Easy Strawberry Shortcake: A Delicious Summer Delight

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

By Lisa

July 5, 2025

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The sweet aroma of freshly baked shortcakes wafts through your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in a dessert that feels like summer on a plate. Imagine biting into a fluffy biscuit layered with juicy strawberries and cloud-like whipped cream, each mouthful bursting with flavor and nostalgia. This Easy Strawberry Shortcake is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration of sunny days and carefree moments shared with loved ones.

Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, the kind that makes you want to throw on a sundress (or sweatpants, no judgment here), and head out for some fun. You gather your friends or family for a picnic, and what do you bring? You guessed it! This delightful Easy Strawberry Shortcake. The best part? It’s so simple to whip up that you’ll have time for a quick dance party in the kitchen while waiting for those strawberries to macerate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake is incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings
Its sweet strawberry flavor combined with fluffy shortcakes creates an irresistible taste explosion
The vibrant red strawberries and whipped cream create a stunning visual treat that will impress anyone
Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or even just a cozy night in!

Ingredients for Easy Strawberry Shortcake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; they should be bright red and fragrant.
Sugar: A bit of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries during maceration.
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our shortcakes; sift it for lightness.
Baking Powder: Essential for fluffy shortcakes; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Cold butter is key; it creates flaky layers in your shortcakes.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness to the dough; feel free to substitute with your favorite plant-based milk.
Heavy Cream: For whipping into clouds of deliciousness; don’t skimp here!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Easy Strawberry Shortcake

How to Make Easy Strawberry Shortcake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by washing and slicing around two cups of fresh strawberries. In a bowl, sprinkle them with sugar and gently toss. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes until they release their juices—this is where the magic happens!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper because nobody wants sticky shortcakes stuck to their pans.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will be your dry base—think of it as the foundation of your tasty masterpiece.

Step 4: Cut in the Butter

Grab your cold unsalted butter and cut it into small cubes before adding it to the dry mix. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if some chunks remain—those are flavor pockets waiting to happen!

Step 5: Add Milk

Slowly pour in three-quarters cup of milk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix! You want tender shortcakes, not hockey pucks.

Step 6: Bake

Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet using an ice cream scoop or tablespoon. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Once baked, let them cool slightly before assembling.

To serve, slice each shortcake in half horizontally and layer with those beautiful macerated strawberries and whipped cream. Don’t hold back—load them up! And there you have it—a dessert that screams summer celebration!

You Must Know

This easy strawberry shortcake recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness
Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress
With minimal ingredients, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make your easy strawberry shortcake shine, start by whipping the cream first to achieve perfect peaks. Then, bake the shortcakes while letting the strawberries macerate with sugar. This sequence ensures every element complements each other beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fun twist. You can also experiment with flavored whipped cream, adding vanilla or even a hint of citrus zest for an extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover shortcake components separately in airtight containers. The biscuits last up to three days, while the whipped cream should be used within two days for optimal freshness. Assemble just before serving for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor; frozen strawberries can become mushy
Make sure your whipped cream is chilled for better volume and stability
Lastly, don’t be shy with the sugar—sweet strawberries are key to a delicious dessert!

Creating this easy strawberry shortcake reminds me of that time my friends insisted on having a dessert competition. I brought this recipe, and let’s just say I was crowned the “Shortcake Queen” that day!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Easy Strawberry Shortcake?

To make an Easy Strawberry Shortcake, you will need fresh strawberries, sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. The strawberries provide a sweet and juicy flavor, while the shortcake is fluffy and tender. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness. This simple list ensures you have everything necessary for a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Strawberry Shortcake?

Preparing Easy Strawberry Shortcake takes about 30 minutes. This includes the time needed to wash and slice the strawberries, mix the cake batter, and bake it in the oven. After baking, allow the shortcake to cool slightly before assembling with whipped cream and strawberries. The quick preparation makes it an ideal dessert for gatherings or last-minute celebrations.

Can I make Easy Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Easy Strawberry Shortcake ahead of time! To do this, prepare the shortcakes and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Prepare the strawberries and whip the cream right before serving for the freshest taste. Assembling it just before serving keeps the shortcake from becoming soggy and ensures a delightful experience.

What variations can I try with Easy Strawberry Shortcake?

There are many variations you can try with Easy Strawberry Shortcake! You can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries for different flavors. Additionally, consider adding layers of chocolate or using flavored whipped cream to enhance the dessert. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion for Easy Strawberry Shortcake:

In summary, Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that combines fresh strawberries with fluffy shortcake and creamy whipped topping. With simple ingredients and quick preparation time, this recipe is perfect for any gathering or celebration. Feel free to customize it with different berries or flavors according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this classic treat that brings joy to every table!

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