Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines buttery shortcakes with sweet, juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream. Ideal for family gatherings, summer picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, this recipe captures the essence of fresh flavors and is sure to impress your guests. With its light texture and vibrant taste, it’s a dessert everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries ensures every bite bursts with flavor, highlighting the natural sweetness of summer.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it as a light summer dessert or adapt it for different occasions like birthdays or barbecues.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as chocolate shavings or nuts, to personalize your dessert.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry shortcake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry cutter or fork: Helps blend butter into flour for that perfect crumbly texture.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking shortcakes.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe is light, buttery, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or a quick summer dessert everyone will love.

Ingredients:
– 1 and ½ pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
– ⅔ cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Slice the strawberries and place them in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle ¼ cup granulated sugar over the strawberries.
3. Stir gently and set aside for at least 30 minutes to allow juices to develop.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F. This temperature is ideal for getting those delicious golden-brown tops on your shortcakes.

Step 3: Make the Shortcake Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture.
3. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture looks crumbly.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. Pour in the milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
2. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Shortcakes

1. Drop large spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating six shortcakes.
2. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Whip Cream

1. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream.
3. Add powdered sugar and another teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Beat with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 7: Assemble Your Shortcakes

1. Split each shortcake in half using a fork or your hands.
2. Spoon strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
3. Add a generous layer of whipped cream on top of the strawberries.
4. Place the top half of each shortcake over the cream.
5. Optionally add more strawberries and whipped cream on top before serving.

Enjoy!

Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Recipe at its best!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Serving your strawberry shortcake is as important as making it. Presentation can elevate the experience and make this delightful dessert even more enjoyable for your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve your strawberry shortcake.

Individual Servings

• Serve each shortcake on a small plate, topped with strawberries and whipped cream for a personal touch.
• Use clear glass cups to layer strawberries, cake, and cream for an attractive dessert display.

Family Style

• Arrange the sliced shortcakes on a large platter and let guests help themselves. This encourages sharing and adds a communal feel to your gathering.
• Create a “build-your-own” station with bowls of strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcakes so everyone can customize their dessert.

Garnish Options

• Add fresh mint leaves on top of each serving for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the whipped cream to add another layer of sweetness.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Perfecting your strawberry shortcake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better treat.

• Use ripe strawberries: The fresher and sweeter the berries, the better your dessert will taste.
• Chill the cream: Keep your whipping cream cold for fluffier results when beating it into whipped cream.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough can lead to tough shortcakes; mix just until combined.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding lemon zest or almond extract to the dough for unique flavor twists.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve your strawberry shortcake right after assembling it.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry shortcake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this sweet treat.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and extra sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the shortcake.
3. Lemonade: This zesty drink refreshes your palate while enhancing the fruity flavors of the dessert.
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch offers a nice contrast to the sweet softness of strawberry shortcake.
5. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can bring savory notes that nicely balance with dessert flavors.
6. Mint Tea: This soothing beverage pairs well with fruity desserts and aids in digestion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a strawberry shortcake recipe, it’s easy to make small missteps that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Not letting the strawberries sit – Failing to allow the strawberries to macerate can result in less flavorful fruit. Always let them sit with sugar for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough – Overworking the dough can lead to tough shortcakes. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can yield uneven results. Always preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Using warm butter – If your butter is too soft or melted, it won’t create the right flaky texture. Use cold butter cut into small pieces for best results.
• Skipping whipped cream – Whipped cream adds the perfect finishing touch. Don’t skip it; beat your cream until soft peaks form for a light, airy topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Wrap individual shortcakes tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm shortcakes for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat shortcakes on a plate for 15-20 seconds until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place shortcakes in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this strawberry shortcake recipe special?

This strawberry shortcake recipe is unique because it uses fresh strawberries and creates a light, buttery biscuit that perfectly complements the fruit’s sweetness.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this strawberry shortcake recipe?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in your recipe.

How do I customize my strawberry shortcake recipe?

You can customize this strawberry shortcake recipe by adding different fruits like blueberries or peaches or by experimenting with flavored whipped cream.

Is this strawberry shortcake recipe suitable for special diets?

You can modify this recipe to suit various diets by using gluten-free flour or dairy-free alternatives without compromising flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this strawberry shortcake recipe?

This delicious strawberry shortcake recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, making it quick and easy!

Final Thoughts

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe is not only light and buttery but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its fresh strawberry flavor and fluffy whipped cream, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings! Enjoy creating this delightful dessert!

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Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade strawberry shortcake, a classic dessert that brings together buttery shortcakes, fresh strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. With its light texture and vibrant flavors, this strawberry shortcake is sure to impress everyone at your table. Whether you dress it up with extra toppings or serve it as is, this dessert captures the essence of summer sweetness and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 and ½ pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for dough)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• ⅔ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for dough)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the strawberries by mixing them with ¼ cup sugar in a large bowl; let sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, ¼ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
5. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet; bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool for about 10 minutes; whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
8. Assemble by splitting shortcakes, layering with strawberries and whipped cream, then topping with the other half.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 shortcake (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg