Easy Strawberry Shortcake Clara quick dinners

Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a timeless dessert featuring sweet, juicy strawberries layered between tender homemade biscuits and fluffy whipped cream. It’s a classic recipe that celebrates the freshness of seasonal berries, perfect for spring and summer or any time you want a simple, delicious treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple Comes together in under an hour with pantry staples.
• Fresh Flavor Uses real strawberries for a naturally sweet and tangy filling.
• Customizable Perfect with other berries or toppings like lemon zest or chocolate.
• Great for Entertaining A visually appealing dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Strawberries:

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ⅔ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Macerate the Strawberries
   In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with ½ cup sugar. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes until they release their juices.
2. Make the Biscuits
   • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   • Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in milk and vanilla just until combined.
   • Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently knead a few times, then pat into a ¾-inch thick circle.
   • Cut into 6 rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass. Place on baking sheet and bake for 1215 minutes or until golden. Cool slightly on a wire rack.
3. Make the Whipped Cream
   In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble the Shortcakes
   • Slice each biscuit in half.
   • Layer the bottom half with strawberries and juices, then top with whipped cream.
   • Place the biscuit top over the cream and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Biscuit: Add lemon zest to the biscuit dough for extra brightness.
• Berry Mix: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for variety.
• Chocolate Touch: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or drizzle chocolate sauce before serving.
• Coconut Cream: Use whipped coconut cream as a dairy-free topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store biscuits in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days. Strawberries and whipped cream should be refrigerated.
• Reheating: Warm biscuits in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prep components separately and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought biscuits?

Yes, but homemade biscuits add more flavor and a tender texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

You can, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. Thaw and drain well before using.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk and butter, and replace whipped cream with coconut whipped topping.

How do I make the whipped cream more stable?

Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or use a stabilizer like gelatin.

Do I have to macerate the strawberries?

Macerating enhances flavor and creates a syrupy sauce, but it’s optional.

What other fruits work well in this recipe?

Peaches, blackberries, and blueberries all pair beautifully with shortcakes.

How can I make gluten-free shortcakes?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I freeze the biscuits?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled biscuits in a zip-top bag. Reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have a biscuit cutter?

Use a glass or shape the dough into squares and cut with a knife.

Can I make mini shortcakes?

Yes, cut smaller biscuits and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

Conclusion

Easy Strawberry Shortcake is a fresh, fuss-free dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With buttery biscuits, juicy berries, and creamy whipped topping, it’s the kind of recipe that feels both homey and elegant. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this sweet classic never disappoints.

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