Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Recipe: A Slice of Summer Bliss
Who doesn’t love a slice of strawberry shortcake? This delightful dessert is a summer staple that combines fluffy biscuits with juicy strawberries and whipped cream, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. If you’re looking for an easy strawberry shortcake recipe that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place!
A Sweet Tradition
Strawberry shortcake has been a beloved dessert in the United States for centuries. While its origins trace back to the early 19th century, it has transformed over the years and is now a go-to treat for celebrations, barbecues, and family gatherings. There’s something nostalgic about biting into a homemade strawberry shortcake, especially when those fragrant strawberries are in season. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to any table!
Ingredients
To make the best strawberry shortcake recipe, you’ll need:
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 3/4 cup whole milk
For the Strawberries:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Making your perfect strawberry shortcake is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the process step by step.
1. Prepare the Strawberries
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently to coat the strawberries. Set aside for about 30 minutes to allow the juices to release.
2. Make the Biscuits
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk, and stir just until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat the dough to about 1-inch thick and cut out the biscuits using a pastry cutter or a round glass.
- Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Whip the Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until foamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake
- Once the biscuits are cool, slice them in half horizontally. Spoon some of the macerated strawberries over the bottom half of each biscuit, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream. Top with the other half of the biscuit and a few more strawberries for garnish.
Tips & Variations
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a twist!
- Make Ahead: The biscuit dough can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to assemble the dessert!
- Healthier Twist: Substitute whole milk with almond milk, or use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version.
- Layer It Up: For an extra touch, consider layering the ingredients in a trifle dish for a stunning presentation.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the perfect strawberry shortcake recipe that’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a sweet treat, this classic dessert is your answer.
Try it out this weekend and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear about your delicious creations and any variations you made. Happy baking!