Introduction
There’s something undeniably delightful about a classic strawberry shortcake. Imagine biting into a fluffy, golden biscuit layered with sweet, macerated strawberries and a cloud of whipped cream that melts in your mouth. This dessert captures the essence of summer, making use of plump, juicy strawberries that burst with flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream, plus more for whipping
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by combining the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated, then set aside to macerate for about 30 minutes. This will soften the strawberries and create a delicious syrup.
- While the strawberries are soaking in that sweet goodness, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Next, cut the cold, diced butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You’re aiming for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs—this will make your biscuit base light and flaky.
- In a separate bowl, blend 1 cup of heavy cream with the vanilla extract. Slowly pour this mixture into the flour and butter blend, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead it a couple of times before patting it into a rectangle that’s about 1 inch thick.
- Using a biscuit cutter, cut the dough into rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are beautifully golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
- As the shortcakes cool, whip the remaining heavy cream with the extra 1/4 cup of sugar until soft peaks form, creating a luscious topping for your dessert.
- To assemble, slice the shortcakes in half. Layer them with the macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream, then top with the other half of the biscuit.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries while they macerate.
- If you prefer a less sweet shortcake, reduce the sugar in the biscuit dough by a tablespoon or two.
- Feel free to experiment with other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a delightful twist.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs a few classic baking techniques to ensure your shortcakes turn out perfectly. The process of cutting in the cold butter is crucial for achieving that desirable flaky texture, while macerating the strawberries enhances their natural sweetness and creates a delicious syrup. Pay attention to not overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough biscuits.
FAQ
Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the biscuits a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and reheat in the oven before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make the shortcake gluten-free?
Using a good gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work well. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Conclusion
Strawberry shortcake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s sweetest offerings. With its layers of buttery biscuits, fresh strawberries, and light whipped cream, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. Whether enjoyed on a warm sunny day or as a sweet finish to a cozy dinner, each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and create this timeless treat for friends and family!