Introduction
Nothing says summer quite like the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries! This Easy Strawberry Shortcake recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of warm sunny days. With fluffy, buttery biscuits layered with luscious whipped cream and ripe strawberries, it’s a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this classic dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering sweet delight!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for biscuits)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to let the juices develop, creating a sweet syrup.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for the biscuits.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with tiny pieces of butter still visible for flaky biscuits.
- Slowly pour in the milk and mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your biscuits tender.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it just a few times until it comes together.
- Pat the dough into a rectangle about 1 inch thick, then cut out round biscuits using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Place the biscuit rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the biscuits are baking, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. The cream should be light and fluffy.
- Once the biscuits are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- To assemble your strawberry shortcakes, slice the biscuits in half horizontally. Layer the bottom half with a generous portion of whipped cream and a spoonful of the sweetened strawberries, then top with the other half of the biscuit. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes or Tips
- For the freshest flavor, use ripe strawberries. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained.
- You can make the biscuits ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container, and warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
- Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of almond extract or lemon zest to the whipped cream for a delightful twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of making a tender biscuit. It’s essential to keep the butter cold and work it quickly into the flour to create a flaky texture. Additionally, using a gentle hand while mixing the dough ensures that the biscuits rise beautifully without becoming tough.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! While strawberries are classic, feel free to substitute with peaches, blueberries, or raspberries for a delicious variety.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover shortcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within a day or two, but you can always remake fresh biscuits to accompany the leftover strawberries and cream.
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Shortcake is not just a dessert; it’s a sweet celebration of summer. With each bite, you’ll enjoy layers of rich flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful treat, and create memories around the table that will last a lifetime!