Fall in Love with the Easiest Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Fall in Love with the Easiest Strawberry Shortcake Recipe and discover why this timeless treat continues to capture hearts across generations. Imagine tender, buttery shortcakes layered with juicy strawberries and billowy whipped cream—each bite is a symphony of sweet, tart, and creamy perfection. This dessert is more than just a quick indulgence; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor that brings joy to every table. Whether you’re planning a summer gathering, a cozy weekend bake, or simply craving something nostalgic, this recipe is designed to be foolproof, approachable, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable flavor – Sweet strawberries paired with rich cream and buttery shortcakes.
• Quick and easy – Ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for last-minute desserts.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter.
• Customizable – Works with fresh or frozen strawberries, different fruits, or even gluten-free flour.
• Crowd-pleaser – From kids to adults, this classic strawberry shortcake dessert never fails.
• Perfect texture – Crumbly yet tender shortcakes that soak up strawberry juices.
• Versatile serving – Dress it up for parties or keep it rustic for family nights.
• Guaranteed success – Clear steps ensure even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make the best strawberry shortcake recipe at home:

• 1 ½ pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – The star ingredient. Macerating them with sugar draws out their juices and intensifies flavor.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for berries) – Helps create a natural strawberry syrup.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for your homemade strawberry shortcake. Can be swapped for gluten-free flour blends.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for dough) – Adds sweetness without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Ensures rise and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – Creates flaky layers in the shortcakes.
• ⅔ cup whole milk – Moistens the dough. Almond or oat milk works for dairy-free options.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold – Essential for that iconic strawberry shortcake with whipped cream.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream lightly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream) – Completes the flavor profile.

💡 Pro tip: Always use cold butter when making biscuits or shortcakes to ensure a tender crumb.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Strawberries
   • Place sliced strawberries in a bowl, sprinkle with sugar, and stir gently.
   • Let sit for at least 30 minutes to release juices—this creates the syrupy topping.
2. Prepare the Shortcakes
   • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   • Add cold butter pieces and cut in using a pastry cutter or fingers until crumbly.
   • Stir in milk and vanilla until just combined. Do not overmix.
   • Drop large spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making 6 rustic shortcakes.
3. Bake to Golden Perfection
   • Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
   • Allow to cool for 10 minutes before assembling.
4. Whip the Cream
   • In a chilled bowl, beat cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
   • Avoid over-beating, which can turn cream into butter.
5. Assemble the Shortcakes
   • Split shortcakes in half with a fork.
   • Layer with strawberries, juices, and whipped cream.
   • Cap with the top half, add more cream and strawberries, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

How do you keep shortcakes tender?

Handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing. Cold butter and minimal handling create the perfect crumb.

Can I make strawberry shortcake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake shortcakes a day early and store in an airtight container. Assemble with strawberries and cream just before serving.

What’s the best way to cut strawberries?

Slice them evenly to ensure consistent flavor in each bite. A serrated knife works best to avoid squishing.

Best Ways to Serve

• Pair with a glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches for a seasonal twist.
• Crosslink suggestion: Try alongside Peach Sorbet or Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls from our collection.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 220mg

Storage & Leftovers

• Shortcakes – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Whipped cream – Best used immediately but can be refrigerated for 24 hours.
• Strawberries – Refrigerate macerated berries for 2–3 days.
• Reheating – Warm shortcakes in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid before sweetening.

What’s the difference between shortcake and sponge cake?

Shortcake is biscuit-like with a crumbly texture, while sponge cake is soft and airy.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use whipped topping instead of cream?

You can, but homemade whipped cream has superior taste and texture.

How do I avoid soggy shortcakes?

Assemble just before serving to keep the texture crisp and fresh.

Variations

• Southern style – Serve with buttermilk biscuits.
• Chocolate lovers – Add cocoa powder to the shortcake dough.
• Low-sugar option – Sweeten strawberries with honey or monk fruit.
• Vegan version – Use coconut cream and plant-based milk.
• Regional twist – In the UK, try with clotted cream instead of whipped cream.

Conclusion & Social CTA

Fall in Love with the Easiest Strawberry Shortcake Recipe and rediscover the magic of this timeless dessert. Its balance of juicy berries, airy cream, and buttery shortcakes creates a dessert that feels both nostalgic and excitingly fresh. Share it with friends, whip it up for family gatherings, or keep it as your go-to indulgence when cravings strike.

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