Summer calls for a delightful strawberry shortcake, a classic dessert that blends fluffy biscuits, juicy strawberries, and creamy whipped cream. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a relaxed evening with friends, this treat is simple to prepare and packed with fresh flavors.
You can bake biscuits from scratch or use store-bought ones for convenience. This recipe is approachable for beginners yet impressive enough to wow a crowd. Let’s explore how to craft this summery dessert that’s sure to leave everyone craving more.
See also: Easy Mango Float Recipe
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake
Assembling a strawberry shortcake is about combining fresh ingredients to create a harmonious mix of textures and tastes. The process is straightforward: bake or purchase tender biscuits, slice ripe strawberries, whip up cream, and layer them together.
The charm of this dessert lies in its simplicity, letting the natural sweetness of strawberries shine, enhanced by buttery biscuits and light whipped cream. Below, we’ll dive into each ingredient to understand their role and how to select the best ones.
This dessert is a summer favorite because strawberries are at their juiciest during warm months, pairing beautifully with the soft texture of biscuits. The whipped cream adds a refreshing, creamy touch, making it perfect for hot days. You can serve it as individual portions or a large, shareable dessert.
Let’s explore the ingredients that make this strawberry shortcake so special.
Ingredients
High-quality, fresh ingredients are the foundation of a stellar strawberry shortcake. Each element contributes to the dessert’s perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why they matter.
Fresh Strawberries
Strawberries are the heart of this dessert. Their sweet-tart juiciness defines the dish, delivering a burst of summer in every bite. Select ripe, red strawberries that are firm but not hard. Avoid mushy ones or those with white or green spots, as they lack full flavor.
Organic strawberries are ideal to avoid pesticides, given their frequent appearance on the “Dirty Dozen” list. You’ll need about two pounds, ensuring plenty of fruit per serving. A sprinkle of sugar enhances their sweetness and creates a syrupy texture.
Granulated Sugar
Sugar plays multiple roles, sweetening the strawberries to draw out their juices, and adding a touch of sweetness to the biscuits and whipped cream. Standard granulated sugar is perfect, though organic or cane sugar offers a slight flavor variation. It balances the strawberries’ tartness and keeps the dessert light.
All-Purpose Flour
The biscuits depend on all-purpose flour for their structure. This versatile ingredient ensures a soft, flaky texture. Choose a reliable brand for consistent results. For an even lighter biscuit, you could blend all-purpose flour with cake flour, but it’s not essential.
Baking Powder
Baking powder gives the biscuits their fluffy rise. Ensure it’s fresh by checking the expiration date, as stale baking powder results in dense biscuits. Measure precisely to avoid a chemical aftertaste.
Salt
A pinch of salt amplifies the flavors in the biscuits and strawberries. Use table salt or fine sea salt for even distribution. It’s subtle but crucial for enhancing sweetness.
Unsalted Butter
Butter creates rich, tender biscuits. Cold, unsalted butter ensures flakiness without excess saltiness. Cutting it into the flour forms fat pockets that melt during baking, perfecting the biscuit’s texture. Opt for a premium brand for superior flavor.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream serves dual purposes, adding moisture and richness to the biscuits and forming the base for whipped cream. For biscuits, it ensures a soft crumb. For whipped cream, it’s whipped with sugar and vanilla extract for a fluffy topping. Use heavy cream with at least 36% fat for optimal results.
Vanilla Extract
A dash of vanilla extract enhances the whipped cream, adding a warm, aromatic note that pairs well with strawberries. Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor, bringing a refined touch to the dessert.
See also: Easy Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Recipe
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You’ll need a few basic tools to prepare this strawberry shortcake. Here’s the list with Amazon affiliate links:
- Mixing Bowl: For mixing biscuit dough and strawberries with sugar.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To whip heavy cream into whipped cream.
- Baking Sheet: For baking biscuits.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: To cut butter into flour.
- Knife: For slicing strawberries.
- Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurements of flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Instructions
With your ingredients and tools ready, let’s make this strawberry shortcake. Follow these easy steps for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Rinse 2 pounds of strawberries under cold water and pat dry.
- Remove stems and slice strawberries thinly with a knife.
- Place slices in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of sugar, and toss gently.
- Let sit for 15-20 minutes to release juices, forming a sweet syrup.
Step 2: Make the Biscuits
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Cut 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter into small pieces and add to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of heavy cream until the dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 4-5 times.
- Pat into a 1-inch thick round and cut into 6-8 circles with a biscuit cutter.
- Place biscuits on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Whip with a whisk or electric mixer until soft peaks form. Avoid overwhipping.
Step 4: Assemble the Shortcake
- Slice cooled biscuits in half horizontally.
- Spoon strawberries and syrup onto the bottom half of each biscuit.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Place the top half of the biscuit on, then add more strawberries and whipped cream.
- Serve immediately.
See also: Blueberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake Recipe
Recipe Tips
Enhance your strawberry shortcake with these tips:
- Use cold butter and heavy cream for flaky biscuits.
- Avoid overmixing the biscuit dough to keep it tender.
- Let strawberries sit with sugar for 15 minutes for a syrupy texture.
- Chill the mixing bowl for faster whipped cream.
- For a shortcut, use store-bought biscuits or pound cake.
To support a healthy lifestyle while enjoying this dessert, try Moringa Actives for metabolism or Fibre Select for digestion.
Nutritional Facts
Approximate nutritional info per serving (8 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 20g (12g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (20g sugars)
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
Values vary by portion and ingredients. For a lighter version, reduce sugar or use low-fat whipped cream. Pair with Cappuccino MCT for a metabolism boost.
Variations to Try
Customize your strawberry shortcake:
- Add blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
- Mix lemon zest into whipped cream for a citrus twist.
- Use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
- For vegan, swap butter for margarine and use coconut whipped cream.
If on a keto diet, pair with NuviaLab Keto to support weight loss.
See also: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Serving and Storage
Serve strawberry shortcake fresh to avoid soggy biscuits. Prep components separately if needed: store biscuits at room temperature for 2 days, strawberries in the fridge for 3 days, and whipped cream for 1 day. Re-whip cream if it deflates.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry shortcake is a hit for its simplicity, fresh strawberry flavor, and delightful textures. It’s quick, adaptable, and perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat. Stay energized while making it with GOAT Stamina.
See also: The Best Apple Crisp Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Shortcake
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work, but fresh ones give the best flavor and texture. Thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain excess liquid before adding sugar. They may be softer, so handle gently.
2. How do I keep biscuits from getting soggy?
Assemble the shortcake just before serving to prevent the biscuits from absorbing the strawberry syrup. Store components separately and layer when ready to eat.
3. Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?
You can prep components in advance. Bake biscuits up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container. Prepare strawberries a day ahead and refrigerate. Whip cream just before serving for best results.
4. What can I use instead of biscuits?
If you’re short on time, try pound cake or angel food cake for a different texture. Both pair well with strawberries and whipped cream.
5. How can I make a healthier version?
Reduce sugar in the strawberries or use a natural sweetener like honey. Opt for low-fat whipped cream or a dairy-free alternative. For added health benefits, consider Green Coffee 5K to support weight loss naturally.
6. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Mix in blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a colorful, flavorful twist. Adjust sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Conclusion
This strawberry shortcake recipe captures the essence of summer with its fresh, vibrant flavors and easy preparation. The combination of juicy strawberries, tender biscuits, and airy whipped cream creates a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this recipe delivers every time. Its versatility allows for creative variations, from gluten-free to vegan options, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
For a balanced lifestyle, pair this treat with supplements like Fat Burn Active to support your fitness goals or Probiosin Plus for digestive health. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of summer to your table.
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