Go Back

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake combines juicy, macerated strawberries layered over flaky biscuits or cake, topped with airy whipped cream. The process involves gently preparing the berries, baking or assembling the base, and quickly stacking everything before the juices soak in, resulting in a luscious, textured dessert with a crisp, tender bite and a sweet, creamy top.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pint strawberries ripe and juicy
  • 2 tbsp sugar for macerating strawberries
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for biscuits or cake base
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
  • 3/4 cup milk plus extra for brushing
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream for whipping
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar for whipped cream
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice or zest optional, brightens flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spatula
  • Electric mixer or whisk

Method
 

  1. Slice the strawberries and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with sugar and mash gently with a fork to release their juices. Let sit for 15 minutes until the mixture is juicy and fragrant.
  2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and cut in with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, then gently fold until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Turn onto a floured surface and fold a few times to bring it together.
  4. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick layer. Use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out rounds and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with milk for a golden finish.
  5. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown and slightly flaky. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
  6. While the biscuits cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon juice until soft peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.
  7. Slice the cooled biscuits in half horizontally. Spoon the macerated strawberries onto the bottom halves, then top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Cover with the biscuit tops and add more strawberries and cream if desired.
  8. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp biscuit, juicy berries, and airy whipped cream all together for the perfect bite.