Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
This Fresh Strawberry Shortcake Recipe is a light, sweet and fruity dessert perfect for spring and summer. It features soft, fluffy shortcakes layered with juicy strawberries and whipped cream. Many people love this dessert because it is simple to make yet looks and tastes elegant.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Sugar
- Salt
- Unsalted butter cold and cubed
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
- Strawberries sliced
- Powdered sugar for macerating strawberries
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash and slice the strawberries. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and set aside for at least 10 minutes to release juices.
Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for the shortcakes.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to mix evenly.
Cut in Butter
- Add cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Milk and Vanilla
- Pour in milk and vanilla extract. Stir gently until dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
Shape the Shortcakes
- Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape into rounds about 2 inches thick.
Bake the Shortcakes
- Bake in preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly on a wire rack.
Whip the Cream
- In a bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Sweeten lightly if desired.
Assemble the Shortcakes
- Slice shortcakes in half horizontally. Place the bottom half on a serving plate.
Layer Strawberries
- Spoon macerated strawberries over the bottom half. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top.
Top the Cake
- Place the top half of the shortcake over the cream and strawberries. Add more cream and strawberries on top.
Garnish and Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with mint leaves for a fresh presentation. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use the freshest strawberries for the juiciest flavor.
- Let strawberries sit with sugar for 10–15 minutes to macerate.
- Cold butter ensures the shortcake is flaky.
- For a lighter version, use whipped coconut cream.
- Add lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, bright flavor.
- You can slice the shortcakes thinner for individual portions.
- For extra richness, add a drizzle of strawberry syrup or chocolate sauce.