When it comes to desserts that are both simple and satisfying, few can compete with the timeless classic: strawberry shortcake. With its fluffy biscuits, sweetened strawberries, and rich whipped cream, this dessert is a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving something delicious, strawberry shortcake has the ability to brighten any day. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make at home!
Amazing Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Video by Preppy Kitchen
<h3>The Key Ingredients</h3>
The beauty of strawberry shortcake lies in its simplicity. The main ingredients include fresh strawberries, heavy cream, sugar, and flour. These pantry staples come together to create a dessert that feels special without being overly complicated. Here's what you'll need:
2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup of sugar, for sweetening the strawberries
2 cups of all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1/4 cup of sugar, for the biscuit dough
1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter
1/2 cup of milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
The combination of sweetened strawberries and fluffy biscuit layers is what makes this dessert truly irresistible. Let's break down how to prepare it!
<h3>How to Make Strawberry Shortcake</h3>
To start, we need to prepare the strawberries. Hull and slice the strawberries, then mix them with 1/2 cup of sugar. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes so the sugar can draw out the natural juices, creating a delicious syrup. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the dessert.
Next, we move on to the biscuit base. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and sugar. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is what will give the biscuits their light, flaky texture.
Add the milk (or buttermilk) and mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the biscuits dense. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Using a biscuit cutter or a round glass, cut out rounds of dough and place them onto a baking sheet. Bake the biscuits at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
While the biscuits are baking, we can prepare the whipped cream. Simply whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will give you a light and fluffy topping that contrasts perfectly with the sweet strawberries and buttery biscuits.
<h3>Assembling the Strawberry Shortcake</h3>
Once the biscuits have cooled slightly, it's time to assemble the shortcake! Slice each biscuit in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom. Place a generous spoonful of the sweetened strawberries on the bottom half of each biscuit, ensuring there's plenty of juice to soak into the biscuit. Then, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the strawberries. Finally, place the top half of the biscuit on the whipped cream and finish with a few more strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for garnish.
The result is a dessert that's both beautiful and delicious—a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and texture.
<h3>Why Strawberry Shortcake is Perfect for Any Occasion</h3>
One of the best things about strawberry shortcake is its versatility. It's an ideal dessert for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a casual family dinner. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream makes it feel light and refreshing, yet indulgent enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Furthermore, strawberry shortcake can be easily customized to fit different dietary preferences. For a healthier twist, try substituting whole wheat flour for the all-purpose flour, or use a dairy-free whipped topping. You can even try adding other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to the strawberries for a mixed berry version.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, strawberry shortcake is a dessert that anyone can master. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and unbeatable taste, it's no wonder that this dessert has stood the test of time. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a homemade strawberry shortcake today? You'll enjoy every bite of this classic dessert that never goes out of style.
