This Strawberry Shortcake recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion! It’s light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a summer picnic or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this classic treat will impress everyone. The unique twist of using a homemade strawberry syrup elevates the flavor and makes it even more delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake
This dessert has so much to offer!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries and whipped cream creates a mouthwatering treat that pleases everyone’s taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a special treat for yourself.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe strawberries ensures your dessert is filled with vibrant flavors.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making this delicious strawberry shortcake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Paring knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without making a mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your shortcakes for a uniform texture.
- Whisk: Helps in beating eggs and mixing cream quickly for fluffy results.
Ingredients
For the Shortcake
- 2 ¼ cups (292g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon (12g) aluminum-free baking powder
- 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon (2g) fine sea salt
- 3 tablespoons (42g) cold butter
- 1 cup (236ml) whole milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
For the Strawberries
- 2 pounds (907g) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 ¼ cups (250g) sugar
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 ½ cups (355ml) cold heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon (12g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by hulking and quartering the strawberries. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 ¼ cups of sugar. Stir well to coat. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create a beautifully golden brown shortcake.
Step 3: Make the Shortcake Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Cut in 3 tablespoons of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of whole milk with one beaten egg. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined.
Step 5: Shape and Bake Shortcakes
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or use English muffin rings to keep them round. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make Whipped Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip together 1 ½ cups of cold heavy whipping cream, with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Step 7: Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake
Once cooled, slice each shortcake in half. Drizzle some strawberry syrup on the bottom half before adding whipped cream and topped strawberries. Replace the top half and serve immediately!
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your strawberry shortcake experience.
Classic Serving
- Serve with Fresh Strawberries: Top with a generous amount of hulled and sliced strawberries for that classic look and taste.
Layered Delight
- Create a Layered Dessert: Alternate layers of shortcake, whipped cream, and strawberries in a clear glass for an elegant presentation.
Individual Portions
- Use Mason Jars: Assemble individual servings in mason jars for a fun, portable option perfect for picnics or gatherings.
With Ice Cream
- Add a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it extra indulgent and adds a creamy texture.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Finish with a Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top for a rich twist on this classic dessert.
Garnish Ideas
- Use Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and freshness when garnished on top of each serving.
How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
To achieve the perfect strawberry shortcake, follow these essential tips. They will help you create a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe, fresh strawberries and high-quality cream for the best flavors.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the strawberry syrup and shortcakes in advance to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix the shortcake batter just until combined to ensure light and fluffy cakes.
- Chill Your Cream: Ensure your heavy whipping cream is very cold before whipping for better volume and texture.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your strawberry shortcake right after assembling it to prevent sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake
Pairing side dishes with strawberry shortcake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade balances the sweetness of strawberry shortcake perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds variety and complements the flavors of fresh strawberries.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Serve with creamy vanilla yogurt for added richness without overpowering the sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses offers a savory contrast that pairs beautifully with sweet desserts.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The caramelized pineapple adds another layer of sweetness while keeping things interesting.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea provides a comforting beverage choice that contrasts nicely with the coolness of the dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making strawberry shortcake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong strawberries – Always choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid using frozen ones as they can make your shortcake soggy.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough shortcakes. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Skipping the syrup – The strawberry syrup is key! Drizzling it over the shortcake adds moisture and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step.
- Not chilling the cream – Whipped cream needs to be cold to hold its shape. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping.
- Ignoring baking time – Keep an eye on your shortcakes while baking. Overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking results in doughy centers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep whipped cream separate to maintain its texture.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- To freeze whipped cream, dollop it onto parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap individual pieces in foil and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as it may make the shortcake tough.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making strawberry shortcake.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries for shortcake?
You can absolutely use other berries or fruits like blueberries or peaches! Just adjust the sugar based on their sweetness.
How do I make my strawberry shortcake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of strawberry shortcake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
What should I serve with strawberry shortcake?
Strawberry shortcake pairs wonderfully with ice cream or additional fruit toppings for extra flavor and texture.
How long does homemade strawberry shortcake last?
Homemade strawberry shortcake is best enjoyed fresh but will last about 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This strawberry shortcake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preference. Give it a try this summer; it’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home!
Strawberry Shortcake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of homemade Strawberry Shortcake, a classic American dessert that is as light and fluffy as it is flavorful. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy gatherings, this recipe features layers of tender shortcake topped with luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries, all enhanced by a homemade strawberry syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 tablespoons cold butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and quartered)
- 1 ¼ cups sugar (for strawberries)
- 1 ½ cups cold heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries by hulking and quartering them. Combine with 1 ¼ cups of sugar in a bowl and let sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly.
- In another bowl, mix the milk with the beaten egg; gradually add to the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Whip the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Slice each cooled shortcake in half, drizzle with strawberry syrup, layer on whipped cream and strawberries, then top with the other half.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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