Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer with its sweet, juicy strawberries and light, buttery shortcakes. It’s perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a quick dessert to impress guests. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream creates a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this strawberry shortcake recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Fresh Flavor: The use of fresh strawberries ensures each bite is packed with vibrant flavor, making it an irresistible summer dessert.
• Versatile Options: You can customize this recipe by adding different fruits or flavors to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual summer dinner, this dessert fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry shortcake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry cutter (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution while baking the shortcakes.
• Hand mixer: Makes whipping cream easy and quick, ensuring soft peaks are achieved effortlessly.

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.

For the Strawberry Filling

• 1 and ½ pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Shortcakes

• 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

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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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 the juices to form.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

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 it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. Pour in the milk and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Stir just until combined; avoid overmixing as this can make shortcakes tough.

Step 5: Bake the Shortcakes

1. Drop large spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to form six shortcakes.
2. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown on top.
3. Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Whip the Cream

1. In a separate bowl, pour in cold heavy whipping cream.
2. Add powdered sugar and remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Beat with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 7: Assemble Your Shortcake

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

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your delicious homemade strawberry shortcake right away for optimal freshness!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Serving your Strawberry Shortcake Recipe can be as delightful as making it. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this classic dessert that everyone will love.

Individual Servings

• Serve each shortcake in a small bowl for a personal touch.
• Garnish with a mint leaf on top for added freshness.

Family Style

• Arrange the shortcakes on a platter and serve with a side of whipped cream and strawberries.
• Allow guests to help themselves, making it a fun and interactive dessert experience.

Dessert Parfaits

• Layer chopped shortcake pieces, strawberries, and whipped cream in clear cups.
• This presentation is visually appealing and perfect for gatherings.

Ice Cream Topping

• Top your strawberry shortcake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy texture.
• This combination enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Perfecting your Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is easy when you keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh strawberries: The quality of strawberries greatly affects the flavor. Choose ripe, sweet berries for the best results.
• Chill your mixing bowl: For whipped cream that holds peaks better, chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream.
• Avoid overmixing: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the shortcakes tender.
• Experiment with flavors: Add lemon zest or almond extract to the biscuit dough for a unique twist on traditional flavor.
• Serve immediately: Strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed fresh. Prepare everything ahead of time but assemble just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Shortcake Recipe can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the cake.
2. Minted Lemonade: This refreshing drink balances the richness of the dessert with its zesty flavor.
3. Grilled Peaches: The caramelized sweetness of grilled peaches pairs beautifully with strawberry shortcake.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic side that complements the fruity dessert well; opt for homemade for an extra treat.
5. Chocolate-Covered Nuts: Crunchy and sweet, these provide a nice contrast to the soft textures of the cake.
6. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses balances sweetness and offers savory notes alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect strawberry shortcake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough shortcakes. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Using Warm Strawberries: Warm strawberries will not have the same fresh taste. Always let them sit in sugar for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in unevenly baked shortcakes. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before baking.
• Skipping the Whipped Cream: Whipped cream adds richness that balances the sweetness of strawberries. Don’t skip this step if you want a true strawberry shortcake experience.
• Using Old Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for flavor. Always select ripe, seasonal strawberries for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep whipped cream separate from the shortcakes to maintain texture.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Freeze individual shortcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped shortcakes in a freezer-safe bag; they last up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze strawberries and whipped cream separately.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain texture.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the cake soggy.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to sweeten strawberries for a Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?

Sweeten fresh strawberries with granulated sugar and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. This will release their juices and create a delicious syrup.

How do I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?

You can customize your strawberry shortcake by adding different fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or by using flavored whipped cream like vanilla or almond.

Can I make this Strawberry Shortcake Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like whipped cream and strawberry filling ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble just before serving.

What is the difference between biscuit-style and sponge cake-style strawberry shortcake?

Biscuit-style uses a dough similar to scones while sponge cake-style is lighter and fluffier. Choose based on your texture preference!

Final Thoughts

This strawberry shortcake recipe offers a delightful balance of buttery shortcakes, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether serving at family gatherings or enjoying as a quick summer dessert, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate summer dessert with this easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe. Each bite features tender, buttery shortcakes layered with sweet, juicy strawberries and freshly whipped cream. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a simple treat to impress guests, this delightful recipe captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Slice strawberries and sprinkle with sugar; let sit for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; cut in butter until crumbly.
4. Add milk and vanilla; mix until just combined.
5. Drop dough onto a baking sheet; bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
6. Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
7. Assemble by layering strawberries and whipped cream between shortcake halves.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 shortcake (125g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing lemon zest into the dough or using almond extract. Serve immediately for the best freshness but can be prepared in advance—just store components separately.