Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake
If you’ve ever wanted to create a classic dessert that’s both simple and delicious, my strawberry shortcake recipe is just what you need. Join me as I guide you through each step, from preparing fresh strawberries to baking golden, fluffy shortcakes. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.
In this blog post, I’ll share my time-tested method for macerating strawberries to enhance their flavor and texture. We’ll also dive into crafting the perfect biscuit-like shortcakes by hand, ensuring every bite is filled with tender layers and a satisfying crunch. Let’s get started on this culinary journey to creating a strawberry shortcake that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Strawberries: 1 1/2 pounds (about 680 grams), fresh, washed, hulled, and sliced
- Flour: 4 cups (about 480 grams)
- Sugar: 1/4 cup (about 50 grams) for the biscuits, plus 1/3 cup (about 67 grams) for macerating the strawberries, and 3 tablespoons (about 38 grams) for whipped cream
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (about 5 grams)
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks or about 226 grams), cold, cut into small pieces
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (240 mL), cold
- Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup (60 mL) for the biscuits, plus 2 cups (480 mL) for whipped cream
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
Preparation
Begin by macerating the strawberries with sugar to enhance their flavor and texture, while preheating your oven to 425°F for perfectly golden biscuits.
Biscuit Preparation
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder, then incorporate cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk, heavy cream, and egg until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
Baking
Shape the dough into a thick disc and cut out biscuits using a round cutter. Place them on a baking sheet, brush with cream, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 15 minutes until beautifully risen and golden brown.
Whipped Cream
Whip cold heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form, ensuring not to overmix for a velvety texture.
Assembly
Once cooled, slice the biscuits horizontally and generously layer with whipped cream and macerated strawberries. Top with more whipped cream and a fresh strawberry for a picture-perfect finish.
Conclusion
Savor the delightful combination of creamy whipped topping, sweet strawberries, and buttery biscuits in this homemade Strawberry Shortcake. It’s a dessert that embodies simplicity and elegance, perfect for sharing joy with friends and family.