I’ve always loved how strawberry shortcake brings together simple, fresh ingredients to create something truly special. The flaky biscuits, juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream feel like a celebration of summer in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, there’s something comforting about this classic dessert. I’ll walk you through the steps so you can see just how easy it is to make magic in your own kitchen.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Strawberry Shortcake recipe is a delightful treat that combines simplicity with irresistible flavors.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect Balance: Enjoy the harmony of sweet strawberries, fluffy cake, and creamy whipped cream.
- Versatile: Ideal for desserts, snacks, or even a special breakfast treat.
Recipe
A classic strawberry shortcake recipe combines tender, buttery biscuits with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert that celebrates the sweetness of summer. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is both simple to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gradually add to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times. Pat into a 1-inch thick circle and cut into 6-8 wedges or rounds.
- Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with heavy cream, and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
- While the biscuits cool, toss the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Split the biscuits in half. Spoon strawberries with their juices onto the bottom halves, top with whipped cream, and cover with the biscuit tops. Serve immediately.
Notes:
- Use cold butter and cream for flaky biscuits.
- Store biscuits and whipped cream separately if preparing ahead.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving:
6-8
Calories:
Approximately 350 per serving
Cuisine:
American
Equipment
To make strawberry shortcake, having the right equipment guarantees a smooth baking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Baking sheet or cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Serrated knife
- Pastry brush
Nutrition
Strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that offers a balance of flavors and nutrients. While it is a sweet treat, it also provides some essential vitamins and minerals due to its ingredients.
- Calories: Moderate, primarily from carbohydrates and fats
- Vitamin C: From fresh strawberries, supporting immune health
- Fiber: From the shortcake and strawberries, aiding digestion
- Calcium: From whipped cream or dairy components, promoting bone health
- Antioxidants: Abundant in strawberries, helping fight free radicals
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I serve strawberry shortcake, I love adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra richness. A colorful fruit salad on the side adds a revitalizing touch, while a warm cup of tea or coffee balances the sweetness perfectly. For a fancier twist, I’ve even paired it with a glass of chilled champagne—it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Additionally, incorporating fresh strawberries can enhance the dessert’s flavor and provide a refreshing contrast to its sweetness, making it a wonderful way to enjoy strawberry benefits.
Fresh Whipped Cream
There’s something magical about fresh whipped cream—it’s light, fluffy, and has a way of turning any dessert into something special. When I make it at home, I keep it simple: cold heavy cream, a touch of sugar, and a splash of vanilla. My homemade tip? Use a chilled bowl and whisk for the fluffiest results. It’s so easy, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Ice Cream Pairings
Since strawberry shortcake is already a crowd-pleaser, topping it with ice cream takes it to the next level. I love how the creamy ice cream texture complements the crumbly cake and juicy strawberries. Try classic vanilla for simplicity or experiment with bold flavor combinations like salted caramel or mint chocolate. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that lets you make this dessert uniquely yours.
Fruit Salad Addition
While strawberry shortcake is a star on its own, pairing it with a vibrant fruit salad can make your dessert spread even more irresistible. I love experimenting with a fruit combination that balances sweet and tangy, like mangoes, blueberries, and kiwi. Seasonal variations keep it fresh—think peaches in summer or pears in fall. It’s a simple way to add color, flavor, and a revitalizing twist to your feast.
Tea or Coffee
After enjoying an invigorating fruit salad alongside strawberry shortcake, I often find myself reaching for a warm drink to complete the experience. My tea preferences lean toward Earl Grey or chamomile for their soothing notes, while I also love exploring coffee origins, like Ethiopian or Colombian, for their rich, bold flavors. Either choice feels like the perfect companion to balance the sweetness of the dessert.
Champagne Option
A glass of champagne can be the perfect way to elevate your strawberry shortcake experience, adding a touch of sparkle to every bite. I love how this celebratory pairing feels indulgent yet light, matching the dessert’s freshness perfectly. A sparkling toast makes even an ordinary day feel special. Trust me, the blend of sweet strawberries and bubbly champagne creates a moment of pure joy you’ll want to savor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Time melts like frost in sunlight, but frozen strawberries hold their essence tight. I’ve swapped fresh for frozen in recipes and found the flavor comparison surprisingly close—freedom’s in the choice, and frozen works just as bright.
Is There a Gluten-Free Version of This Recipe?
Yes, I’ve found gluten-free flours like almond or oat work perfectly for this recipe. I also swap in alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar to keep it free from refined options while maintaining flavor.
How Long Can I Store Strawberry Shortcake in the Fridge?
I’d store it covered in the fridge for up to two days to keep it fresh. For better shelf life, separate the layers or add whipped cream just before serving. Storage tips like this guarantee it stays delicious.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Turning a classic into a plant-based masterpiece is like revealing a new world—I’d swap dairy alternatives like coconut cream for heavy cream and use vegan substitutes such as flax eggs for a guilt-free, liberating twist.
What’S the Best Way to Hull Strawberries?
I’ve found the best hulling methods include using a small knife to cut around the stem or a strawberry huller for precision. My favorite strawberry hulling tips? Twist the stem gently or simply scoop it out cleanly.
