Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: A Summer Delight

Name: Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold); 3/4 cup milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Published: April 3, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This classic strawberry shortcake is incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen.
With its fresh flavors and stunning presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests.
The juicy strawberries paired with pillowy whipped cream create an irresistible flavor combination everyone adores.
Perfect for any occasion, this dessert will quickly become a family favorite!

I still chuckle thinking about my cousin who tried to take credit for bringing the strawberries but forgot them at home. The look on her face when she realized was priceless!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Strawberries: Look for plump, red berries with no blemishes for the sweetest flavor.
Granulated Sugar: A little sugar helps macerate the strawberries, enhancing their natural sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for a tender shortcake base that rises beautifully.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent makes your shortcakes light and fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors in this delightful dessert.
Unsalted Butter: For richness and flavor; make sure it’s cold before using!
Heavy Whipping Cream: Whip this up for luscious topping that complements the strawberries perfectly.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of your whipped cream.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Strawberries: Start by washing your fresh strawberries under cool running water. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel and remove their green tops. Slice them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.

Macerate the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, sprinkle sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Toss them gently to coat evenly and let them sit for at least 30 minutes until they release their sweet juices.

Create Your Shortcake Mixture: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Add Butter and Milk: Cut in cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in milk gradually until you form a soft dough.

Bake Your Shortcakes: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top and slightly firm to touch.

Whip Your Cream: While shortcakes cool down, whip heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

Now gather your family around because it’s time to assemble this delightful creation!

Serve each warm shortcake topped with mounds of macerated strawberries followed by fluffy whipped cream. You may want to have extra napkins handy because things might get messy—and delicious! Enjoy every last bite as summer sunshine seeps into your heart through this classic strawberry shortcake recipe! Berry Croissant Bake.

You Must Know

The classic strawberry shortcake recipe is all about fresh strawberries, sweet cream, and fluffy biscuits.
Using ripe strawberries elevates the dish to another level.
Remember, letting the biscuits cool slightly before layering keeps everything from turning into a gooey mess!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your strawberries first; their juices will mix beautifully with sugar as you make the biscuits. Bake those biscuits next, and while they cool, whip up some heavy cream for a perfect layering experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries or even peaches if you want to jazz things up. A splash of vanilla in the whipped cream can add an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers; this keeps the biscuits from getting soggy. When ready to serve, reassemble quickly to maintain that delightful texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use cold butter for flakier biscuits; this ensures they rise beautifully.
Don’t rush the maceration process for the strawberries; it enhances flavor significantly.
Fresh whipped cream is essential – store-bought just doesn’t cut it!

Memories of making this classic strawberry shortcake recipe always bring a smile, especially when friends rave about it at summer BBQs! Pistachio Raspberry Cheesecake.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries in this classic strawberry shortcake recipe?

For more inspiration, check out this Delightful Fresh Strawberry Cake recipe.

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield better texture and flavor in this dessert.

How can I prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy?

Layer ingredients just before serving to maintain biscuit crispness and texture.

What’s the best way to whip heavy cream?

Chill your bowl and beaters beforehand for quick whipping and perfect peaks.

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