Indulge in the best homemade Strawberry Shortcake with a tender, buttery biscuit, sweet macerated strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream. This easy, classic dessert is perfect for any occasion!
The History of Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake dates back to the 16th century when early American settlers adapted European biscuit-making traditions. Over time, it became a beloved summer treat, especially in the United States. Traditionally, it features a biscuit-like cake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Classic & Timeless – A traditional American dessert loved by all generations.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Customizable – Can be adapted with different fruits or flavors.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A crowd-pleaser for picnics, birthdays, or family dinners.
- Fresh & Light – A delicious way to enjoy ripe, juicy strawberries.
Ingredients Notes
For the Shortcakes:
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure.
- Baking Powder – Helps with the rise.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds slight sweetness.
- Butter – Gives a rich, flaky texture.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a tender crumb.
For the Strawberry Filling:
- Fresh Strawberries – The star ingredient.
- Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and macerates the strawberries.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a hint of tanginess.
For the Whipped Cream:
- Heavy Cream – Whips up to a light, airy texture.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds subtle sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash and hull the strawberries.
- Slice them and mix with sugar and lemon juice.
- Let sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
Step 2: Make the Shortcakes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add cream, stirring until dough forms.
- Roll out dough and cut into rounds.
- Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Assemble the Shortcake
- Slice the shortcakes in half.
- Layer with macerated strawberries and whipped cream.
- Top with the other half of the shortcake.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store assembled shortcakes for up to 1 day.
- Freezing: Freeze the shortcake biscuits separately for up to 2 months.
- Strawberries: Best enjoyed fresh; refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
Variations and Substitutions
- Biscuits: Swap traditional shortcakes for pound cake or sponge cake.
- Fruits: Use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix for a different flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for whipped cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the shortcakes.
Pairings and Accompaniments
- Beverages: Pairs well with iced tea, coffee, or lemonade.
- Toppings: Add chocolate drizzle or toasted almonds for extra texture.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
- Strawberry Shortcake vs. Angel Food Cake – Angel food cake is lighter, while shortcakes have a denser, biscuit-like texture.
- Strawberry Shortcake vs. Pound Cake – Pound cake is richer and denser compared to the flakiness of a shortcake biscuit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can strawberry shortcake stay in the fridge?
Strawberry shortcake is best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.
What do you need for strawberry shortcake?
You need shortcake biscuits, fresh strawberries, sugar, and whipped cream.
What are the characteristics of strawberry shortcake?
It features a light, flaky biscuit, sweet macerated strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream.
Why is strawberry shortcake called short?
The term “short” refers to the crumbly texture of the biscuit due to the butter content.
Best Time to Enjoy Strawberry Shortcake
- Summer: Peak strawberry season.
- Special Occasions: Great for birthdays and gatherings.
- Everyday Treat: Perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.
Presentation Tips
- Serve on a decorative plate with a mint garnish.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
- Use a glass dessert dish for a layered effect.
Suggested Recipes
For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.