Strawberry Shortcake is a classic and delightful dessert that combines tender biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream to create a sweet and summery treat. Learn how to make this iconic dessert that is perfect for warm weather gatherings and family celebrations.
Strawberry Shortcake is a beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. With its light and fluffy biscuits, juicy strawberries, and billowy whipped cream, it’s no wonder why this sweet treat is a favorite among both kids and adults.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a simple family dinner, Strawberry Shortcake is a wonderful way to celebrate the sweetness of summer and the joy of fresh strawberries.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Strawberry Shortcake step-by-step. From baking the biscuits to assembling the layers of this delightful dessert, you’ll learn how to create a scrumptious Strawberry Shortcake that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Table of Contents
- What is Strawberry Shortcake?
- The Irresistible Sweetness of Summer
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Preparation
- Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What is Strawberry Shortcake?
Strawberry Shortcake is a classic dessert made with tender and crumbly biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. The biscuits serve as the base for the dessert, providing a delicious and slightly sweet backdrop for the juicy and sweet strawberries.
When combined with the airy whipped cream, Strawberry Shortcake offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that make it a timeless and irresistible treat.
The Irresistible Sweetness of Summer
Strawberry Shortcake is often associated with summertime, as it showcases the best of the season’s fresh strawberries. The bright red berries, bursting with sweetness, are the star of the dessert and add a refreshing and vibrant touch to every bite.
Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer cookout, a family reunion, or simply as a special treat, Strawberry Shortcake embodies the essence of summer and the simple pleasures of enjoying seasonal fruits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this sweet and summery Strawberry Shortcake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (240g) of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup (180ml) of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 cups (600g) of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream (for whipped cream)
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cold and cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the cream mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick.
- Using a round biscuit cutter or a drinking glass, cut out biscuits from the dough. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- While the biscuits are baking, prepare the strawberries by tossing them with granulated sugar in a bowl. Let them sit for a few minutes to macerate and release their juices.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form to make the whipped cream.
- To assemble the Strawberry Shortcake, split the baked biscuits in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of macerated strawberries over the bottom half of each biscuit. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and then place the other half of the biscuit on top.
- Serve the Strawberry Shortcakes immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
- Make sure the butter for the biscuits is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky and tender texture.
- Do not overwork the biscuit dough; knead it gently and only a few times to prevent toughness.
- For the best results, use fresh and ripe strawberries for the macerated topping.
- Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice to the macerated strawberries for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can use a variety of fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to create different versions of the Shortcake.
2. Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the biscuits ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
3. How do I store leftover Strawberry Shortcake?
If you have any leftover Strawberry Shortcake, store the biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the dessert just before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that celebrates the sweetness of summer and the joy of fresh strawberries. With its tender biscuits, juicy strawberries, and billowy whipped cream, this classic treat is perfect for any warm weather gathering or family celebration.