Ingredients

For the Strawberries:

• 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ⅓ cup white sugar

For the Shortcake Biscuits:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ¾ cup half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 8
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 350 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Strawberry shortcake has earned its place as a classic dessert because it embodies the essence of comfort food. Its ingredients are easily accessible, yet the combination of flavors creates a sophisticated dessert experience. The buttery shortcake is a beautiful contrast to the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries, while the whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture. This recipe transcends seasons, adaptable to fresh fruits like peaches or mixed berries. Its timeless appeal lies in its balance of flavors and textures, making it a dessert that feels as indulgent as it is simple to prepare.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with ⅓ cup of sugar.
2. Toss gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
3. Let the mixture sit for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process, called maceration, draws out the natural juices of the strawberries, creating a syrupy topping.

Step 2: Make the Shortcake Biscuits

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, half-and-half, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the biscuits tough.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it 2-3 times. Pat it into a ¾-inch thick rectangle.
7. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out biscuits. Re-roll the scraps to cut out additional biscuits if needed.
8. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Allow the biscuits to cool on a wire rack.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to become grainy.

Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake

1. Slice each biscuit in half horizontally.
2. Place the bottom half of a biscuit on a serving plate.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries over the biscuit.
4. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberries.
5. Place the top half of the biscuit over the whipped cream and repeat the layering if desired.
6. Garnish with a small dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry for presentation.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake

1. Cold Butter is Key: Using cold butter ensures the biscuits turn out flaky and tender. Handle the butter and dough minimally to prevent it from warming.
2. Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. Out-of-season berries can be supplemented with a touch of lemon juice to enhance their taste.
3. Whip Cream Just Right: Whip the cream until soft peaks form for the ideal texture. For added stability, you can mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch.
4. Make Ahead: The biscuits can be baked up to a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Assemble the shortcake just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used in this recipe. Allow them to thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before macerating with sugar.

What can I substitute for half-and-half?

If you don’t have half-and-half, use an equal mixture of milk and heavy cream or just full-fat milk for a similar result.

Can I make the biscuits gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

How can I make the recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter, almond or soy milk, and coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar as a substitute for heavy cream.

Storage Tips

1. Biscuits: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
2. Strawberries: Keep the macerated strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Whipped Cream: Whipped cream is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Whip it briefly before use if it loses its texture.

Conclusion

Strawberry shortcake is a dessert that epitomizes the joy of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. From the buttery, flaky biscuits to the juicy, sugar-kissed strawberries and the velvety whipped cream, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. This recipe ensures success with detailed instructions and helpful tips, making it accessible to novice and experienced bakers alike.

What makes strawberry shortcake truly timeless is its versatility. You can customize it with other fruits, experiment with flavored whipped creams, or even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra layer of decadence. It’s a dessert that invites creativity while staying true to its comforting roots.

Serve this strawberry shortcake at your next gathering, and watch it disappear in no time. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a reminder of the pleasures of homemade goodness, a dish that brings people together and leaves them smiling. Whether enjoyed under the summer sun or by the fireplace in winter, strawberry shortcake is a dessert that never fails to delight. Indulge in its classic charm, and create lasting memories with every delicious bite.