Delightful Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake

There's something undeniably charming about a classic strawberry shortcake. This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the fluffy goodness of a perfectly baked shortcake. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, a strawberry shortcake is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients. For the shortcake, you will need flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Don't forget the star of the show: fresh strawberries, and of course, whipped cream for that luscious finishing touch.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• Whipped cream for serving

Preparing the Shortcake

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently. Roll it to about 1-inch thickness and use a round cutter to shape individual shortcakes. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Preparing the Strawberries

While the shortcakes are baking, it's time to prep the strawberries. Slice them and place in a bowl, sprinkling with a bit of sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to develop.

Assembling Your Delightful Dessert

Once your shortcakes are baked and slightly cooled, it's time for assembly. Split each shortcake in half and layer with a generous helping of strawberries. Add a dollop of whipped cream before placing the top half of the shortcake back on.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious strawberry shortcake is best served fresh. For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing with mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for a perfect summer treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding other berries or even incorporating some citrus zest into the shortcake batter for a zesty twist. It's a delightful dessert that celebrates fresh ingredients and classic flavors.

Enjoy making this delightful strawberry shortcake and indulge in its sweet simplicity. It's sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!