Introduction
There’s something truly special about a classic strawberry shortcake. This delightful dessert brings together flaky, tender shortcakes, luscious whipped cream, and the sweet burst of fresh strawberries. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for shortcakes)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for about 30 minutes to macerate.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring until just combined.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat into a 1-inch thick round.
- Cut out shortcakes using a biscuit cutter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the shortcakes cool for a few minutes and then slice them in half.
- To assemble, layer strawberries and whipped cream in between the shortcake halves.
Notes or Tips
- For extra sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the strawberries.
- Use chilled ingredients to achieve the best flaky texture for your shortcakes.
- Experiment by adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries for a zesty twist.
Cooking Techniques
Preparing strawberry shortcake involves a few essential techniques that enhance its texture and flavor. The key is to handle the dough gently to maintain its flakiness, and allowing the strawberries to macerate imparts a deeper sweetness and brings out their natural juices.
FAQ
- Can I make the shortcakes in advance? Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
- How should I store leftover shortcake? Keep any leftover assembled shortcakes in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
With its vibrant flavors and comforting textures, this strawberry shortcake recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer. Enjoy every luscious bite and share this delightful treat with family and friends for unforgettable moments.