
Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 shortcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the perfect summer dessert with this Classic Strawberry Shortcake! Made with buttery, flaky shortcakes, fresh juicy strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream, this homemade treat is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe will bring sweetness to your table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus 1 cup for whipping)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 3/4 cup heavy cream until just combined (do not overmix).
- Drop dough by spoonfuls onto the baking sheet to make 8 to 10 shortcakes.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice shortcakes in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and top with the other half.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, toss the strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar before layering.
- Use cold butter for flakier shortcakes.
- Substitute store-bought biscuits for a quick version.
Strawberry Shortcake is a timeless dessert that combines tender, buttery shortcakes with fresh, juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream. This delightful treat is perfect for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or simply indulging in a sweet, fruity delight. With its light texture and balanced sweetness, it is a dessert that brings joy in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for summer when strawberries are at their peak.
- A classic, nostalgic dessert that evokes fond memories.
- Versatile—can be customized with different fruits or toppings.
- Elegant yet effortless, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream (beaten to soft peaks)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of heavy cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet to form 8 to 10 shortcakes.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
- Slice each shortcake in half, layer with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, then place the top on. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8-10 shortcakes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Berry Medley Shortcake: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful twist.
- Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-flavored shortcake.
- Lemon Zest Shortcake: Mix in a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover shortcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate the strawberries and whipped cream separately.
- Reheating: If desired, reheat shortcakes in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
- Freezing: Shortcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make the shortcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the shortcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble them with strawberries and whipped cream just before serving.
2. How do I keep my shortcakes from being too dry?
To ensure soft shortcakes, do not overmix the dough and do not overbake them. Also, serving them with plenty of strawberries and whipped cream helps keep them moist.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture that could make the shortcakes soggy.
4. What is the best way to whip cream?
Use cold heavy cream and beat it with a whisk or mixer until soft peaks form. Adding a bit of sugar and vanilla enhances the flavor.
5. Can I use store-bought biscuits instead of making shortcakes from scratch?
Yes, store-bought biscuits can be a quick alternative, but homemade shortcakes provide the best texture and flavor.
6. What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free whipped topping for a lighter alternative.
7. How do I prevent the shortcakes from becoming soggy?
Assemble them just before serving, and avoid letting the strawberries sit too long with sugar, as they release juice that can soften the shortcakes.
8. Can I make mini strawberry shortcakes?
Yes, simply make smaller portions of dough and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness around 8-10 minutes.
9. How do I sweeten the strawberries?
You can macerate them by tossing them with a tablespoon of sugar and letting them sit for 15-20 minutes to release their natural juices.
10. What other toppings can I add?
Try drizzling honey, chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that highlights the freshness of strawberries, the richness of whipped cream, and the tender texture of homemade shortcakes. Whether for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a personal treat, this classic recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
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