Strawberry Shortcake
Discover the joy of making a classic Strawberry Shortcake with our easy, step-by-step recipe. This delightful dessert features tender, buttery shortcakes, fresh, juicy strawberries, and a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year, our Strawberry Shortcake is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our tips and variations to customize your shortcake and make it truly your own. Join our community of food lovers, share your creations, and subscribe for more delicious recipes from 'Satisfy Your Cravings!'
Equipment
- Mixing bowls Various sizes
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 1 Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- 1 Knife For slicing strawberries
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Cooling rack
- 1 Serrated knife For splitting shortcakes
- 1 Rolling Pin Optional, for patting out dough
- 1 3-inch round cutter Or a glass or cup with a similar diameter
Ingredients
For Shortcakes
- 2 Cups All-purpose flour: For, use a light touch when mixing.
- ¼ Cup Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Baking powder: Ensures the shortcakes rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp Teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
- ½ Cup Unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Cold butter creates a flaky texture.
- ¾ Cup Heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 Large egg Helps bind the ingredients together.
For the Strawberries
- 1 lb Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced Choose ripe, fragrant berries for the best flavor.
- ¼ Cup Granulated sugar Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice Adds a touch of brightness and prevents browning.
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 Cup Heavy cream For a light and airy texture.
- 2 Tbsp Powdered sugar Sweetens the whipped cream without making it grainy.
- 1 Tsp Vanilla extract Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Instructions
Cover and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
- Cover and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
Step 2: Make the Shortcakes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not over mix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick round.
- Using a 3-inch round cutter, cut out 6 shortcakes, re-rolling the scraps as necessary.
- Place the shortcakes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- In a large, chilled mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over beat, or the cream will become grainy.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcakes
- Carefully split each shortcake in half horizontally using a serrated knife.
- Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries and their juices onto the bottom half of each shortcake.
- Top the strawberries with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Place the top half of the shortcake over the whipped cream and serve immediately.