Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With fresh strawberries bursting with flavor, sweet cream, and fluffy biscuit-like shortcakes, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend dessert, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and impress your family and friends.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 365
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 265mg

Why Make This Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert that’s not only simple to make but also incredibly refreshing. The joy of preparing this dish lies in using fresh strawberries, allowing their natural sweetness to shine. The shortcake is light and airy, providing a perfect base for the juicy strawberries and rich whipped cream. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a sweet treat at the end of a family dinner. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt for various dietary needs or flavor preferences.

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

You’ll find the process easy and enjoyable. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:

2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup sugar (for strawberries)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar (for shortcakes)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar. Set aside to macerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the strawberries to release their juices and become sweet and syrupy.
Step 2: Mixing

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Making the Dough

Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This method helps to create a flaky texture. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined.
Step 4: Shaping and Baking

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Pat it into a 1-inch thick round and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter. Place the rounds on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Cooling and Assembling

Allow the shortcakes to cool slightly before slicing them in half. Layer each shortcake with macerated strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Serve your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake fresh out of the oven, still warm, and filled with juicy strawberries and whipped cream. This dessert is best enjoyed immediately to experience the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Store Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Store leftover shortcake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the macerated strawberries separate to avoid making the shortcake soggy. If you plan to store the whipped cream, put it in a separate container. The shortcakes can also be frozen for up to a month; when ready to enjoy, simply thaw and fill with strawberries and cream.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones, but thaw and drain them before use.
For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the shortcake mixture or the macerated strawberries.
If you prefer a sweeter cream, you can add powdered sugar to the whipped cream as you whip it.
Make sure your butter is very cold to ensure a flaky texture in your shortcakes.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake: Mix cocoa powder into the shortcake dough for a chocolaty twist.
Almond Strawberry Shortcake: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shortcake ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the shortcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Assemble them right before serving for the best texture.
How do I know when the shortcakes are done? The shortcakes should be golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Can I use other fruits besides strawberries? Absolutely! You can substitute with raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or any seasonal fruit you enjoy.
Why did my shortcakes come out tough? Overmixing can cause the gluten in the flour to develop, leading to tough shortcakes. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Conclusion

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you can enjoy the sweet taste of summer in no time. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or indulging on a quiet night at home, this recipe is a must-try. So grab some fresh strawberries and get ready to create a dessert that will bring smiles to the whole family!