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There’s something magical about a classic Strawberry Shortcake that makes every bite feel like a taste of summer. Fluffy, buttery biscuits layered with sweet, juicy strawberries and topped with a dollop of whipped cream create the perfect dessert.
It’s a timeless treat that’s simple, fresh, and flavorful, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
The Best Strawberry Shortcake
This classic Strawberry Shortcake features fluffy, buttery biscuits layered with sweet, juicy strawberries and a cloud of whipped cream. It’s a simple yet irresistible dessert that celebrates the flavors of fresh strawberries and light cream.
Ingredients
For the Shortcake Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¾ cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently and set aside for at least 20-30 minutes to let the strawberries release their juices.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the butter pieces are pea-sized.
- Whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (the dough will be slightly sticky).
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, gently pat it into a ¾-inch thick rectangle, and cut out biscuits using a 2.5-inch biscuit cutter or glass rim.
- Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with a bit of heavy cream, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
- Slice the cooled biscuits in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of strawberries and their juices over the bottom half of each biscuit.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberries and place the top half of the biscuit over it. Finish with more strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the assembled shortcakes.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a touch of color and a hint of freshness.
- You can serve the shortcake biscuits warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a more refreshing experience.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Ideas
- Biscuits: Store any leftover shortcake biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Strawberries: Keep the macerated strawberries in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as they may release more juice over time.
- Whipped Cream: Store leftover whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Whisk it briefly to regain its fluffiness if it starts to deflate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the shortcake biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the biscuits a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to refresh their texture.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with sugar and lemon juice.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Absolutely! While homemade whipped cream adds a fresh, creamy texture, you can save time by using store-bought whipped cream or even whipped topping for convenience.
Wrapping it up
Strawberry Shortcake is the quintessential dessert, combining all summer’s best flavors. With its tender biscuits, sweet berries, and light whipped cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite of this delightful, classic treat!
