If you’re ready to indulge in a dessert that bursts with juicy sweetness and tender crumb, this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a wonderful celebration of fresh strawberries nestled between fluffy homemade biscuits and cloud-like whipped cream. This dish brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors, offering a delightful treat that feels both nostalgic and refreshing—ideal for any season when you crave something special but simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From the buttery richness to the fresh brightness of strawberries, every element works together beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness to the shortcake biscuits.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to make the biscuits rise fluffy and light.
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the biscuits without overpowering.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter (cold, diced): Creates a flaky texture when cut into the flour mixture.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (cold): Moistens the dough and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup milk (cold): Helps bring the dough together and keeps it tender.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm vanilla note.
- 1 1/2 lbs strawberries (hulled and sliced): The star of the dish, providing juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Macerates the strawberries, turning them irresistibly syrupy.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into soft peaks for the luxurious cream topping.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just right without heaviness.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream for extra depth of flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by hulling and slicing your fresh strawberries into even pieces. Toss them in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This process, known as maceration, draws the natural juices out of the strawberries, creating that luscious syrup that soaks into the shortcakes later.
Step 2: Make the Shortcake Biscuits
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add the cold diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract gently until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough if you want your shortcakes tender and fluffy.
Step 3: Bake the Shortcakes
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out rounds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool on a rack before the delicious assembly.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
While the biscuits cool, whip the 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 1/2 Tbsp sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream is the perfect finale of lightness and richness, complementing the strawberries and biscuits perfectly.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mint leaves are a lovely, unexpected garnish that adds a pop of green and a hint of refreshing aroma when placed atop the whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the berries adds just a touch of elegance and sweetness as well.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is so delightful on its own that it rarely needs sides, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade can elevate the experience. For a brunch gathering, a light fruit salad or nutty granola complements it beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your strawberry shortcake into clear glass jars or trifle bowls for a stunning layered look. Alternatively, slicing the shortcakes horizontally and stacking them like mini towers with berries and cream creates a fun interactive dessert that’s a hit with guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover shortcakes, strawberries, and whipped cream in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The biscuits stay best stored at room temperature for a day or two but refrigerating them wrapped tightly helps extend their life. Store macerated strawberries and whipped cream chilled to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked biscuit dough by shaping it into a disk and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. When ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s best not to freeze assembled shortcakes to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm the biscuits gently in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their tender crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Always add strawberries and whipped cream fresh when serving for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?
While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen if fresh aren’t available. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before tossing with sugar to prevent soggy shortcakes.
What’s the best way to get flaky biscuits?
Using cold butter and not overworking the dough is key to flaky biscuits. The small chunks of butter create steam pockets as they bake, resulting in layers of tender flakiness.
How long can I store whipped cream?
Freshly whipped cream is best consumed within 1-2 days of whipping. Keep it tightly covered in the fridge to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Is there a vegan version of this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy butter with a vegan alternative, use plant-based milk and cream, and choose a sugar that’s vegan-friendly. The biscuits might be slightly different in texture but still delicious.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can macerate the strawberries a few hours ahead and whip the cream shortly before serving. The biscuit dough can be made and stored in the fridge overnight before baking fresh.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely heartwarming about making and sharing this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe. It’s a sweet reminder of sunshine and simple joys in life, perfect for gathering friends or indulging in a moment just for yourself. I truly hope you enjoy making this classic treat as much as I do; once you try it, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.
