Strawberry shortcake is like the summer sun on a plate, bursting with juicy sweetness and creamy goodness that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into layers of fluffy cake topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream that feel like a warm hug from Grandma, bringing back memories of sunny picnics and family gatherings. baked oats variation.
Every time I whip up this strawberry shortcake, it feels like a mini celebration. It’s the kind of dessert that can turn an ordinary Tuesday into a festive occasion, making you want to grab a fork and dig in right away. perfect dessert pairing Whether it’s a birthday bash or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town! For more inspiration, check out this Decadent Peanut Butter Brownies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Strawberry shortcake is incredibly easy to make, so even kitchen novices can shine
- The combination of flavors creates a delightful explosion in every bite
- Its vibrant colors make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Perfect for summer parties or cozy family dinners, this dessert will always impress
I remember the first time I made this strawberry shortcake for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bite, followed by enthusiastic “Mmm’s” and “Wow’s.” It was an instant favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries that are bright red for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: A staple that provides structure; sift it to ensure your cake is light and fluffy.
- Granulated Sugar: Use this for sweetness; adjust based on how sweet your strawberries are.
- Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise; check for freshness to ensure good results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Use room-temperature butter for easy mixing and rich flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Look for high-fat cream for the best whipped topping; it whips up beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Strawberries: Start by washing and hulling about 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Slice them thinly and mix with a tablespoon of sugar to create a sweet syrup while you prepare the cake.
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Create the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Then add ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and mix until crumbly.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in ¾ cup of milk along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake light!
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Whip Your Cream: While the cake cools, grab about 1 cup of heavy cream and beat it in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Add sugar gradually to taste—don’t forget to include some vanilla extract too!
Now you’re ready to assemble! Slice your cooled cake horizontally into two layers if it has puffed up nicely. Spread half your macerated strawberries on top of one layer, followed by half of your whipped cream. Place the second layer on top and repeat with remaining strawberries and cream for that Instagram-worthy finish!
Enjoy every mouthwatering bite as you savor summer’s sweetest gift wrapped in layers of love!
You Must Know
- Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that brings joy with its sweet, juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream
- Ensure your strawberries are ripe for the best flavor, and use fresh ingredients for an unforgettable treat
- This delightful dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy evenings at home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate strawberry shortcake, start by baking the biscuits first. While they cool, slice fresh strawberries and whip your cream to perfection. This sequence ensures every component is fresh and delicious. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional biscuits for angel food cake or even gluten-free options. You can also try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for added flavor. cozy breakfast option.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover strawberry shortcake, keep components separate in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to two days but enjoy them quickly to maintain freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When whipping cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are cold for better results
- For even sweeter strawberries, sprinkle them with sugar beforehand to draw out the juices
- Layering your cake just before serving keeps everything fresh and avoids sogginess
Memories of my grandmother making strawberry shortcake flood my mind; her laughter filled the kitchen as she tossed strawberries into the air, always catching them in a bowl just in time. fresh fruit smoothie bowl.
FAQ
How do I choose ripe strawberries for my shortcake?
Look for bright red berries with a fragrant aroma; avoid dull or overly soft ones.
Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components separately and assemble just before serving for best results.
What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
Try using coconut cream or Greek yogurt as alternatives for the whipped topping.
Strawberry Shortcake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Strawberry shortcake captures the essence of summer with its layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. This delightful dessert combines juicy sweetness and creamy goodness, making every bite a nostalgic treat reminiscent of sunny picnics and family gatherings. Easy to prepare, this recipe transforms any occasion into a celebration, perfect for birthdays or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tbsp for strawberries)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries. Mix with 1 tablespoon of sugar and set aside.
- 2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- 3. Make Cake Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- 4. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- 5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
- 6. Whip Cream: Beat heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form; add sugar and vanilla to taste.
- 7. Assemble: Slice the cooled cake horizontally into two layers. Layer with half of the macerated strawberries and whipped cream on one layer; repeat for the second layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing lemon zest into the whipped cream or substituting traditional biscuits with angel food cake. - Store components separately in airtight containers for up to two days to maintain freshness.