Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that has been loved by generations for its light, fluffy texture and fresh, sweet flavor. Perfect for a variety of occasions, from summer picnics to holiday feasts, this dessert is versatile, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll dive into the history, ingredients, variations, and tips for making the perfect Strawberry Shortcake.

What is Strawberry Shortcake?

Strawberry Shortcake is a delectable dessert made up of sweetened biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. It has a reputation for being a light, refreshing treat that highlights the seasonal goodness of strawberries. Whether served in a bowl or as individual cakes, it’s a dessert that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and richness.

Strawberry Shortcake’s origins trace back to the 16th century, although the modern version became popular in the United States in the 19th century. The dessert is believed to have been inspired by the traditional British “shortcake,” which uses a buttery biscuit-like base.

Strawberry Shortcake Nutrition Table

Ingredients

1 pint of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons of sugar (optional)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
2/3 cup heavy cream (for the biscuits)
1 cup heavy cream (for the whipped cream)
1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for the whipped cream)

Equipment

To make a delicious Strawberry Shortcake, having the right equipment will make the process easier and help ensure perfect results. Below is a list of essential tools and equipment you’ll need to prepare and assemble this delightful dessert.

1. Mixing Bowls

• Purpose: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls—one for the biscuit dough and another for the whipped cream and strawberries.

2. Measuring Cups and Spoons

• Purpose: Accurate measurements are key for getting the perfect texture in your biscuits and whipped cream. Use measuring cups and spoons for both dry and liquid ingredients.

3. Whisk or Electric Mixer

• Purpose: A whisk is essential for whipping the cream by hand, but an electric mixer (hand-held or stand mixer) makes the process quicker and easier. It will also help to create fluffy whipped cream for the dessert.

4. Pastry Cutter or Food Processor

• Purpose: For making the biscuit dough, you can use a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients. Alternatively, a food processor can speed up the process, but be sure to pulse carefully to avoid overmixing.

5. Biscuit Cutter or Round Cookie Cutter

• Purpose: A biscuit cutter or a round cookie cutter is used to cut the dough into uniform rounds after it’s been patted out. This ensures your biscuits are even and properly sized.

6. Baking Sheet

• Purpose: To bake the biscuits, use a baking sheet or a baking tray. Lining it with parchment paper ensures that the biscuits don’t stick and that they come out golden brown.

7. Cooling Rack

• Purpose: After baking your biscuits, use a cooling rack to let them cool evenly. This prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.

8. Sharp Knife

• Purpose: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the fresh strawberries and cutting the baked biscuits in half.

9. Serving Plates or Bowls

• Purpose: Once your Strawberry Shortcake is assembled, you’ll need plates or bowls to serve the individual portions.

10. Piping Bag (Optional)

• Purpose: If you want to decorate your shortcake with a beautiful swirl of whipped cream, a piping bag is a great tool to create a professional look.

11. Strawberry Huller (Optional)

• Purpose: A strawberry huller can help you quickly remove the stems from strawberries, saving time in preparation.

If you enjoyed this refreshing Strawberry Shortcake, be sure to check out our Lemon Meringue Pie recipe for another citrusy and sweet dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake: Step-by-Step

Prepare the Strawberries:

• Slice the strawberries and mix them with the sugar. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to draw out the juices.

Make the Biscuits:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add the cold butter, mixing with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Pour in the heavy cream and stir until just combined.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface, pat it into a 1-inch thick round, and cut into circles using a biscuit cutter.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Whip the Cream:

• In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake:

• Slice the baked biscuits in half. Layer the bottom with strawberries, followed by a generous amount of whipped cream. Top with the other half of the biscuit and garnish with more strawberries and whipped cream.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake

Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The quality of the strawberries is the star of the show. Fresh, in-season berries will give your shortcake the best flavor.
Chill the Biscuits: For extra flaky biscuits, chill the dough in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking.
Make the Whipped Cream from Scratch: Homemade whipped cream will add richness and a light, airy texture that store-bought versions can’t match.
Serve Immediately: Strawberry Shortcake is best served fresh as the biscuit may become soggy if left too long.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake can be served as a single dessert or in larger quantities for a group:

• Individual Servings: Serve the shortcakes in individual portions for easy serving at parties or picnics.
• As a Trifle: Layer the components in a trifle dish for an impressive, family-style presentation.
• With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Shortcake?

While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.

Q2: How can I make the biscuits fluffier?

For extra fluffiness, avoid overworking the dough and make sure to use cold butter and cream.

Q3: Can I make Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time?

While the biscuits can be made ahead, it’s best to assemble the shortcakes right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.