Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe is a delightful treat that brings together light, buttery shortcakes and fresh, juicy strawberries. Bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for family gatherings, summer picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence at home. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients that make every bite irresistible.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
• Step 2: Preheat the Oven
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Incorporate Cold Butter
• Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
• Step 6: Form Shortcakes
• Step 7: Bake Shortcakes
• Step 8: Whip Cream
• Step 9: Assemble Strawberry Shortcake
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Classic Assembly
• Individual Cups
• Sundae Style
• With a Drizzle
• Garnish with Mint
• Breakfast Delight
• How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe from scratch?
• Can I use frozen strawberries for my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?
• What is the best way to serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?
• How can I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses fresh strawberries, ensuring vibrant flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this delicious dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a classic dessert or customize it with your favorite toppings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer gathering, this shortcake fits right in.
• Light and Buttery: The shortcakes are airy yet rich, providing the ideal base for the strawberries and cream.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry shortcake, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your shortcakes perfectly.
• Hand Mixer: Makes whipping the cream quick and easy, achieving the perfect consistency.

Ingredients

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe is light, buttery, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or a quick summer dessert everyone will love.

• 1 and ½ pounds fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• ⅔ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Slice the strawberries and place them in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle ¼ cup granulated sugar over the strawberries.
3. Stir gently and set aside for at least 30 minutes to allow them to release their juices.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the shortcakes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The all-purpose flour,
2. The remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar,
3. Baking powder,
4. Salt.

Step 4: Incorporate Cold Butter

Add the cold butter pieces into the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend until the mixture looks crumbly.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the whole milk and add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Form Shortcakes

Drop large spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making six shortcakes.

Step 7: Bake Shortcakes

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 8: Whip Cream

In a separate bowl, pour in cold heavy whipping cream. Add powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.

Step 9: Assemble Strawberry Shortcake

1. Split each shortcake in half using a fork or your hands.
2. Spoon strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
3. Add a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Place the top half of the shortcake over the cream.
5. Optionally add more strawberries and whipped cream on top if desired.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious strawberry shortcake!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Serving your strawberry shortcake is as important as making it. This delightful dessert can be presented in various ways to elevate its appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Classic Assembly

• Layer the strawberry mixture on the bottom half of the shortcake and top with whipped cream for a traditional approach.

Individual Cups

• Create individual servings by layering strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcake pieces in clear cups for a beautiful presentation.

Sundae Style

• Serve your strawberry shortcake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent twist.

With a Drizzle

• Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the assembled shortcake for added sweetness and flavor contrast.

Garnish with Mint

• Add fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and a refreshing taste that complements the strawberries.

Breakfast Delight

• Use leftover shortcakes as a base for breakfast by adding yogurt and fresh fruit for a quick, healthy option.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Perfecting your strawberry shortcake recipe can turn an already great dish into something extraordinary. Here are some tips to consider:

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Always opt for ripe, juicy strawberries to enhance the flavor of your dessert.

• Chill Your Cream: Make sure your whipping cream is very cold before beating. This helps achieve soft peaks more easily.

• Don’t Overmix Dough: When making the shortcake dough, mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add lemon zest or almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with strawberry shortcake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this sweet treat beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.

2. Ice Cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs perfectly, providing creamy goodness alongside the cake.

3. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These make a delightful addition that echoes the main flavors of your dessert.

4. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the shortcake.

5. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who enjoy nuts, these bars add texture and richness to your dessert table.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory bites that balance out the sweet flavors of strawberry shortcake.

7. Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized treats can offer variety without overwhelming guests after indulging in shortcake.

8. Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages can help cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry shortcake seems simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the final product. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.

• Using overripe strawberries: Overripe berries can lead to a mushy filling. Choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your shortcakes tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Not letting strawberries macerate long enough: Skipping this step may result in less flavorful strawberries. Allow them to sit with sugar for at least 30 minutes to develop their juices.
• Skipping the cold cream: Warm whipping cream won’t whip properly. Ensure it’s cold before beating to achieve fluffy whipped cream.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking for too long can dry out your shortcakes. Keep an eye on them and remove them when golden brown.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover strawberry shortcake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Wrap each shortcake individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the shortcakes in aluminum foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place shortcakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, place the shortcakes inside, and cover with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious strawberry shortcake recipe.

How do I make Strawberry Shortcake Recipe from scratch?

To make this recipe from scratch, follow the provided instructions closely, ensuring you use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Can I use frozen strawberries for my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but they should be thawed and drained of excess liquid before using them in your recipe.

What is the best way to serve Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?

Serve your strawberry shortcake immediately after assembly for optimal freshness. Top with extra strawberries and whipped cream if desired.

How can I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe?

You can customize it by adding flavors like lemon zest or different extracts, or by using other fruits like peaches or blueberries alongside strawberries.

Final Thoughts

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe is not only light and buttery, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or flavors. It’s perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying during warm summer days. Give it a try—you’ll love how delightful and refreshing it is!