Strawberry Adventures: Classic Strawberry Shortcake Recipe 🍓

Are you ready to embark on a sweet and delightful strawberry adventure? This Classic Strawberry Shortcake recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds—it’s a celebration of summer! With fresh, juicy strawberries layered between flaky, buttery biscuits, it’s the perfect dessert for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced baker, this easy strawberry shortcake recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert.

A Sweet Tradition

Strawberry shortcake is an iconic American dessert that dates back to the 19th century. This delectable dish often graces tables during strawberry season, offering a burst of freshness to any celebration. Imagine a sunny afternoon picnic with friends, where the laughter mingles with the aroma of fresh strawberries. That’s precisely what this recipe brings to your summer barbecue or birthday celebration!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this best strawberry shortcake recipe:

For the Shortcakes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberries:

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make strawberry shortcake that will wow your family and friends!

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat. Let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the natural juices to flow and create a luscious syrup.

Step 2: Make the Shortcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the chilled, cubed butter into the dry ingredients, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix!
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place the shortcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble

1. Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of the strawberry mixture onto the bottom half, followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Place the top half back on, and add more strawberries and cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Different Berries: While strawberries are classic, feel free to mix in raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley.
• Dairy-Free Whipped Cream: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
• Personalize It: Add a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, to your strawberries for an adult twist!

Conclusion

This Classic Strawberry Shortcake recipe brings simplicity and joy to the table, showcasing the best flavors of summer. Whether it’s a family gathering, a barbecue, or simply a weekend treat, this dessert is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and try this easy strawberry shortcake recipe for yourself! We can’t wait to hear how it turned out! 🍓