Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries nestled between layers of fluffy, buttery shortcake. This classic strawberry shortcake recipe is the perfect dessert for summer gatherings or a simple treat at home. Imagine biting into a soft biscuit layered with whipped cream and ripe strawberries – it’s pure bliss on a plate.
This dessert is all about celebrating the vibrant flavors of strawberries. The combination of sweet cream and tender shortcake creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just wanting to indulge, this strawberry shortcake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
The Allure of Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake stands as a timeless dessert, beloved for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. The combination of soft, golden biscuits teamed with juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream creates a delightful experience for the taste buds.
With each bite, the buttery texture of the biscuits melts in your mouth, beautifully complementing the sweet, tart strawberries. This dessert not only satisfies a sweet craving but also captures the essence of summer dining.
Ingredients That Shine
The magic of strawberry shortcake lies in its fresh ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious dessert.
Fresh strawberries are the stars, showcasing their vibrant color and natural sweetness, while the buttery biscuits provide a tender base. Topped with whipped cream, this treat comes together to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Making the Shortcake Biscuits
The shortcake biscuits are easy to prepare and can be made in just a short time. Begin by combining flour, baking powder, and salt, then cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Incorporating heavy cream and vanilla into the mix enhances the flavors, resulting in a sumptuous dough. After shaping and cutting out the biscuits, brushing them with cream before baking ensures a beautiful golden finish.
Preparing the Strawberries
To truly elevate the strawberries, macerating them is key. Tossing the sliced berries with sugar allows them to release their juices, intensifying their flavor and creating a luscious syrup.
Letting the berries sit for a while ensures they become irresistibly sweet, making them the perfect pairing for the shortcakes.
Whipping Up the Cream
No strawberry shortcake is complete without a generous dollop of whipped cream. Whipping heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form is a straightforward process that adds a light, airy component to the dessert.
The sweet cream balances the tartness of the strawberries, enhancing the overall experience and making each forkful a treat.
Assembly and Presentation
Once the biscuits are baked and cooled, it’s time to assemble the dessert. Slicing the biscuits in half and layering with the macerated strawberries and whipped cream transforms them into an impressive creation.
For that finishing touch, garnish with a whole strawberry on top. This beautiful presentation not only makes the dessert visually appealing but also invites everyone to dig in and enjoy a taste of summer.
The Perfect Strawberry Shortcake for Any Occasion
This strawberry shortcake features soft, buttery biscuits that are perfectly complemented by luscious whipped cream and sweet, fresh strawberries. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a delightful treat that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream, plus extra for whipping
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.
- Make the Shortcakes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 3/4 cup of heavy cream and vanilla until just combined.
- Shape and Bake: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Roll or pat it into a 1-inch thick circle, then cut out biscuits with a round cutter. Place them on a baking sheet and brush the tops with a little cream. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Whip the Cream: While the shortcakes are baking, whip the remaining heavy cream with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form.
- Assemble: Once the shortcakes are cool, slice them in half horizontally. Layer the bottom half with macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream, then place the top half back on. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g