Indulging in a slice of Easy Strawberry Shortcake is like diving into a cloud of sweet, juicy bliss. Picture this: fluffy, buttery biscuits topped with succulent strawberries that dance in fresh whipped cream, creating a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone racing to the table, forks in hand, ready to devour this mouthwatering masterpiece.
Now, let me take you on a little trip down memory lane. This dessert isn’t just another recipe; it’s a cherished tradition in my family. I remember my grandmother making it every summer for our backyard barbecues, her laughter mixing with the sound of whipping cream. Every bite felt like sunshine on my tongue, and it’s perfect for everything from casual picnics to fancy dinner parties. Trust me; this Easy Strawberry Shortcake will become your go-to dessert for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for those last-minute gatherings
- Each layer bursts with flavor, combining sweet strawberries and creamy goodness perfectly
- Visually stunning, it brings vibrant colors that elevate any table setting
- Whether you serve it as a simple dessert or dress it up for special occasions, its versatility shines through every bite
Ingredients for Easy Strawberry Shortcake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Strawberries: Look for plump, ripe strawberries that are bright red for the best flavor and sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your shortcake; use unbleached flour if possible for better texture.
Baking Powder: Essential for making your shortcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness helps balance the tartness of the strawberries.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavor of all your ingredients.
Unsalted Butter: Cold butter adds richness and flakiness to the shortcake.
Heavy Cream: Whip this up to create a luscious topping that’ll make you swoon.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Shortcake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your shortcakes don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare Strawberries
Wash and slice about two cups of fresh strawberries. Toss them in a bowl with a couple of tablespoons of sugar and let them sit while you prepare the shortcake—this draws out their natural juices.
Step 3: Make the Shortcake Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, two tablespoons of baking powder, one tablespoon of granulated sugar, and half a teaspoon of salt. Cut in six tablespoons of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Cream
Pour in one cup of heavy cream gradually while stirring until just combined—don’t overmix! The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Turn your dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about an inch thick. Cut out circles using either a biscuit cutter or simply use your hands to form them—rough shapes are totally fine! Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Whip Cream
While those beauties are baking away, whip up another cup of heavy cream (adding sugar if desired) until soft peaks form—this is where magic happens!
Once everything’s baked and cooled slightly, assemble by splitting the shortcakes in half horizontally. Layer on those luscious strawberries with their juice and top generously with whipped cream. Transfer to plates and prepare yourself for an unforgettable treat!
You Must Know
- Easy Strawberry Shortcake is not just a dessert; it’s a love letter to summer
- With its fluffy biscuits, sweet strawberries, and dollops of whipped cream, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating or just craving something sweet
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preparing the strawberries so they can macerate while you bake the shortcakes. Mix flour, baking powder, and sugar before cutting in cold butter. Bake until golden brown, then assemble with strawberries and whipped cream for a delightful experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Add a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped cream for extra flavor or even drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate biscuits for up to two days and strawberries for three days. For serving, simply reassemble and enjoy fresh flavors without compromising texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use chilled ingredients for flaky biscuits that rise beautifully
- Don’t skip macerating the strawberries; it enhances their sweetness
- Always serve shortcake immediately after assembly to keep everything fresh and delightful
Sometimes I prepare this Easy Strawberry Shortcake for family gatherings, and watching everyone devour it is pure joy; it’s my secret weapon for winning hearts (and stomachs).
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Easy Strawberry Shortcake?
To make an Easy Strawberry Shortcake, you will need fresh strawberries, sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Start by slicing the strawberries and tossing them with sugar to create a delicious syrup. For the shortcake, combine the dry ingredients and mix in cream and vanilla until you have a soft dough. These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful dessert that everyone loves.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Strawberry Shortcake?
Preparing Easy Strawberry Shortcake is quick and straightforward. You can expect to spend about 15 minutes on preparation and another 25 minutes for baking. Once the shortcakes are golden brown, let them cool slightly before serving. The total time from start to finish is approximately 45 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or spontaneous cravings.
Can I use frozen strawberries for my Easy Strawberry Shortcake?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more juice when thawed, resulting in a slightly different texture. To enhance flavor, consider macerating them with a bit of sugar before layering them in your dessert. This substitution will still yield a tasty Easy Strawberry Shortcake that everyone can enjoy.
How should I store leftover Easy Strawberry Shortcake?
To keep your Easy Strawberry Shortcake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to two days but is best enjoyed within the first day to maintain its texture. If you are storing it for longer periods or want to prolong freshness, consider freezing individual shortcakes without toppings. Thaw them before serving for a delightful treat anytime.
Conclusion for Easy Strawberry Shortcake:
In summary, Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines sweet strawberries with fluffy shortcakes and whipped cream. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving something sweet at home, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Enjoy indulging in this classic dessert that brings joy to both family and friends!
Easy Strawberry Shortcake
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful summer dessert that features fluffy biscuits, sweet macerated strawberries, and rich whipped cream. This quick and simple recipe guarantees a delicious treat perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s an irresistible addition to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for shortcake)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup heavy cream (plus additional for whipped topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar; set aside to macerate.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, 1 tablespoon sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add heavy cream while stirring until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface, pat into a rectangle about one inch thick, and cut out circles. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- Whip additional heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Assemble by splitting shortcakes in half, layering with strawberries and juice, then topping with whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shortcake (approximately 90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
