Dessert

Strawberry Shortcake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 2/3 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

Bysarra August 18, 2025

Jump to Recipe

timeless dessert that beautifully highlights the sweetness of fresh strawberries, Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful treat perfect for spring and summer gatherings. With tender shortcake biscuits layered with juicy strawberries and fluffy whipped cream, this recipe offers a refreshing balance of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake recipe is easy to prepare and makes a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. It combines buttery biscuits, lightly sweetened strawberries, and soft whipped cream into a dessert that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether served for family dinners, picnics, or festive gatherings, it is guaranteed to impress without requiring complicated steps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Granulated sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter, cold
Whole milk or heavy cream
Fresh strawberries
Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet.
Wash and slice the strawberries, then toss them with a bit of sugar and set aside to macerate.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add milk or cream gradually and stir until just combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the baking sheet or shape into rounds.
Bake until golden brown and let cool slightly.
Split each shortcake biscuit in half.
Layer the bottom half with strawberries and whipped cream.
Place the top half back on and add another layer of whipped cream and strawberries before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: approximately 40 minutes

Variations

Use angel food cake or sponge cake instead of biscuits for a lighter version.
Replace strawberries with mixed berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
Add lemon zest to the biscuit dough for a fresh citrus twist.
Flavor the whipped cream with almond extract or a splash of liqueur for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

Strawberry Shortcake is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the components ahead of time:

Biscuits: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Strawberries: Store prepared strawberries in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Whipped cream: Best used the same day, though stabilized whipped cream can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Assemble the dessert just before serving to prevent the biscuits from becoming soggy.

FAQs

What is the difference between shortcake and sponge cake?

Shortcake is a biscuit-like pastry, while sponge cake is soft and airy. Shortcake has a crumbly, buttery texture, whereas sponge cake is light and fluffy.

Can I make the shortcake biscuits ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the biscuits a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Reheat briefly in the oven before assembling.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess. Fresh strawberries are preferred for the best flavor and texture.

How can I make the whipped cream more stable?

You can stabilize whipped cream by adding a small amount of powdered sugar or gelatin during whipping.

Can I use a food processor to make the biscuit dough?

Yes, a food processor makes cutting in the butter quicker and easier. Be careful not to overmix.

What can I serve with strawberry shortcake?

It pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or light sparkling wines. It can also be served with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How do I prevent the biscuits from being too dry?

Avoid overbaking and ensure you do not overwork the dough. Using heavy cream instead of milk can also make them more tender.

Can I sweeten the strawberries differently?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute instead of granulated sugar.

Can I make individual servings in jars?

Yes, layering biscuits, strawberries, and cream in jars makes a convenient and portable dessert option.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients. With its tender biscuits, fresh strawberries, and airy whipped cream, it is a versatile treat suitable for casual gatherings and elegant celebrations alike. Preparing the components in advance allows for quick assembly, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dessert without stress.

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