Strawberry Shortcake

There’s nothing better than homemade strawberry shortcake during strawberry season! This classic dessert is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, featuring layers of flaky biscuits, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this delightful treat can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests without stress. The standout quality of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes of prep time, making it a great option for last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries and homemade whipped cream enhances the flavor significantly.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add other fruits to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family picnic or a fancy dinner party, this dessert fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare components in advance, saving time on serving day.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can elevate your baking experience. Here are a few essential items you’ll need to create perfect strawberry shortcake.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Rolling pin

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking for your biscuits.
• Whisk: Perfect for incorporating air into your whipped cream, giving it that light texture.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients without deflating your whipped cream.

Ingredients

For the Strawberries

• 7 cups fresh sliced strawberries (2 pounds strawberries)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Biscuits

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (frozen for 30 minutes)
• ¾ cup cold heavy whipping cream (plus more for brushing tops of biscuits)
• ¾ cup cold whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Turbinado sugar (coarse sugar), optional

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by washing and slicing the strawberries. In a mixing bowl:
1. Add 7 cups of fresh sliced strawberries.
2. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
3. Toss gently and let sit at room temperature so they can release their juices.

Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl:
1. Combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 5 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
2. Cut in the frozen butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in ¾ cup cold heavy whipping cream and ¾ cup cold whole milk until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Biscuits

On a floured surface:
1. Turn out the dough and knead gently just until smooth (about 5 times).
2. Roll out to about ½ inch thick and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass.
3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with additional heavy whipping cream and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
4. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

While biscuits are baking:
1. In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble Your Strawberry Shortcake

Once biscuits are cooled:
1. Slice each biscuit in half horizontally.
2. Layer some strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream on each bottom half.
3. Top with the other half of the biscuit and add more strawberries on top if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade strawberry shortcake!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your strawberry shortcake experience.

Individual Servings

• Serve individual portions in small bowls or cups for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own dessert without sharing.

Layering in Jars

• Create visually appealing layers by assembling the biscuit, strawberries, and whipped cream in mason jars. This method adds a rustic charm and is perfect for picnics.

Garnished with Mint

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of each serving as a garnish. This not only enhances the look but also adds a refreshing flavor contrast to the sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For an extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate sauce over the whipped cream. This adds richness and complements the strawberries beautifully.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for additional creaminess and flavor. The combination of warm biscuits and cold ice cream is irresistible.

With Extra Strawberries

• Offer additional sliced strawberries on the side for those who want more fruit. This allows guests to customize their dessert according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake

To achieve the best strawberry shortcake, follow these tips that focus on texture and flavor balance.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and high-quality dairy products for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Your Tools: Keep your mixing bowls and utensils cold when preparing whipped cream. This helps achieve better volume and stability.
• Don’t Overmix: When making the biscuit dough, mix just until combined to ensure a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the strawberries before adding sugar; adjust sweetness based on their ripeness for optimal flavor.
• Brush with Milk: Before baking, brush the tops of the biscuits with milk for a golden color and improved crust texture.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve strawberry shortcake right after assembling to keep biscuits from getting soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake

Pairing sides with strawberry shortcake can enhance your dessert table. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that provides a light contrast to the richness of strawberry shortcake.
2. Lemon Sorbet: A zesty sorbet that cleanses the palate between bites of sweet shortcake.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creamy texture complements the dessert well.
4. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie add crunch and caramel flavors that play nicely against strawberries.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: An elegant addition that ties in with the main dessert while offering a different texture.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Lightly flavored cupcakes provide variety without overwhelming sweetness; they can be made in complementary flavors like vanilla or lemon.
7. Cold Brew Coffee: A refreshing beverage option that pairs well with dessert without overpowering it.
8. Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip can be served with fresh veggies as an appetizer before indulging in sweet treats.

These side dishes will complement your strawberry shortcake beautifully, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry shortcake can be a delight, but a few common mistakes can spoil the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the butter can lead to flat biscuits. Always freeze the butter for at least 30 minutes before making the dough.
• Using Overripe Strawberries: Overripe strawberries can make your dessert mushy. Choose firm, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure your biscuits rise perfectly.
• Measuring Flour Incorrectly: Too much flour will make your biscuits dense. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
• Skipping Vanilla in Whipped Cream: Omitting vanilla extract from your whipped cream misses an opportunity for added flavor. Always include it for a delicious finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store strawberry shortcake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep strawberries separate if possible to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake

• Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Shortcake?

Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert made of layers of sweet biscuit, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream, perfect for any occasion.

How do I make homemade strawberry shortcake?

To make homemade strawberry shortcake, prepare fresh biscuits, layer them with sugared strawberries, and top with whipped cream.

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry shortcake?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use thawed frozen strawberries; just drain excess liquid before using them.

What variations can I try with my strawberry shortcake?

You can customize your strawberry shortcake by adding different fruits like blueberries or peaches or trying flavored whipped creams like almond or orange zest.

Conclusion

Strawberry shortcake is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect for gatherings or simply satisfying a sweet tooth. Feel free to customize it with seasonal fruits or flavored creams—your imagination is the limit!

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