Introduction
Ah, strawberry shortcake — a classic dessert that perfectly captures the essence of warm sunshine and sweet, juicy strawberries! There’s something truly magical about biting into a fluffy biscuit, layered with luscious strawberries and cloud-like whipped cream. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that unfold with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, these best-ever strawberry shortcakes are sure to become your go-to recipe!
Ingredients
- For the biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- For the strawberry filling:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the whipped cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any delicious drips.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. With a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating that tender texture we love.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, so handle the dough with care!
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Pat it gently into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
- Using a round cutter, cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have room to rise and shine.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until your biscuits are golden brown and smell heavenly. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
- While the biscuits cool, prepare the strawberry filling. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Toss gently and let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes to macerate — this step enhances their juiciness!
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will elevate your dessert to another level!
- Now it’s time to assemble! Slice each biscuit in half. Spoon a generous amount of macerated strawberries over the bottom half, and top with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. Cover with the top half of the biscuit and serve immediately for a truly delightful experience.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the strawberry filling. If you prefer a sweeter whipped cream, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your liking. And remember, these shortcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the biscuits ahead of time and assemble them just before serving!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on a few simple techniques for success:
- Cutting in Butter: Ensuring your butter is cold is key! This helps create a flaky texture in the biscuits.
- Macération: Allowing the strawberries to sit with sugar and vanilla helps draw out their natural juices for a delicious filling.
- Whipping Cream: Beat the cream just until soft peaks form to achieve that light and airy whipped cream that perfectly complements the dessert.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries? While fresh strawberries are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first!
How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers, store the biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
Making these best strawberry shortcakes is a delightful journey from start to finish. The combination of tender biscuits, sweet strawberries, and airy whipped cream creates a dessert that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to enjoy. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this recipe is sure to make lasting memories around the table. So gather your loved ones, and let the sweet flavors of strawberry shortcake bring joy to your day!