As the sun-drenched days of summer roll in, few desserts evoke the season’s essence quite like strawberry shortcake. Imagine biting into a fluffy biscuit, its tender crumb yielding to the juiciness of ripe strawberries, all crowned with a cloud of whipped cream that dances on your palate. This delightful treat is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of warmth, nostalgia, and the simple joys found in fresh fruit.
Steeped in history and beloved across generations, strawberry shortcake has evolved from its humble beginnings into countless variations that satisfy every sweet tooth. From traditional recipes passed down through family kitchens to modern twists incorporating unique flavors and textures, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge in this classic confection. Join us as we explore the origins, variations, and timeless appeal of strawberry shortcake—a dish that invites us all to savor life’s sweetest moments under the golden rays of summer sunshine.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for shortcake)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare Strawberries: In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Set aside to macerate for about 30 minutes.
- Make Shortcake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Shape & Bake: Turn dough onto a floured surface; gently knead a few times. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into rounds with a biscuit cutter. Place on a baking sheet; bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Assemble: Let shortcakes cool slightly. Split each shortcake in half, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, then top with the other half of the shortcake.
- Serve: Add more whipped cream on top if desired and enjoy!