding a zest of lemon or orange to the whipped cream for a refreshing citrus kick.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt in place of whipped cream.
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Add a splash of almond extract to the shortcake for a nutty aroma that enhances the overall experience.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake

Pair your strawberry shortcake with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful summer drink.
Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves on top of each slice.
Present on a beautiful platter, drizzled with extra strawberry syrup for visual appeal.
Enjoy it with a chocolate drizzle for a unique flavor twist!

FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake

Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the items separately in advance. Just store the whipped cream and strawberries in the fridge, and bake the shortcakes a day before. Assemble them right before serving for the best texture.

How do I store leftover strawberry shortcake?

Leftover strawberry shortcake can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just keep the components separate to maintain the shortcake’s texture. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch! Just remember to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mixing with sugar.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping. Greek yogurt also makes a tasty, lighter option.

Is strawberry shortcake a healthy dessert?

While it’s a sweet treat, you can make it healthier by reducing sugar or using whole grain flour. Enjoy in moderation, and savor every bite for a delightful experience!

Final Thoughts

Making strawberry shortcake is a joyful culinary adventure that I cherish every summer. It brings people together, creating sweet memories with each delicious bite. As you watch your loved ones savor this delightful dessert, you’ll realize it’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic or as a simple family dessert, each layer is infused with love and happiness. So grab those fresh strawberries and let the sweet simplicity of strawberry shortcake brighten your day. Trust me, it’s a treat worth every moment spent in the kitchen!