Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the delightful treat of strawberry shortcakes, especially during strawberry season! This recipe brings together tender homemade biscuits, luscious strawberries, and a cloud of whipped cream to create a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or a simple evening treat, these strawberry shortcakes are sure to impress everyone at your table. The bright, juicy strawberries and light, buttery biscuits melt together for an experience that will have you reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Whipped cream, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure an easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this will ensure you get those light, flaky biscuits!
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream and add the vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined; be cautious not to overmix to keep the biscuits tender.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently just a few times until it comes together. Pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick.
- Using a biscuit cutter, cut out round biscuits and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a bit of extra heavy cream for that perfect golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits areGolden brown and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- While the biscuits are baking, prepare the strawberries. In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the powdered sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will soften the strawberries and create a sweet, juicy syrup.
- Once the biscuits are cooled, slice them in half horizontally to create a top and bottom.
- Assemble your shortcakes by spooning a generous amount of the strawberry mixture onto the bottom half of a biscuit. Top with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream, and gently place the other half of the biscuit on top.
- Repeat with the remaining biscuits and serve these delicious treats immediately for the best flavor!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the strawberries for brightness. If you prefer a different flavor, try infusing the whipped cream with vanilla or almond extract. These strawberry shortcakes can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an ultra indulgent dessert!
Cooking Techniques
For the best results when making the biscuits, ensure your butter is very cold. This helps create a flaky texture as the butter melts during baking. When mixing the dough, the key is to handle it gently—too much kneading may result in tough biscuits. Also, letting the strawberries sit allows their natural sugars to enhance the flavors, making every bite all the more delightful.
FAQ
Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
No, these biscuits are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the strawberry mixture a few hours in advance.
How do I store leftover shortcakes?
Store any assembled shortcakes in the refrigerator for a few hours. If you have leftover biscuits, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature and fill them with strawberries and cream just before serving.
Conclusion
This strawberry shortcake recipe is a true celebration of summer’s bounty, merging the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the warmth of homemade biscuits. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones at a picnic or savoring them on your own, each bite offers a taste of joy. Happy baking!